Crop Rotation

Rotation of annual crops is an essential aspect of soil management, it also helps in the control of pests, diseases, weeds, the maintenance of soil fertility, organic matter levels and soil structure

Organic gardening involves growing vegetables on a rotation of 3 to 5 years.

A typical three year rotation means splitting your vegetable growing area into 3 separate beds

1 Root crops - beetroot, carrots, parsnips and potatoes.

2 Brassicas - cabbage, cauliflower, kale, radish. Chinese greens and turnips.

3 Other Crops - beans, peas, leeks, onions, peas, tomatoes and celery.

The beds should be rotated as follows.

Plot	First Year	Second Year	Third Year
1	Other Crops	Brassicas	Root Crops
2	Root Crops	Other Crops	Brassicas
3	Brassicas	Root Crops	Other Crops

This can be expanded to a four year rotation by separating out potatoes and expanded further to a five year rotation by separating out legumes (beans, peas etc).

The healthier your soil the less you will have to adhere to strict crop rotational practises. Many gardeners who paractise companion planting will find that their gardening method all but eliminates the need for rotational gardening.