To restore balance, planting green manures, known as cover crops, is a highly effective solution for the autumn season.

Phacelia: a dual-purpose cover crop and a honey plant:

Cover crops function as organic fertilizers, offering a cost-effective alternative to chemical solutions. Unlike store-bought fertilizers, these crops are affordable, easy to plant, and require minimal maintenance.

In addition to improving soil structure, they act as natural mulch, protecting the ground from freezing during winter. Among the most effective cover crops are phacelia, white mustard, and alfalfa.

How cover crops benefit the soil:

After harvesting, the soil should be loosened and, if necessary, watered to prepare it for planting. Scatter the seeds directly onto the ground—this method is preferable to using seeders, as plants grown in rows often leave spaces where weeds can sprout. By evenly sowing by hand, the ground cover becomes denser, which reduces weed growth.

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After scattering the seeds, you can either lay straw on top to create an insulating mulch or cover them with a thin layer of soil (about 5 cm). Both options help the seeds germinate while providing winter protection.

Why plant cover crops in the fall?

Cover crops planted in the fall will not reach maturity before the frost, eliminating the need for tilling. These crops will naturally wilt and cover the soil, with their roots decomposing underground over the winter. This decomposition loosens the soil and enhances its permeability, allowing it to absorb moisture more effectively in the next season.

Incorporating cover crops is a simple and sustainable way to replenish the soil, ensuring it remains fertile and ready for future planting.