About DisCoverCrop

Challenging Potato Farming

Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is one of the top 5 food crops worldwide, with global production exceeding 350 million tonnes. In Europe, Germany, France, and the Netherlands collectively contribute 40% of the global harvest, achieving yields of up to 42 t/ha. However, the focus on short-term yields often leads to neglected sustainable practices, resulting in deteriorating soil health.

Current potato production systems rely heavily on mineral fertilizers, pesticides, intensive tillage, and short crop rotations. This causes reduced soil organic matter, diminished water holding capacity, compromised soil structure, and decreased biodiversity—ultimately risking long-term productivity and food security.

Why Cover Crops

Cover cropping emerges as a promising solution to address these challenges. Using cover crops during fallow periods provides continuous vegetative cover that:

• Prevents nutrient and organic carbon losses
• Counteracts soil erosion and compaction
• Increases soil biodiversity
• Mitigates disease pressure
• Improves long-term yields and harvest quality

A Project for Beginners and Experts

Our transnational approach brings together stakeholders from countries where few early adopters use cover crops (Estonia, Sweden) or where they are not yet used (Norway) with experienced users in the Netherlands and Germany. This exchange of knowledge and experiences drives innovation and accelerates the adoption of sustainable practices across different European potato production systems.