PLANTING LATE WINTER CROPS FOR SOIL AMMENDMENT
Fall is the time to plant cover crops but these same crops can be planted in late winter/early
spring as green manure. Wells Medina Nursery offers a selection of green manure seed
as well as floating row cover.
What is Green Manure?
Green Manure is the process of growing plants specifically for soil improvement, contributing
to the health of the garden.
What does Green Manure accomplish?
Green Manure suppresses weeds, adds organic matter to the soil, increases the
population of microorganisms, prevents soil erosion and helps control pests and diseases.
How is Green Manure planted?
In late winter or early spring, Green Manure seed can be broadcast as evenly as possible
over the bed. Lightly rake the area to just cover the seed with no more than 1/4" of soil.
A good sprinkling of water will soften the seeds and settle them.
Remay or a floating row cover is a light fabric used to protect newly planted seeds from
birds until germination.
Once the seedlings are 2" tall, remove the protective cloth.
In the spring when the soil can be easily worked, till or turn the soil with a garden fork.
If the cover crop flowers before turning, simply cut or mow them to prevent the plants
from going to seed.
What crops should be used?
Cereal Rye: also know as 'Winter Rye' germinates in cool temperatures and produces
much green matter. Tall size can support vines such as vetch.
Common Vetch: produces green matter and breaks down quickly. Spring nectar is a
source for beneficial insects.
Crimson Clover: does not multiply with runners like perennial Red Clover but instead
forms a dense green carpet and can 'fix' large amounts of nitrogen. Not suggested for
soggy or acidic soils.
Fava Beans or Fabas: 'fixes' large amounts of nitrogen and easy to till without tangling
tiller blades. Strong taproot can break up heavy or compacted soils. Decomposes
quickly and tolerates temporarily waterlogged soils.
Mixes: 3 Way Mix offers a combination of Rye, Vetch and Clover with the benefits of all
combined.