When to Plant Buckwheat Cover Crop

Buckwheat is a versatile crop that can be used for food, animal feed, or as a cover crop. As a cover crop, buckwheat is an excellent choice as it grows quickly and suppresses weeds. It also attracts beneficial insects and adds organic matter to the soil. However, timing is crucial when planting buckwheat as a cover crop. In this article, we will discuss when to plant buckwheat cover crop for the best results.

Spring Planting

Buckwheat can be planted in the spring after the soil has warmed up to at least 50掳F (10掳C). It is important to wait until the soil has warmed up as buckwheat is a warm-season crop and prefers temperatures between 60掳F (15掳C) and 70掳F (21掳C). If planted too early, buckwheat can become stunted and may not grow as well.

Summer Planting

Buckwheat can also be planted in the summer, but it is important to time the planting so that it will mature before the first frost. Buckwheat takes approximately 70 days to mature, so planting in mid-summer should give enough time for the crop to grow and mature before the first frost.

Fall Planting

Fall planting of buckwheat is generally not recommended as it is a warm-season crop and prefers temperatures between 60掳F (15掳C) and 70掳F (21掳C). Planting in the fall will result in poor growth and maturity.

Planting Tips

When planting buckwheat as a cover crop, it is important to prepare the soil before planting. Buckwheat prefers well-drained soil that is free of weeds and debris. Till the soil and remove any weeds or debris before planting.

Buckwheat seeds should be planted at a rate of approximately 70-90 pounds per acre. They can be broadcasted or drilled into the soil at a depth of 1-2 inches. If broadcasting, it is recommended to lightly rake the seeds into the soil to ensure good seed to soil contact.

It is important to keep the soil moist during the germination stage, which usually takes between 3-7 days. Once the buckwheat has germinated, it does not require as much water and can tolerate dry conditions.

In conclusion, when to plant buckwheat cover crop depends on the season and soil temperatures. Spring and mid-summer are the best times to plant buckwheat as a cover crop. Proper soil preparation and seeding rates are important for successful growth and maturity. By following these tips, you can reap the benefits of using buckwheat as a cover crop.