Four-field rotation system

Crop Rotation: Crop rotation is a basic principle underlying both medieval two-field and modern four-field systems. It involves growing different types of crops in the same area in sequenced seasons to improve soil fertility and crop yield.

Fallow: Fallow is a farming practice where land is left unplanted for a period of time so that it can recover its fertility. It was commonly used in the two-field system but less so in the four-field system.

Nitrogen-fixing crops: Nitrogen-fixing crops, such as peas, beans, and clover, were often included in the four-field rotation because they naturally add nitrogen to the soil, improving its fertility.