Fallowing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fallowing

[ˈfæl.oʊ.ɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

agriculture term

The term 'fallowing' refers to the agricultural practice of leaving land uncultivated for a period of time to restore its fertility. Typically, fallowing occurs after a crop has been harvested to allow the soil to regain its nutrients without the depletion caused by continuous farming. This method can help prevent soil erosion and manages crop cycles more sustainably.

Synonyms

idle, resting, uncultivated.

Examples of usage

  • Farmers practice fallowing to replenish soil nutrients.
  • Fallowing can lead to a better yield in the next planting season.
  • Many sustainable farming methods include fallowing as a key practice.

Translations

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Origin of 'fallowing'

The term 'fallowing' originates from the Old English word 'fealg', which means 'to become a field'. It has evolved over time to pertain specifically to farmland that is left unseeded for a season. The practice dates back to ancient agriculture, where farmers recognized the need to allow fields to rest in order to maintain soil health. Fallowing was a common practice in various civilizations, including Roman agriculture, and it continued through the Middle Ages. Today, this sustainable farming technique is being revisited as a method to combat the challenges posed by modern agriculture, such as soil degradation and climate change. Fallowing is a critical aspect of permaculture and regenerative agriculture, emphasizing the importance of working with natural processes.