What is the term for a close-growing crop planted to temporarily protect the soil surface from erosion?

The term "cover crop" refers specifically to a type of plant grown primarily to protect and enhance the quality of the soil. Cover crops are typically sown during the off-season when the main crops are not being cultivated. They play a crucial role in reducing soil erosion by providing ground cover that keeps the soil in place, thereby preventing runoff and minimizing the impact of wind and rain on soil degradation.

Additionally, cover crops contribute to improving soil health by enhancing organic matter, increasing nutrient cycling, and promoting biodiversity. They can absorb excess nutrients and help prevent soil depletion, making them an essential part of sustainable agricultural practices.

On the other hand, catch crops are usually implemented for quick growth to capture nutrients that might be lost from the soil. Intercropping involves growing two or more crops in proximity to maximize the use of resources and increase yields. Successional crops are those planted in sequence to ensure continuous cropping throughout a growing season, which does not specifically focus on erosion control.