Top 10 uses for Cover Crops & Farm Seed

Using farm seed wisely is an investment in your land that pays off in long-term productivity and sustainability. Cover crops and farm seed can do many jobs: they curb erosion, build organic matter, hold moisture, and protect soil and watershed health. Growing your own inputs also saves on fertilizer, feed and mulch hay, while improving the health of your animals, soil, crops and the food you sell, and of the land around you.

Farm seed fits into a farm in many ways. These ten uses and their main benefits are the most common.

1 • Green manure

Return organic matter and nutrients to the soil and improve its structure.

2 • Erosion control

Anchor soil and buffer it from weather between main crops.

3 • Nitrogen fixing

Sow nitrogen-fixing crops to boost yields and cut fertilizer bills.

4 • Breaking compaction

Open up deep compacted layers for a healthier soil profile.

5 • Weed suppression

Use smother crops to save on herbicide and labor while building soil health.

6 • Grain

Grains serve as mulch, rotation crops, and food for animals and people.

7 • Pest management

Biofumigant crops that release glucosinolates into the soil can help reduce some soil pests and diseases.

8 • Forage

Grow your own pasture and livestock feed to save money and support animal health.

9 • Pollinators and beneficial insects

Draw in bees and other helpful insects for better pollination and fruit set and natural pest control.

10 • Biomass and organic matter

Grow high-biomass crops to produce large amounts of organic matter.