18/09/2026
Using legumes to improve our rice fields
This year, our Rice Program farmers are trying a simple way to improve their rice fields by growing Crotalaria ochroleuca, a legume used as a cover crop.
Across 6 hectares, the legumes were planted at the end of April. After about two months, they were ploughed into the soil and left for 15 days before the rice was planted.
The aim is to improve soil quality and, in turn, improve rice yields.
We are also looking ahead. For the first time, one farmer has planted 2 hectares to produce legume seed for future use. The expected harvest is around 800–1,000 kg, which could provide a significant share of the seed needed by our rice farmers in the coming years.
The farmer will sell the seed through the local Agriculture Cooperative, creating an additional income opportunity. The remaining plant material can also be returned to the soil as organic fertiliser.
TGF is helping connect the farmer with potential buyers and markets, with the longer-term goal of making legume seed more affordable and available to local farmers.
A small change in the field that could help farmers build healthier soils, improve rice production and create an additional source of income.