300g of this mix covers 40m squared.
Using Phacelia as a Green Manure
Phacelia tanacetifolia, commonly known as phacelia, is a rapidly growing annual green manure that thrives in various soil types, particularly dry ones. It is often referred to as "Bee's Friend" due to its attractive flowers, which are highly beneficial for pollinators. Here are the key features and benefits of using phacelia as a green manure:
Soil Improvement
Phacelia develops an extensive root system that enhances soil structure and aeration. Its growth helps prevent soil erosion and nutrient leaching, making it an effective cover crop.
Weed Suppression
The dense foliage of phacelia effectively suppresses weeds by outcompeting them for resources. This characteristic is particularly valuable in maintaining a clean growing environment.
Attracting Beneficial Insects
Phacelia's purple flowers attract a variety of beneficial insects, including bees and hoverflies, which can help control pest populations in the garden.
Nutrient Retention
While phacelia does not fix nitrogen like legumes, it acts as a nitrogen holder, capturing and retaining nitrogen in the soil. This nitrogen can be made available to subsequent crops when the phacelia is incorporated into the soil.
Easy Management
Phacelia is easy to grow and manage, with a sowing period from March to September. It typically flowers 6-8 weeks after sowing. For optimal benefits, it should be dug into the soil before flowering, when the plant material is still soft and nutrient-rich. After growth, incorporate the plants into the soil to enhance fertility and structure.
Using Rye as a Green Manure
Rye, specifically winter rye (Secale cereale), is a popular choice for green manure due to its hardiness and ability to thrive in various conditions. Here are the main benefits of using rye as a green manure:
Soil Erosion Control
Rye has a deep root system that helps bind the soil, preventing erosion and improving soil stability. This is particularly beneficial on slopes or in areas prone to runoff.
Nitrogen Fixation and Nutrient Cycling
While rye does not fix nitrogen, it captures nitrogen from the soil and helps cycle it back into the system when incorporated. This contributes to overall soil fertility.
Weed Suppression
Rye grows quickly and densely, effectively suppressing weeds. Its robust growth can outcompete many weed species, reducing the need for chemical herbicides.
Winter Hardiness
As a winter cover crop, rye can be sown in the fall and will survive cold temperatures, providing ground cover during the winter months. This helps protect the soil from erosion and nutrient leaching during the off-season.
Easy Incorporation
Rye is easy to manage; it can be sown in late summer to early fall and is typically killed off by frost. Before planting spring crops, the rye should be mowed or cut down and incorporated into the soil, where it breaks down quickly and enriches the soil. After winter, incorporate the rye into the soil before it flowers in the spring to maximize its benefits for subsequent crops.
