green manure

green manure

noun

Definition of GREEN MANURE

: an herbaceous crop (as clover) plowed under while green to enrich the soil

— green–manure transitive verb

First Known Use of GREEN MANURE

1842

green manure

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Crop grown and plowed under for its beneficial effects to the soil and subsequent crops, though during its growth it may be grazed. These crops are usually annuals, either grasses or legumes. They add nitrogen to the soil, increase the general fertility level, reduce erosion, improve the physical condition of the soil, and reduce nutrient loss from leaching. They are usually planted in the fall and turned under in the spring before the summer crop is sown. See also cover crop.