Book 29, Question 113
What are cover crops?
Cover crops are plants like clover, rye, or buckwheat that are grown to protect and feed the soil rather than to harvest.
Their roots hold soil in place and loosen it. Some, like clover, add nitrogen. When they are cut down and mixed into the soil in spring, they feed it and are called green manure. Planting a cover crop in autumn keeps the bed from being bare.
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Quick answers
What are cover crops?
One way to amend garden soils that requires minimum effort is to plant a green manure cover crop.
Recommended spring cover crops include alfalfa, clovers, peas, and vetches.
More fun facts
- Summer cover crops, such as buckwheat, can be used to revitalize garden soil that needs to rest during the growing season.
- Cover crops are typically grown until they flower, at which point they are cut or mowed.
Sources: Oregon State University