Why did farmers let some fields lie fallow?

to reduce the surplus of crops

to reduce the surplus of crops

to bring new land under cultivation

to bring new land under cultivation

to increase the soil's productivity

to increase the soil's productivity

to allow serfs to grow their own food

1 answer

Farmers let some fields lie fallow primarily to increase the soil's productivity. By allowing fields to rest without planting crops, the soil could recover its nutrients, leading to better yields in subsequent planting seasons. Additionally, this practice helps to prevent soil depletion and maintain overall soil health, which is crucial for sustainable farming.