Green Manure

How to improve soil fertility using green manure in organic farming is a question we take seriously, when our cost to produce a high yielding crop is considered.

Put simply, green manure is one of the best ways for organic farmers to increase their organic row crop yields. Using it as an organic fertilizer has multiple benefits and can prove very efficient when implemented the right way. So, how do we best use green manure? What are some of the best sources of green manure? 

These are all questions we’ve been working on trying to answer ourselves, first hand over the past two decades we’ve spent in organic farming. In this article, we’re going to crack open the lid on some of the best ways to utilize green manure in your organic rotation, as well as some things to consider avoiding. 

Why should I trust you guys?

We’re Crop Fertility Services. We’ve been farming organically for the past two decades here in Minnesota, we employ a full time organic agronomist, and we’ve learned a thing or two about not producing the yield we wanted (hopefully, we’ve fixed that) along the way. 

Let’s jump into this. 

The Definition of Green Manure

Green manure is a living plant, often referred to as a “cover crop” 

Is green manure a cover crop?

Technically, yes. Although in the case of the organic row crop farmer, we see cover crops used in row as a method of organic weed control. 

Can you grow corn with only green manure?

While you can grow corn using green manure as your only source of Nitrogen, it’s not recommended. 

Green manure examples

Green manure definition

Green manure cover crops

Green manure advantages and disadvantages