Cover Crop Series: Winter Peas
- hpoppler
- Oct 21, 2024
- 1 min read
Updated: Nov 4, 2024
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!
Planting Details:
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Should be planted between April 15th and September 15th north of interstate 94.
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The minimum germination temperature for planting is 40 degrees F.
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Planting rate should be 30-45 lbs./acre and planted 1-2″ deep.
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Seeds/lb.: 3,500-4,500
About Winter Peas:
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Annual legume often used as a cover crop.
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Planted in fall for overwintering and spring growth.
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Usually terminated before planting the primary crop (like corn).
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Low Carbon-to-Nitrogen ratio for efficient nutrient cycling.
Benefits:
Winter Hardy
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Winter Peas are suitable for overwintering in cold climates, continuing to benefit the soil until spring
Soil Health
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Improves soil health by enhancing organic matter and soil structure.
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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
[email protected]