What Ground Cover to Use>

Tractor Seabee · Jun 7, 2014

We got off to a late start on the garden and have several areas that will not be planted till next year.

What is the best ground cover to plant now and then later for the winter? Criteria:

up to 12" tall
No invasive root structure
nitrogen producer if possible
Suitable for our cool nights, mild days, and damp weather

Ron

Jstpssng · Jun 7, 2014

On this side of the continent I plant buckwheat or oats through the summer, till it under, then plant winter rye in Sept or Oct.

Birdhunter1 · Jun 7, 2014

Your soil is likely very different from mine, but a late summer or early fall planting of Turnips, Clover and Wheat will do wonders.
When growing:
The Turnips develop a deep taproot and help break compaction.
The clover will add alot of nitrogen to the soil.
The wheat will develop roots that will aid in reducing erosion.
If you can add manure prior to planting.
Next Spring:
Add 2" or more of manure/compost and plow it all under, the wheat stubble will help hold water and combined with the clover and turnips will add organic matter to the soil.

That works in my area to make the garden grow.

randy41 · Jun 7, 2014

for summer you could plant some legumes like beans and their roots fixate nitrogen. then you can plow them in and plant what birdhunter1 suggests. what crop are you growing in the spring?

oosik · Jun 7, 2014

Ron,
There in W. WA plant some brand of peas and then this fall disk them in for added nitrogen. If you are ever inclined to add animal manure - go with cow not horse. Horse has a lot more weed seeds.
Peas will provide ground cover and added nitrogen.