Soil in need of some TLC? Then it’s time to make room for legumes
Crops such as vetch, field beans and forage peas can improve soil if you use them as a mulch
TL;DR
- Heavy clay soil is nutrient-dense but can be difficult for crops to access nutrients.
- Legumes like vetch, field beans, and forage peas can fix nitrogen from the air.
- Sowing these legumes in autumn allows their roots to penetrate and improve soil structure.
- When cut down in spring, their decomposing root systems enhance water retention and nutrient availability.
- This method is an alternative to traditional mulching with compost or manure, especially for difficult terrain.