Planting a Cover Crop

PSU Solution Source (5016)

Cover crops, also called green manure crops, add valuable organic matter to garden soils. The roots of cover crops help loosen tight clay soils. They also help to prevent soil erosion during the fall and winter months. Cover crops are usually sown in September and October after the last crops are harvested. They can also be undersown in walkways and around garden plants in late August or early September.

Winter rye, also known as cereal rye, is one of the most cold tolerant cover crops. Other good choices for fall planting include, winter oats, hairy vetch, rapeseed and turnip greens. A sowing rate of 2 ounces of seed per 100 sq. ft. is recommended. Prepare a firm and fertile seedbed prior to planting. To distribute seeds evenly mix them with soil, compost or sand, before sowing. Rake or walk over the seedbed to press seeds into the soil and water as needed to promote good germination.

In the early spring mow and turn under the cover crop at least two weeks before planting.

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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