Covering Soil Uncovers Benefits

Increase the health of your fields by planting a crop and leaving it for an entire season. The benefits of cover crops have been publicized for years. Although they are grown primarily to prevent soil erosion, cover crops can also contribute to nitrogen production, increase soil microbial activity, reduce insect pests and suppress weeds.

Viewer Tip: Plant a winter cover crop in late summer or fall to provide soil cover during the winter. Legumes are often planted for the additional benefit of nitrogen fixation. The climate of your area should be taken into consideration when deciding which cover crop is best for you. You could also plant a catch crop after harvest to reduce nutrient leaching from the soil.

This information is provided by ATTRA – National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service. Learn more in “Overview of Cover Crops and Green Manures.”

Season: Fall


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