What are the best cover crops for soil improvement?
Written by
Paul Reynolds
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.The most effective cover crops for improving soil function are like underground architects rebuilding your field. Cereal rye establishes a deep root system that protects the soil from erosion. At the same time, hairy vetch adds nitrogen to the tired soil. Tillage radish breaks up compaction, allowing rainfall to penetrate deeper into the soil profile. I blended exhausted fields with these plants that "build" the soil.
Cereal Rye
- Erosion control champion with 6-foot roots anchoring soil
- Produces 3-4 tons biomass per acre enriching organic matter
- Winter-hardy down to -20°F (-29°C) for year-round protection
Hairy Vetch
- Fixes 150+ lb nitrogen per acre reducing fertilizer needs
- Flowers attract pollinators while suppressing weeds
- Winter-kills at 0°F (-18°C) creating natural mulch
Tillage Radish
- Pounds through compaction with 36-inch taproots
- Decomposes fast releasing nutrients quickly
- Creates channels improving water infiltration dramatically
Planting these soil builders on appropriate seasonal "windows" is critical. I like to drill cereal rye in September for winter coverage, while broadcasting hairy vetch before temperatures drop below freezing to allow it to grow in spring. Tillage radish requires 8-10 weeks before the hardest freeze of the winter to establish deep roots for nitrogen fixation. I time these with my cash crops harvesting as well.
Utilize species combinations for the best soil improvement. Pair cereal rye and hairy vetch for erosion control and nitrogen fixation. Bring in tillage radish to break up compacted areas. I create custom mixes tailored to fit each field. The surface layering provides more benefits to the soil than a monoculture planting.
Read the full article: 10 Best Cover Crops for Soil Health and Yield
