Green Manure Seeds (Organic)

Green manure is the cultivation of plants that have benefit to the soil. They improve structure and fertility. Green manures, depending on the species, can be sown from March to October. In the vegetable garden, they are often sown in autumn, after harvest. In this way, they protect the soil and soil life in the winter months. Fertilizing the garden in this way also fits within vegan gardening.

What is green manure?

Green manure is the cultivation of plants that have benefit to the soil. They improve structure and fertility. Green manures, depending on the species, can be sown from March to October. In the vegetable garden, they are often sown in autumn, after harvest. In this way, they protect the soil and soil life in the winter months. Fertilizing the garden in this way also fits within vegan gardening.

The benefits of a green manure crop

• Green manure is often sown in autumn, when little is grown in the (vegetable) garden. This brightens up the garden and contributes to biodiversity.
• Because the plants are sown close together, the soil is protected against erosion and weeds have less chance.
• The humus content is increased.
• It is a food for bees and other insects.
• Certain species form deep roots, which improves the soil structure.
• Some plant species, such as lupins and clover, are able to store nitrogen in the soil.
• There are species that can repel pests.
• Fits within vegan gardening.

The disadvantages of green manure

• The costs, because of course the seeds have to be bought.
• This method of fertilization takes up space. This will be easier in larger gardens than in smaller ones. You can also choose to fertilize only certain parts of the garden in this way and another piece the next year.
• Limits crop rotation. It is therefore important to choose green manure carefully and include it in your sowing plan.
• Sowing green manure is labour and time intensive.
• Some species easily spread. It is important to prune them after flowering and before seed formation.
• It is a good hiding place for snails.

So all in all, there are certainly some downsides, but there are also many benefits. For instance less nutrients need to be added to the soil, your soil is naturally protected in winter, it enriches soil life and is good for insects, such as bees. Last but not least, it looks pretty too!