Cover Crop Series: Winter Peas

It’s time for our next installment in the weekly cover crop series! Each week, we explore a different cover crop, sharing growing tips and discussing their advantages and challenges. This week, we’re featuring Winter Peas!

Winter Peas

Planting Details:

• Should be planted between April 15th and September 15th north of interstate 94.

• The minimum germination temperature for planting is 40 degrees F.

• Planting rate should be 30-45 lbs./acre and planted 1-2" deep.

• Seeds/lb.: 3,500-4,500

About Winter Peas:

• Annual legume often used as a cover crop.

• Planted in fall for overwintering and spring growth.

• Usually terminated before planting the primary crop (like corn).

• Low Carbon-to-Nitrogen ratio for efficient nutrient cycling.

Benefits:

Winter Hardy

• Winter Peas are suitable for overwintering in cold climates, continuing to benefit the soil until spring

Soil Health

• Improves soil health by enhancing organic matter and soil structure.

• Suppresses weeds and reduces soil erosion during the off-season.

Interested in learning more about crops or find info on how to get started? Visit our Cover Crops page, or Contact our Environmental Services team at conservation@centrasota.com