Cover crops, also known as gap crops or intermittent crops, are planted to improve, control and manage soil quality, fertility, moisture, weeds, diseases, wildlife and biodiversity in agroecosystem. These have been proved very effective for enhancing the richness of soil which decreases with regular plantation. Intermittent crop adds nitrogen to the soil and maintains its level. It prevents the erosion also. These are tilled in soil to provide feed for underground essential worms. Gap crops are used not only in large size farms but for small sized gardens also.

The significant betterment in the next main crop is experienced by almost all the cover crop planters. Ongoing agricultural research studies have identified many cover crops. Each has its own properties. Hence, the selection of best gap crop becomes very crucial. Clover, Winter Rye, Alfalfa and Vetch etc are more popular among the farmers and gardening lovers. Each of these serves unique purposes. One gap crop cant take the place of other crop.

Clover crop makes the much needed lawn replacement. It germinates even in shaded areas. It is good for compact soil. It absorbs less moisture in comparison to other gap crops. If you are planning to prepare a vegetable garden in your house, use it. You will notice fantastic growth. Clover grows as vegetable wane. It is categorized as winter period intermittent crop. Clover is planted during October September period but it is not a hard line because much depends upon the local weather conditions. It comes in white and red two varieties; however, red clover is liked more.

The other popular cover crops is Vetch that is planted during fall season and becomes ready by spring. It has fuzzy leaves like those of vine. It looks beautiful because of its blue flowers. Hairy vetch crop has shallow root system. It is considered good for excessive cold weather conditions. It is good for sandy and drained soil. If it remains in the field even after the spring, it may absorb the moisture from soil increasing your irrigation requirement.

Winter rye is other widely used gap crop. Rye is good source of nitrogen for soil. It has large roots system that breaks up even the hard soil. Rye tolerates low temperatures and can be grown in poor soil also. Alfalfa too can breaks up hard soil and the roots may go deeps up to 15 feet or more. It grows well during warm weather. Besides delivering rich dose of nitrogen, Rye delivers calcium and protein also.

If you less experienced with cover crops make the switch over under experts guidance.