{"title":"Cover Crops","description":"\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBuild healthier soil naturally with a cover crop. Cover crops are one of the easiest and most effective ways to improve your garden's soil while reducing weeds, preventing erosion, and supporting beneficial insects and pollinators.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhether you're preparing a new garden bed, resting a growing area between seasons, or looking to add organic matter and nutrients back into your soil, cover crops can help create a thriving foundation for future harvests. Many cover crops also help improve soil structure, increase water retention, suppress unwanted weeds, and attract beneficial insects that support a healthy garden ecosystem.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOur selection includes a variety of cover crops suited for different climates, growing seasons, and gardening goals. Whether you're looking to fix nitrogen, break up compacted soil, add biomass, or simply protect bare ground, you'll find options to help your garden flourish naturally.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"sorghum-sudangrass-cover-crop-seeds","title":"Sorghum Sudangrass Cover Crop Seeds","description":"\u003cp\u003eSorghum Sudangrass Seeds | Summer Cover Crop | Nematode Suppression | 100 Square Feet\u003cbr\u003eSorghum × drummondii\u003cbr\u003eListing is for 1 packet with enough seeds to cover crop a 100SF area\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSorghum Sudangrass is one of the most powerful warm-season cover crops a gardener can reach for — a fast-growing, heat-loving annual grass hybrid that transforms problem soil over a single summer. In just 45–60 days it produces a towering wall of dense biomass that outcompetes weeds before they have a chance to take hold, while its deep, fibrous root system — reaching 4 to 6 feet down — breaks through compacted layers and builds long-lasting soil structure. What really sets it apart is its natural biofumigant effect: as the roots and green material break down, they release compounds that actively suppress soil-dwelling pests including root knot nematodes, making it a go-to choice for gardeners rotating out of heavily planted vegetable beds. Each packet contains enough seed to cover crop a 100 square foot area. Sow directly into warm soil (at least 60°F) after your spring crops wrap up, mow or crimp once it begins to head out, then till or chop and drop the residue to feed your soil ahead of fall planting. Thrives in full sun with minimal inputs — the more heat, the better. Whether you're battling nematode pressure, recovering tired soil, or simply building organic matter for next season's garden, Sorghum Sudangrass delivers fast, visible results right when summer heat would stop most cover crops cold.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBONUS TIP:\u003c\/strong\u003e Before broadcasting your seeds, soak them for a few minutes in compost tea or compost extract. This coats the seeds with beneficial microorganisms that go straight into your soil at planting. These good microbes naturally compete with and suppress root knot nematodes — and paired with the Sorghum Sudangrass's own nematode-fighting root activity, you're giving problem soil a serious one-two punch with almost zero extra effort.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHOW TO PLANT\/GROW THIS COVER CROP\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGermination:\u003c\/strong\u003e 5-14 days\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGermination Temperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e The soil must be above 65F\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeed Sowing Depth:\u003c\/strong\u003e Broadcast over the soil surface and gently rake them into the top 1 inch of soil, and water them in. Water the area every day to ensure the soil is moist for better germination and coverage. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSowing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Direct sowing only\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhen \u0026amp; How to Terminate This Cover Crop (No Tractor Needed):\u003c\/strong\u003e Sorghum Sudangrass is ready to terminate when it reaches 3 to 4 feet tall or just as it begins to form seed heads at the top — this is the sweet spot where the plant has built up maximum biomass and root activity but hasn't yet dropped seed and turned into a weed problem of its own. Don't wait too long; once it fully seeds out the stalks get woody and much harder to cut down by hand. For backyard gardeners, a few simple tools get the job done. A pair of loppers or a sharp machete works well for chopping stalks down at the base. A string trimmer or brush blade attachment makes quick work of larger patches. Once cut, leave the chopped material right on the surface as a mulch layer, or chop it into smaller pieces and work it into the top few inches of soil with a garden fork to speed up decomposition. The roots can be left in the ground — they'll break down on their own and continue improving soil structure underground. For raised beds and containers, the process is even simpler. Because the growing space is smaller and more contained, you can cut the plants down with basic pruning shears or scissors, pull the root mass by hand once it begins to loosen after a few days without water, and mix the chopped greens directly into your bed as a green manure. In containers especially, the fast-decomposing root system means your soil will be ready to replant sooner than you might expect — typically within 2 to 3 weeks after termination depending on temperature and moisture.