There are many green manure crops grown in Russia, but we chose phacelia, renowned for its unrivaled beauty. Just look at this wonder:
Now I’ll explain why phacelia is the best green manure:
- very dense foliage;
- rapid growth;
- high yield level (we harvest about 260-280 kg from one hundred square meters - we weighed it immediately after harvesting the green mass, that is, it was freshly cut);
- shortened growing season – one and a half to two months;
- can be planted three times per season, which accelerates the restoration of soil structure and fertility;
- Pre-winter planting is acceptable, so this green manure emerges very early;
- excellent cold resistance (withstands temperatures down to -8-10 degrees Celsius);
- absolutely unpretentious in cultivation;
- resistance to drought and heat, which is important for many regions;
- can be planted both in full sun and in partial shade;
- excellent germination – no matter how much we plant, 90-100% always sprouts;
- can be planted with absolutely all crops;
- Excellent pest repellant and attracts beneficial insects.
But we also discovered a drawback—albeit just one. Phacelia has a shallow root system, which prevents the soil from being loosened to any significant depth. We solved this problem, too—an agronomist friend advised us to plant phacelia alongside buckwheat. We tried it this year, so I can't yet comment on the results. But an experienced agronomist is unlikely to dispense useless advice.