After harvesting, many people leave the beds empty until spring. But bare soil is an open space for weeds to grow, erosion, and nutrient runoff. Instead, you can sow green manures – so-called “green fertilizers”. These are fast growing plants that protect and improve the soil.
In October, white mustard, oats, phacelia and lupine are excellent. Their seeds are simply scattered over the garden bed, lightly covered with a rake and watered if there is no rain. Within 2–3 weeks, seedlings appear, covering the soil, suppressing weeds and enriching the soil with nitrogen and organic matter.
In spring, such plants are not pulled out; they are mowed down and left on the surface as mulch or gently mixed with the soil. After 2–3 weeks, the soil becomes loose, warm and ready for planting without additional fertilizer.
This method was used by our grandmothers, and it still remains one of the most effective ways to care for soil without chemicals.
Question and answer:
What kind of green manure should I sow in the fall before winter?
Frost-resistant crops are suitable for sowing in October: white mustard, oats, phacelia, lupine, rapeseed and vetch. They manage to emerge before frost and protect the soil all winter.
Is it necessary to dig up green manure in the spring?
Not necessarily. They can be mowed and left on the surface as mulch. If they are buried in the soil, do this 2-3 weeks before planting the main crops so that they have time to rot.
Is it possible to sow green manure on clay soil?
Yes, and even recommended. Lupine and mustard loosen heavy soil with their deep roots, improving air and water permeability.
