key growing information

Peas and Oats Mix | Key Growing Information

How to grow a peas and oats cover crop mix: benefits, sowing season, soil, inoculation, depth and rates, edible pea shoots and managing residue.
By Hensley’s Seed Co.

Peas and Oats Mix - Key Growing Information

Green manures are specific plants, crop varieties, or mixes that are grown and turned into the soil to improve overall quality, particularly fertility and tilth.
Uses: This mix grows fast, is easy to manage, and works well for little cost. The oats hold soil and smother weeds, while the peas fix nitrogen and add biomass. Over winter the killed residue protects the soil, and it works in easily in spring.
Culture: Sow any time from spring to late summer, though cool weather is best. It prefers full sun, well-drained soil and a pH of 6.0–7.0, but can still do well in less ideal spots. For the most growth and nitrogen fixation, inoculate with a pea/vetch inoculant. Plant ¾–1" deep and cover the seed fully; on a larger scale, drill it or broadcast and harrow lightly.
Seeding Rate: 5 lb. per 1,000 sq. ft.; 120–200 lb. per acre.
Height: 24–36"
Harvest: Young pea flowers, tendrils or tips make a sweet, tender addition to salads, and can bring market growers extra income.
Termination: In cold climates both peas and oats winter-kill, leaving a protective residue that's easy to work in come spring; mowing before winter makes it easier still. For spring sowings, mow and till in while the plants are still vegetative, since oats are harder to turn under once they flower. At that point, crimp or mow to leave a surface mulch, or wait 2–3 weeks after mowing before tilling. On a small scale, tarping after mowing or crimping handles the residue well.

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