Hey everyone! I have four rows in my garden and initially thought I'd take turns resting one row each year. I'm considering planting clover or another cover crop in the resting row to plow under later. However, I'm not sure if this is really necessary. What are your thoughts on resting rows and cover crops?
4 Answers
I've tried both resting a row and not resting it, and honestly, I haven't seen a huge difference. I think it's more crucial to use cover crops after you harvest. For example, I just harvested my garlic and now I’m planting a cover crop until fall. I also used field peas and hairy vetch in spring for my squash beds, then plowed that under to plant in June.
I focus on crop rotation mainly. I alternate high nitrogen plants with low ones and add manure and Epsom salts at least once a year to keep the soil balanced.
Epsom salt?? Really?? That's interesting!
I just pile on some compost and call it a day! I rotate my plants and throw on extra fertilizer if things don't look great.
I don't usually keep a resting row, but I rotate my crops based on their nutrient needs and add compost every year. It helps keep the soil healthy without a dedicated resting row.
So when you say 'plowed up', do you mean you mix it into the soil?