Raised Bed Builder Cover Crop Mix - Key Growing Information

Uses: A fast-growing cover crop that can be used to improve soil in raised beds or in a field setting. Clover and peas fix nitrogen while barley provides rapid biomass, weed suppression, and erosion control. Arugula contributes additional biomass and biofumigant properties that may benefit crop rotations. When planted in spring, the arugula may flower, allowing for late spring pollinator support.
Culture: Seed in the spring as soon as soil can be worked or in the fall up to six weeks before your first frost. Typically germinates in 5–10 days under adequate moisture and cool soil conditions. If drilling, sow seeds ¾–1" deep. If broadcasting, use the upper end of the seeding rate and roll or pack to press seed into the soil.
Seeding Rate: 1½–2 lb./1,000 sq.ft.; 60–70 lb./acre
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0 but is tolerant of less-than-ideal conditions.
Height: 24"
Termination: Till under while vegetative (prior to flowering) for a green manure. Once barley flowers, cover crop residue will be more difficult to till in. At this stage, crimp or mow to create a surface mulch, or wait 2–3 weeks after mowing to till cover crop reside into the soil. Tarping after mowing or crimping is an effective way to manage residue on a smaller scale. In cold climates, fall sowings will winterkill, allowing for easy residue incorporation in the spring.

Raised Bed Builder Cover Crop Mix - Key Growing Information

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