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cover crop in Denver #615784

Asked March 05, 2020, 12:22 PM EST

I planted Winter Rye as a cover crop last Fall.  I want to plant early greens and peas soon and the Winter Rye is only about 6 inches in height.  What is the best way to turn the Rye into the soil.  Should I just spade it into the soil and mix a bit of compost and aged manure into the ground.

Thank you very much

Denver County Colorado

Expert Response

Hello,

There is a PlanTalk sponsored by the Colorado State extension on this topic: https://planttalk.colostate.edu/topics/soils-amendments-composting/1607-cover-crops-winter-rye/ that states by spring the Winter Rye will be six to 12 inches high. Before planting in the spring, mow rye grass to chop tops into smaller pieces, and then cultivate to turn it under. The plant residues break down quickly adding needed organic material to improve soil structure and drainage, and improve the soil’s ability to hold nutrients.A rule of thumb is to plan for at least a month in spring after turning under cover crops to allow them to decompose before planting vegetables.

Colorado Master Gardener, Denver County Replied March 07, 2020, 4:30 PM EST

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