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Jerrasgarden","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48582352830689,"sku":"COVERCROP001","price":4.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0650\/4012\/2081\/files\/SorghumSudangrass1.jpg?v=1782176917"},{"product_id":"sunn-hemp-cover-crop-seeds","title":"Sunn Hemp Cover Crop Seeds","description":"\u003cp\u003eSunn Hemp Cover Crop Seeds | Nitrogen Fixer \u0026amp; Root Knot Nematode Supressing Cover Crop | 100 Square Feet\u003cbr\u003eCrotalaria juncea\u003cbr\u003eListing is for 1 packet with enough seeds to cover crop a 100SF area\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSunn Hemp is one of the fastest-growing and most productive warm-season cover crops available to home gardeners, capable of transforming tired soil in just a few months. Unlike grass-based cover crops, Sunn Hemp is a legume, meaning it works in partnership with beneficial soil bacteria to capture nitrogen from the atmosphere and store it in the soil where future crops can use it. In as little as 60–90 days, this vigorous tropical plant can reach 5–8 feet tall, producing massive amounts of organic matter that improve soil structure, increase water retention, and feed beneficial soil life. Its extensive root system helps loosen compacted soil while adding valuable organic material below ground. Sunn Hemp is also valued for its ability to suppress weeds through rapid canopy growth and has been shown to help reduce populations of certain plant-parasitic nematodes. Each packet contains enough seed to cover crop a 100 square foot area. Sow directly into warm soil once temperatures consistently exceed 65°F. Allow the plants to grow throughout the summer, then cut them down once you notice the formation of flower buds - but before they go to seed. Use the nutrient-rich biomass as a mulch or green manure. Thriving in full sun and hot weather, Sunn Hemp is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to naturally build soil fertility, add organic matter, and prepare garden beds for future vegetable crops.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBONUS TIP:\u003c\/strong\u003e Before broadcasting your seeds, soak them for a few minutes in compost tea or compost extract. This coats the seeds with beneficial microorganisms that go straight into your soil at planting. These good microbes naturally compete with and suppress root knot nematodes — and paired with the Sorghum Sudangrass's own nematode-fighting root activity, you're giving problem soil a serious one-two punch with almost zero extra effort.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFollow me on social media because I talk a lot about the same seed varieties I sell here in my shop and gardening tips. IG, YT, and TikTok: jerrasgarden. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePLANTING\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGermination: \u003c\/strong\u003e5-10 days\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGermination Temperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e The soil must be above 65F\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeed Sowing Depth: \u003c\/strong\u003eBroadcast  over the soil surface and gently rake them into the top 1 inch of soil\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSowing\u003c\/strong\u003e: Direct sowing only\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhen \u0026amp; How to Terminate This Cover Crop (No Tractor Needed): \u003c\/strong\u003eSunn Hemp is best terminated when it reaches just before it begins flowering (can take 6 to 8 weeks). At this stage, the stems remain relatively tender, decomposition is faster, and the plant has already accumulated significant nitrogen and biomass. Waiting too long can result in thicker, woodier stems that take longer to break down. For backyard gardeners, a few simple tools get the job done. A pair of loppers or a sharp machete works well for chopping stalks down at the base. A string trimmer or brush blade attachment makes quick work of larger patches. Once cut, leave the chopped material right on the surface as a mulch layer, or chop it into smaller pieces and work it into the top few inches of soil with a garden fork to speed up decomposition. The roots can be left in the ground — they'll break down on their own and continue improving soil structure underground. For raised beds and containers, the process is even simpler. Because the growing space is smaller and more contained, you can cut the plants down with basic pruning shears or scissors, pull the root mass by hand once it begins to loosen after a few days without water, and mix the chopped greens directly into your bed as a green manure. In containers especially, the fast-decomposing root system means your soil will be ready to replant sooner than you might expect — typically within 2 to 3 weeks after termination depending on temperature and moisture.