According to a socio-economic survey in the study region (data not published), Homegardens were characterized by a long term application of green manure when compared to Fields. In addition, some received organic composts and ash. However, Homegardens were spacious, and unshaded areas could easily be identified for comparison of short and long term effects of Gliricidia green manure in comparison to Fields. The impact of green manure on soil fertility in hilly, i.e. upland regions can be measured by soil traits, and indirectly by cultivating crops in a standardized way. In the major (Maha) rainy season maize is the principal upland cereal grain in the study region. Some farmers cultivate short duration legumes such as mungbean (Vigna radiata) in the minor (Yala) rainy season, as other longer term cops would suffer from drought conditions in this region.