Sowing a green manure on bare soil in autumn is a great way to improve its structure and fertility. It prevents nutrients from being washed out of bare soil, deters weeds from germinating and improves soil structure.
Sown directly, the resulting young leafy plants are later dug back into the soil in spring, giving it a boost.
Discover how to sow green manure in just three steps, below.
You will need
- Green manure seed mix
- Soil rake
Step 1
Measure the area and work out the sowing rate according to the packet instructions. If sowing several varieties together mix well for the best results.
Step 2
Scatter the seeds over prepared soil.
Step 3
Rake the seed lightly into the surface and protect from birds.
Top plants for green manure
- Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)
- Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum)
- Red clover (Trifolium pratense)
- Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)
- Grazing rye (Secale cereale)
- Broad beans (Vicia faba)
- Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum)
- Mustard greens (Brassica juncea)
- Phacelia
- White clover (Trifolium repens)
