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Upa Creek, MO

This seems to be the one area I can't fully grasp.

Why is it most competitive growers plant another cover crop in spring and till into the soil as the plant grows? Doesn't that crop breaking down in the soil take away from Nitrogen? Or doesn't it take a few months to really break down and benefit the soil?

Also, I have a very thick cover of 90% vetch and 10% rye as of today over the patch. Since vetch is known for helping with nitrogen, should I turn it over now so it breaks down, and does it need to be sprayed first? When I turn the soil, it will be at least 10 inches down.

Thanks for any responses on this again

3/19/2016 10:34:19 AM

Piqua, Ohio

I turn my cover crop down in March, plant rye with mycco's. As the plant runs I till the rye ahead of the plant. I'very noticed it helps keep weeds from growing. The worms will thank you.

3/19/2016 10:46:41 AM

Germany

Green organic matter (young leaves, grass stalks etc.) are rich in nitrogen, whereas brown organic matter (dead organic matter, such as old leaves, straw, peat, wood chips etc.) are low in nitrogen. The higher content of moisture, sugars etc. helps microorganisms to break down the green organic matter pretty fast (simple experiment: right after mowing you just need to pile up the green mix and wait for half a day, then try to stick your hand in the middle of this mound. That´s one of the most impressive ways of showing how fast decomposition of green organic matter commences), and because of its higher N-content it won´t tie up too much N from your soil, instead it will be converted in a nitrogen releasing compost very soon.

Also, it keeps the worms happy.

3/19/2016 3:26:16 PM

Germany

Instead of adding a warning (for the abovementioned experiment), I better add the hint that you can boil an egg in this mound of grass clippings...it might take a bit longer than usual, but pumpkin growers can be patient ;-)

3/19/2016 3:28:56 PM

Upa Creek, MO

Thank you both for the replies, that helps.

3/19/2016 4:49:12 PM

Partlow,Va

I will also add.. the reason to plant a spring crop in addition to weed control is so they can water in Mycos and get that established in the soil for the pumpkin plants.
I planted buckwheat 2 years ago and weedeated then hoed it in ahead of the kins as they grew. I think it better for sure but A LOT of work in June. If I had a small patch I would for sure do that every year. You must stay 4-5 ft ahead of the kin or you will be chopping pumpkin roots.

3/19/2016 4:59:36 PM

Bethlehem CT

Luke, With that much vetch you will have added a lot of organic nitrogen to the soil for this year. Before chemical fertilizers, farmers would plant legumes like vetch or alfalfa to help grow the heaviest feeding crops like corn. The beauty of organic nitrogen is that the N will be locked up in the soil and released once the soil temp is around 70 degrees. (it is soil microbes that help to release it. They are not active until the soil warms up.)
On a side note, I would consider keeping that vetch growing then spraying and or rolling it to kill it.in June, Leave it on the surface as a mulch. Weeds won't grow through it, plus it will seal in moisture. I am no heavy hitter, however I used a permanent mulch last year and had my best results in 9 years of growing. In a hot climate like St. Louis the mulch will help moderate soil temps. Check out what dale is doing in the sub tropics of Australia. It is amazing.

3/19/2016 5:25:26 PM

Bethlehem CT

http://www.bigpumpkins.com/Diary/DiaryViewOne.asp?eid=228834
Here is a link to his 2014 diary.

3/19/2016 5:30:19 PM

Upa Creek, MO

Thanks for the additional responses. I'll wait to turn it as suggested, and if it gets too long I can mow down. That's interesting what Dale does, I've seen his results. I also have to factor in that my garden is completely shaded after 2pm and with it very humid here, it can retain moisture. There is a small dense stand of trees and understory directly adjacent to the patch which inhibits good air circulation as compared to open areas. I've had problems with disease in 2012 and 2013. All this makes me hesitant to try a mulch like that, but might do some trial and error with one of the plants. Thanks again!

3/20/2016 10:09:34 AM

Bethlehem CT

That sounds like a good idea Luke. It is always best to try stuff out and prove them to yourself before going whole hog. Last year was a test for me. No till in general feels wrong. It goes against our natural desire to till the soil. To sum it up, it's not as pretty.

3/21/2016 7:49:13 AM