Growing Non-GMO Organic 3 Brassica Classic Trio Cover Crop Seeds
This cover crop mix may be planted in the spring through early fall months to help improve soil quality. If intending to terminate via winter-killing, plant in the fall. Specifically, this mix helps reduce soil compaction, produces forage-friendly biomass, suppresses weeds, and improves water drainage. Plant up to 0.5 inches deep. It should be broadcast at a rate of 10 lbs per acre (1 lb per 4,356 square feet) or drilled at 8 lbs per acre (1 lb per 5,445 square feet). Clear the growing area of weeds before sowing for the best results. To broadcast, either throw by hand or use a spreader. To boost its biomass production, fertilize at planting. This cover crop should be grown for about 40-60 days before termination or expected fall frost of at least 28 F. The recommended termination methods can be found below.
* Cover crops are intended as an organic process to improve soil quality by being planted, terminated, and allowed to break down back into the soil before a crop or garden is grown the following season. If seeking an ornamental ground cover, we recommend using other flowering plants or lawn alternatives as cover crops are grown with the intention of being killed and returned to the soil.
Benefits of the Organic 3 Brassica Classic Trio Cover Crop
Reduce Soil Compaction - The deep taproot habit of these brassicas helps to alleviate compaction common in clay soils. Reducing soil compaction before planting your spring crops can encourage healthier crop growth. We highly recommend this mix for those using no-till practices as it can also winter-kill when sown in the late summer to fall season. We would also discourage deep tilling of clay soils before planting as this can disrupt soil structures formed through the cover crop growing process that aid water drainage for your upcoming crops.
Weed Suppression - To prevent weed growth between seasons, it is best to keep the soil covered. By planting the 3 Brassica Classic Trio cover crops in the late summer and fall seasons, you can suppress weeds and improve soil drainage in preparation for anticipated winter snow. As the spring months approach, thawing snow will have a better route to seep into the ground and make its way into ground water storage.
About the Organic 3 Brassica Classic Trio Cover Crop Seeds
This cover crop mix is forage-friendly and may be grazed once there is enough plant material produced. Early grazing may limit root growth. If this mix is grown for grazing, we recommend supplementing with additional roughage for a balanced diet.
This mix is not ideal for growing as a cover crop in southern states. Brassicas are cool-season crops and develop best in cool and temperate climates. This characteristic makes this mix great for sowing in the spring or fall months.
Terminating the Organic 3 Brassica Classic Trio Cover Crop
Winter Kill - All plants in this cover crop mix will winter-kill with temperatures below 28 F, making it a great option for fall planting. This process is friendly to no-till and organic growers.
Till or Turn Under - When grown in the spring or summer seasons, it is necessary to mow and till or turn under the cover crop before flowering. Be sure to allow at least 3 weeks before planting your garden or field to allow time for the cover crop to break down. Planting your main crops before the tilled cover crop has had time to break down may result in vital nutrients being “tied up” and unable to reach your developing seedlings.
Classic Trio Cover Crop Mix Seeds
Crop |
Scientific Name |
Percent of Mix |
Daikon Radish
|
Raphanus sativus |
40 |
Rapeseed (Canola)
|
Brassica napus |
30 |
Turnip
|
Brassica rapa |
30 |
Tips From Our Gardeners
"Whether your soils are heavy with clay, or more on the sandy side, this cover crop will help you make positive improvements by increasing the organic matter in your soils. Organic matter can help retain moisture longer, encourage healthy root development, and enable nutrient distribution to your growing plants. I love the fact that this mix will also winter-kill for easy termination when planted in the fall."
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- Ashleigh Smith, True Leaf Market Writer
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Organic 3 Brassica Classic Trio Cover Crop Seed Coverage:
- 1 oz - Wholesale - Covers Approximately 272 Square Feet
- 4 oz - Bulk Seeds - Covers Approximately 1,089 Square Feet
- 1 lb - Bulk Seeds - Covers Approximately 4,356 Square Feet
- 5 lb - Bulk Seeds - Covers Approximately 21,780 Square Feet
- 25 lb - Bulk Seeds - Covers Approximately 108,900 Square Feet
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Non-GMO Organic 3 Brassica Classic Trio Cover Crop seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.