Sustainable agriculture through legume-cereal intercropping
The LEGUMINOSE project provides science-based, farmer-led, and economically viable systems and techniques for legume-based intercropping.
What is intercropping?
Legume-cereal intercropping is an agricultural technique where legume crops (such as beans or peas) are planted alongside cereal crops (such as wheat or barley) in the same field.
Why?
Intercropping provides multiple benefits for sustainable agriculture:
Improves soil health and resilience to stresses
Increases biodiversity
Maximizes land productivity
Reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers
Reduces the carbon footprint of arable farming
Bridging across disciplines and nation borders to provide innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture.
21 organizations from 10 countries
We bring together agronomists, soil microbiologists, plant biologists, geoscientists, computer scientists, policy and communication experts to tackle pressing issues in the agri-food sector and make the most of our land in a sustainable manner.
News and events
“We need demonstration farms that act as positive examples for other farmers”: Norman Gentsch on spreading intercropping knowledge
Norman Gentsch from the LEGUMINOSE project discusses the role of demonstration farms for intercropping in promoting sustainable agriculture across Europe.
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“Intercropping gives us an opportunity to work with nature”: Jerry Alford on sustainable farming
Jerry Alford from the LEGUMINOSE project explains how intercropping addresses the challenges of monoculture farming.
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Intercropping in Spain: Insights from Spanish farmers
How are Spanish farmers adopting intercropping? Learn about their experiences, key challenges, and why they see potential in this sustainable practice.
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Intercropping in the UK: Field trial results
How does intercropping in the UK affect yields and farm profitability? The latest results from our 2024 field trials show increased land efficiency, higher crop resilience, and strong economic returns.
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“Coordinating research across Europe is an exciting challenge”: Magdalena Frąc on LEGUMINOSE
Healthy soils are the cornerstone of sustainable agriculture. LEGUMINOSE is dedicated to preserving and enhancing soil health through legume-cereal intercropping. In this interview, Magdalena Frąc, a leading agricultural scientist and
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Legume-cereal intercropping: Research insights on benefits, challenges and adoption strategies
Curious about grain legume-cereal intercropping? Our latest research reveals key benefits, challenges, and strategies for adoption. Learn how this practice can boost soil health, yields, and sustainability.
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“We will shift towards more plant-based diets”: Jim Rasmussen on the future of sustainable agriculture
Jim Rasmussen from the LEGUMINOSE project discusses the benefits of intercropping.
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“We are creating a two-way communication channel”: Shamina Imran Pathan on engaging farmers in LEGUMINOSE
Shamina Imran Pathan of the LEGUMINOSE project highlights the importance of two-way communication with farmers to promote legume-cereal intercropping.
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