| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| Tribe Generator |
Posted - Jun 19 2007 : 3:44:28 PM
Hello to all--
I realize that this isn't the best time of year to discuss this subject, but I'd like to know if anyone has any suggestions on how to reconcile both cover crop growing and the no-dig method of planting. I like the idea of using a cover crop to keep down weeds, add nutrients to the soil, and generally keep everything alive and healthy. I also like the idea of not digging or tilling each year in order to create less of a negative impact on the soil organisms and to prevent hard pan and other symptoms of over-tilling. However, I do not understand how I can combine both of these methods. If I plant a cover crop, how will I remove this crop from the area to be planted without digging the crop under? It seems impossible to me, but I know that there are a lot of very creative and inventive farmers and gardeners out there, so I know there must be some way to utilize both of these methods. Thanks for reading this, and I'd love to hear how you all have gone about these methods with or without success. |
| 4 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| Bluewrenn |
Posted - Jun 20 2007 : 10:19:46 AM
Here's a link that may help you... http://www.seedsofchange.com/enewsletter/issue_37/cover_crops.asp
My Homesteading Journal http://toomyvara.livejournal.com
My craft journal http://bluewrenn.livejournal.com
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| Bluewrenn |
Posted - Jun 19 2007 : 10:13:23 PM
Don't you just mow it and let it sit there? (Kind of like mulch?) Or just let it die off naturally?
My Homesteading Journal http://toomyvara.livejournal.com
My craft journal http://bluewrenn.livejournal.com
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| herbquilter |
Posted - Jun 19 2007 : 7:57:18 PM
I like Mag's idea to skim the topsoil, flip it, but I would mow or weed-eat it first.
But what would you use to skim it with. I wouldn't want to do that by hand. :)
Blessings,
Kristine ~ Mother of Many & Herbalist
www.herbalmomma.com
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| Mag |
Posted - Jun 19 2007 : 6:01:55 PM
Hi Misty,
I don't know if this would work but maybe if you just skim the topsoil and turn the covercrop over then plant your veggies. Or can the covercrop be covered over with some organic mulch or compost? This is a really good question and I am interested if anyone has an answer to this.
cheers,
mag |
