Which one of the following plants is used for green manuring in India ?

Green manuring is a sustainable agricultural practice involving the incorporation of fresh plant material into the soil to enhance fertility. In India, Sunhemp (Crotalaria juncea) is one of the most important and widely used green manure crops [1][t1]. It is a fast-growing leguminous plant that fixes atmospheric nitrogen and produces significant biomass, which improves soil organic carbon levels [t2][t6]. Sunhemp is particularly valued for its ability to reclaim saline-alkaline soils and is often grown before paddy transplantation [c2][t2]. Other common green manure crops in India include Dhaincha (Sesbania aculeata), cowpea, and cluster beans [t1][t5]. In contrast, wheat, cotton, and rice are primary food or fiber crops rather than dedicated green manure crops, although rice often benefits from the preceding incorporation of Sunhemp or Dhaincha to boost yields [c2][t4].

Sources

1. [1] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 6: Environmental Degradation and Management > iv) Green Manuring > p. 20