Using perennial plant varieties for use as living mulch for winter cereals. A review

Abstract Both from the environmental and economical perspective, reducing use of mineral nitrogen herbicides is one future challenges in cereal production. Growing winter cereals on perennial legume living mulch such as white clover ( Trifolium repens L.) or lucerne Medicago sativa several options to reduce need for fertilizer Given importance world, adopting this technique could greatly improve sustainability crop Through competition with however, can negatively affect yield. Here, we (i) review how be introduced system, (ii) synthetize potential advantages disadvantages that (iii) explore different strategies control between mulch. The major findings are lead significant yield reductions if not controlled properly varieties used so far bred forage We hypothesize a dedicated breeding program might smaller impact compared varieties, allowing grow reduced herbicide inputs. propose main characteristics an ideotype variety.