Crimson clover: best method and timing to till into raised beds - Ask Extension
So I thought I would try a cover crop this year to improve the soil in my vegetable garden. My raised beds are full of lush, green, non-flowering cri...
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Crimson clover: best method and timing to till into raised beds #119536
Asked April 01, 2013, 3:47 PM EDT
So I thought I would try a cover crop this year to improve the soil in my vegetable garden. My raised beds are full of lush, green, non-flowering crimson clover. My dilemma is that I would like to begin planting spring crops, but I am not sure it is time to take down the clover since it has not even budded yet. In addition, I have read different ways of managing the cover crop: cut it and then till the whole thing under, or cut it and remove the green while only turning under the roots. What is your opinion?
Clackamas County Oregon
Expert Response
Hello,
In order to get the benefit of the nitrogen from the clover you would have to work the above-ground clover foliage into the soil. The timing of that tillage depends on when you want to start gardening. Looks like another short spell of dry weather is forecast for next weekend. That might be your chance. You need to allow 3-5 weeks (depending on how much biomass the clover has) for it to decompose in the soil. If you want to get into some beds in the next couple weeks where you have clover. Simply cut down the foliage and rake it aside to another part of the garden where you have more time to work it in and allow time for decomposition. Then you can work in the stubble and roots well and most likely plant the next day.
For maximum N from the clover wait until early flowering when the clover has put on the maximum vegetative growth. We are writing a few new publications on cover crops for gardens with WSU Extension. I hope they'll be out in time for next season. Meanwhile if you're interested in more info, see "Estimating N release from cover crops" PNW Extension Pub # 636. Easily found via google.
Have a great season.
Nick
In order to get the benefit of the nitrogen from the clover you would have to work the above-ground clover foliage into the soil. The timing of that tillage depends on when you want to start gardening. Looks like another short spell of dry weather is forecast for next weekend. That might be your chance. You need to allow 3-5 weeks (depending on how much biomass the clover has) for it to decompose in the soil. If you want to get into some beds in the next couple weeks where you have clover. Simply cut down the foliage and rake it aside to another part of the garden where you have more time to work it in and allow time for decomposition. Then you can work in the stubble and roots well and most likely plant the next day.
For maximum N from the clover wait until early flowering when the clover has put on the maximum vegetative growth. We are writing a few new publications on cover crops for gardens with WSU Extension. I hope they'll be out in time for next season. Meanwhile if you're interested in more info, see "Estimating N release from cover crops" PNW Extension Pub # 636. Easily found via google.
Have a great season.
Nick
