Integration of the leguminous velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens) cover crop in coffee and banana systems

Velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens) and greenleaf desmodium (Desmodium intortum) cover crops have been shown to contribute to improve soil health [e.g. increase soil earthworm populations, soil aeration) and restore farm productivity and incomes. These cover crops are shade- and drought-tolerant, fast-growing and fix nitrogen into the soils. The high biomass reduces soil erosion, moderate soil temperature and moisture, and reduce weed burden on farm. These cover crops are currently being scaled in eastern DR Congo, covering over 80 ha of smallholder coffee systems and benefiting over 8000 individuals. This video captures success stories due to the use of the cover crops on station and on farm in eastern DR Congo and will serve as a tool for transforming the mindset of farmers during scaling of the innovation. The video is an updated version of a similar video [https://youtu.be/7yiAo1vgcUY] prepared in 2024.