What was Old is now new again.

As with many eco initiatives, Cover crops (or fallow season plantings), were first used during the Roman Empire as a way to boost the soil quality in vineyards. the practice was relatively common from the 1860s through the 1950s before it was replaced by synthetic fertilizers and different crop management techniques. Cover cropping is described a means of increasing soil fertility without chemicals, they are usually sown to maintain or improve the quality of the soil. Cover crops can suppress weeds, prevent nitrate leaching and reduce erosion by rain and wind. But Farmers must be aware that there can be an additional expense and competition with cash crops. Read more here