Midsummer is when most gardeners are harvesting the fruits of their labor and enjoying fresh seasonal produce, but it is actually a great time to think ahead about caring for the soil on which your crops depend.
Cover crops are plants grown primarily to benefit the successful growth of future crops. They help with soil erosion, improve soil health, crowd-out weeds, control pests and diseases, increase biodiversity, and can bring a host of other benefits to your farm or garden.
“Hamilton County Soil and Water is excited to once again offer free cover crops to gardeners in Hamilton County!” said Lynsey Johnston, volunteer coordinator at Hamilton County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD).
This initiative aims to promote sustainable growing practices and soil health among home gardeners, community gardens, and local farmers. Free cover crop seed packets are available from at SWCD office, 1717 Pleasant St. #100, Noblesville, Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Packets of crimson clover and a peas and oats mix are available to home and community gardeners. Crimson clover should be planted by Sept. 30 while the oats and peas mixture should be planted by Sept. 15.
Why cover crops?
- Soil health: Cover crops improve soil structure, increase organic matter, and support beneficial soil organisms.
- Erosion control: They protect against soil erosion by providing ground cover.
- Weed suppression: Cover crops can outcompete weeds, reducing the need for herbicides.
- Nutrient management: They help in fixing nitrogen and recycling other nutrients, making them available for future crops.
Seed packets are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t miss out. Visit the Hamilton County SWCD office to pick up your free packets and start benefiting from the advantages of cover crops.
For more information, please call the Hamilton County SWCD office at (317) 773-2181 or visit hamiltonswcd.org/urbanagriculture.