Mustard is used as green manure by growing it for a period, then chopping it down and incorporating it into the soil to improve its quality. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Sowing the Seeds: Scatter mustard seeds evenly over the area you want to improve. Lightly rake them into the soil.
- Growth Phase: Allow the mustard plants to grow for 4-8 weeks. This allows them to accumulate biomass and nutrients from the soil.
- Chopping Down: Once the plants have reached a substantial size (around 40cm or 16 inches is ideal, especially on sandy soils), chop them down. A scythe, mower, or even a garden fork can be used.
- Incorporation: Immediately after chopping, incorporate the cut mustard plants into the top few inches (approximately 10cm) of the soil. This can be done by tilling, digging, or using a rotavator.
- Decomposition: Allow the chopped mustard to decompose in the soil for several weeks before planting your next crop. This decomposition process releases nutrients back into the soil, improving its fertility and structure.
Benefits of Using Mustard as Green Manure:
- Nutrient Cycling: Mustard effectively absorbs nutrients from the soil and releases them upon decomposition, making them available for subsequent crops.
- Soil Structure Improvement: The plant's roots help to aerate and improve soil structure. On sandy soils, allowing the mustard to grow taller provides more fibrous material that helps retain moisture and nutrients.
- Weed Suppression: A dense stand of mustard can suppress weed growth.
- Pest and Disease Control: Mustard can help suppress certain soilborne pests and diseases, although this benefit varies depending on the specific pest or disease.
Important Considerations:
- Timing: The timing of planting and incorporating mustard is crucial. Allow sufficient time for decomposition before planting your next crop.
- Soil Type: Adjust the growth period based on your soil type. Sandy soils benefit from a longer growth period to produce more fibrous material.
- Crop Rotation: Consider the position of mustard in your crop rotation to maximize its benefits.
