Winter prep - Knowledgebase Question - Garden.org

wauconda, Il

Question by Darma1223
October 22, 2010

Iwas wondering if Cover Crop, Hairy Vetch is better than leaves to cover garden. I am trying tot have to use mulch this year I have been crunling leaves but want to do whats best to protect from wintwe in Illinois! Thanks Robin

Answer from NGA
October 22, 2010

0	Hairy vetch not only helps to keep winter weeds from sprouting, its roots grow deep down into the soil, helping to loosen it. And, as a legume, hairy vetch fixes nitrogen in the soil. So the benefits of hairy vetch far outweigh those of shredded leaves in terms of developing healthy soil. There's a little more work involved, though. You'll need to hoe or cut the hairy vetch down and till it into the soil before you plant in the spring. If you have a choice, plant hairy vetch in your garden.

You must be signed in before you can post questions or answers. Click here to join!

« Return to the Garden Knowledgebase Homepage

Member Login:

Garden.org Homepage
Help using the site
About
Contact
Terms of Service
Privacy
Corporate Sponsors
Memberlist
Acorns
Links
Ask a Question
Newsletter

© 1972 - 2018 National Gardening Association

Times are presented in US Central Standard Time

Pinterest
Facebook
Youtube
Twitter
Instagram

Today's site banner is by plantmanager and is called "Blue My Mind"