Crimson Clover
A very good ground cover plant that will help with weed suppression, is quick and easy to grow. It can take a degree of frost but even if it does die back the winter roots are beneficial helping keep the soil together. The foliage can be left on the top of the soil as a mulch through winter. Good nitrogen fixer. Suits most soils especially useful in sandy ones but does like it free draining but not clay types. Part of the Legume family.
Mustard
Mustard is a quick growing green manure that can be sown from March - September for a period of 2-4 months. It suits most soils and produces lots of leafy growth good for soils lacking organic matter, helping to improve soil texture and give better moisture retention. Part of the Brassica family.
Red Clover
This is a fast growing perennial that can be left in situ for 3-18 months. Its deep penetrating roots are excellent nitrogen fixers and penetrate the soil helping to improve its structure. Red clover has leafy growth that smothers weeds and helps retain moisture and can grow in most soil types. Part of the Legume family.
Italian Ryegrass
This is an excellent green manure that has roots that penetrate the soil and help to stabilize it in winter by preventing soil erosion and also help to dredge up minerals that might have been lost during winter rain. It works with the Legume family green manures to release the nitrates they collect at a slower rate through the season.
