Research project Legumes: indispensable element in agro-ecological crop systems for food production

General introduction

The Leg-O project investigated how legumes such as field beans, yellow peas, and red kidney beans can play a greater role in Flemish agricultural systems and human nutrition. By incorporating these crops into rotations with grain crops, the project aimde to increase biodiversity, improve nitrogen use efficiency, and enhance the sustainability of farms. In addition, the project sought to contribute to the development of local protein supply chains, so that more domestically produced plant-based proteins reach consumers.

Research approach

Multi-year field trials were established under both organic and conventional conditions. The yield potential and quality of the investigated legumes was examined, together with the 'legacy effects' of their cultivation on subsequent crops such as wheat and barley. In addition, strip cropping was evaluated in terms of yield, disease and pest incidence, soil quality, and biodiversity. The research results were supplemented with farmers’ practical experiences, economic analyses, and a life-cycle analysis of various crop rotation systems.

Relevance/Valorization

Leg-O demonstrated the added value of integrating grain legumes into Flemish crop rotations. Among other findings, the project showed that cereals grown after legumes delliver higher yields and require lower nitrogen fertilization rates. Demonstrations, grower networks, workshops, cultivation guides, and an online knowledge platform were used to disseminate this knowledge to farmers, students, processors, and policymakers. In addition, the project produced practical tools, including an economic calculation tool for protein crops and generated insights to support the further development of local protein supply chains. Leg-O was funded through “EU Blue Deal” funds (VLAIO).

Financing

VLAIO