Need cover crop recommendations

[curly_kate]

I would like to plant something in the space where my sweet corn has just finished. I know it's a heavy feeder, so I'd like to replenish the soil for the spring. I'm thinking a legume, and I'd like something that won't be a pain in the spring. I've done winter peas before with rye grass, but the rye grass was really annoying when I had to keep pulling it up. Can I just do the winter peas on their own?

 

[Neko-Chan]

You can grow things like clover and rye grass, but instead of pulling it up, I think you're supposed to till it under, then mulch. It returns the nitrogen and stuff back into the soil. Raising a crop of snow peas or something will probably help as well.

 

[momofdrew]

I have used buckwheat and clover just till it in

 

[digitS']

. . . Can I just do the winter peas on their own?

I have done that. The winter peas had a winter survival rate of about 10%, I figured. Certainly, not more than that. They must really not be suitable for sub-zero temperatures.

Oats will also grow and then be killed by winter cold.

You may have an easier time with winter rye if you plant it really early. I decided that July was best. It grew waist-high by spring!

I pulled it, dug out the bed and buried it under 8" to 10" of soil. (Okay, I don't know if that would be "easier" but I got it out of the way, all at once .

Steve

 

[lesa]

I really enjoyed using winter wheat. First thing in the spring it was bright green- a sight for sore eyes! We tilled it in. I have red clover that I hope to try this year.

 

[hoodat]

I run my red clover through a rabbit first. Great little instant composters.

 

[momofdrew]

I run my red clover through a rabbit first. Great little instant composters.

 

[wsmoak]

I am (finally) going to try hairy vetch this year to grow over the winter/early spring and then either till in or just flatten and plant into it. -Wendy

 

[curly_kate]

Great tips! Thanks!

 

[GreeneGarden]

Fava also works well

http://www.gardenfornutrition.org/