crop rotation

American  

noun

1. the system of varying successive crops in a definite order on the same ground, especially to avoid depleting the soil and to control weeds, diseases, and pests.

---

crop rotation British  

noun

1. the system of growing a sequence of different crops on the same ground so as to maintain or increase its fertility

---

Etymology

Origin of crop rotation

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

“Their work was always about more than crops. It was about empowerment and survival. Bloom Ranch embodies that legacy, honoring and applying practices like Carver’s crop rotation and soil health techniques.”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026

Corn planted in average soil with a typical corn-soybean crop rotation is projected to lose nearly $150 an acre, while soybeans planted in a normal rotation are seen losing almost $90 an acre.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 26, 2026

However, one often-overlooked way to ensure long-term success is raspberry crop rotation.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 3, 2024

To help restore soil, some farmers have turned to "regenerative agriculture," which uses a variety of strategies, including crop rotation and composting, to keep soil healthy.

From Science Daily • Nov. 15, 2023

Apparently, even in this time, planters practiced some form of crop rotation.

From "Kindred" by Octavia Butler