Monocropping/Monoculture

Definition

Monocropping, also known as monoculture, is the agricultural practice of growing a single crop year after year on the same land.

Analogy

Think of your favorite song. Now imagine listening to that song and only that song every day for a year. That's like monocropping - it's doing the same thing over and over again, which can lead to problems like soil depletion and increased vulnerability to pests.

Related terms

Crop Rotation: This is an agricultural technique where different types of crops are planted in the same area in sequential seasons to improve soil health and reduce pest pressure.

Polyculture: This is the opposite of monoculture. It involves growing multiple crops in the same space, which mimics natural ecosystems and can be more sustainable.

Sustainable Agriculture: This refers to farming practices that are environmentally friendly, economically viable, and socially just. It often involves techniques like crop rotation and polyculture instead of monocropping.