As part of France’s Plant Protein Plan (2020), increasing grain legume cultivation can enhance protein autonomy while reducing synthetic nitrogen fertilizer dependency. Legumes contribute to soil fertility, improving yield and nitrogen efficiency in subsequent crops. However, the variability of these benefits across different species and environments remains insufficiently understood.
This pilot study will analyze nitrogen fluxes in the “grain legume – following crop” sequence to optimize nitrogen management and enhance ecosystem services.
Objectives:
- Establish the nitrogen response curve of wheat following grain legumes vs. non-legumes.
- Compare the pre-crop effects of different grain legume species on nitrogen availability.
- Quantify nitrogen flows in the cropping system, including soil, plant, and air compartments.
By providing data-driven insights, this study will support more efficient nitrogen use, helping farmers integrate legume-based rotations for sustainable, high-yield agriculture.