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Jerrasgarden","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48586589831393,"sku":"COVERCROP002","price":4.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0650\/4012\/2081\/files\/sunn_hemp_cover_crop_3_1.jpg?v=1782228373"},{"product_id":"caliente-rojo-mustard-blend-cover-crop-seeds","title":"Caliente Rojo Mustard Blend Cover Crop Seeds","description":"\u003cp\u003eCaliente Rojo Mustard Blend Seeds | Biofumigant Cover Crop | Root Knot Nematode Suppression | 100 Square Feet\u003cbr\u003eBrassica juncea\u003cbr\u003eListing is for 1 packet with enough seeds to cover crop a 100SF area\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCaliente Rojo Mustard Blend is a specialized biofumigant cover crop developed specifically to improve soil health while helping suppress soil-borne pests and diseases. Unlike standard mustard varieties, Caliente Rojo was selected for its exceptionally high levels of glucosinolates — naturally occurring sulfur-containing compounds found within mustard plant tissues. When the plants are chopped and incorporated into moist soil, these compounds break down and release biologically active substances similar to naturally occurring fumigants. This process can help reduce populations of root knot nematodes, certain soil-borne fungal pathogens, and other harmful organisms that can build up in intensively cultivated vegetable gardens. For gardeners struggling with root knot nematodes, Caliente Rojo offers one of the most effective biological tools available, especially when combined with crop rotation and healthy soil management practices.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeyond its biofumigant properties, Caliente Rojo is also an outstanding soil-building cover crop. It grows rapidly, creating a dense canopy that shades out weeds while producing abundant biomass that improves soil structure and organic matter levels. Its vigorous root system helps improve soil tilth while supporting beneficial microbial activity. This is a cool season cover crop - so its best to use during the fall or spring, or if your in a mild winter area with no snow, it can be used as a winter cover crop.  Each packet contains enough seed to cover crop a 100 square foot area. Simply sow directly into prepared soil during cooler growing periods (fall, winter, and spring), allow the plants to reach peak vegetative growth, then chop and incorporate them into the soil while still green. Thriving in full sun and moderate temperatures, Caliente Rojo is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to rehabilitate vegetable beds, suppress root knot nematodes naturally, and build healthier, more productive soil for future crops.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBONUS TIP:\u003c\/strong\u003e Before broadcasting your seeds, soak them for a few minutes in compost tea or compost extract. This coats the seeds with beneficial microorganisms that go straight into your soil at planting. These good microbes naturally compete with and suppress root knot nematodes — and paired with the Sorghum Sudangrass's own nematode-fighting root activity, you're giving problem soil a serious one-two punch with almost zero extra effort.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePLANTING\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGermination: \u003c\/strong\u003e5-10 days\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeed Sowing Depth: \u003c\/strong\u003eBroadcast over the soil surface and gently rake them into the top 1 inch of soil\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSowing: \u003c\/strong\u003eDirect sowing only. Caliente Rojo is a mustard blend, which is a cool season crop. This cover crop is best used during the fall or spring. If your in a mild winter climate, as in no snow areas, can also use this as a winter cover crop. For cover cropping during the summer, I recommend Sunn Hemp or Sorghum Sudangrass. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhen \u0026amp; How to Terminate This Cover Crop (No Tractor Needed): \u003c\/strong\u003eAllow this cover crop to grow for 6-10 weeks. The leaves should still be small, and the main stem should be thin, tender, as in has not hardened up and got woody. It is hard to cut this down without machinery if allowed to grow tall, or go near the start of flowering because the stems start to get hard. This timing is critical because glucosinolate levels are generally highest during vigorous vegetative growth and before the plant directs significant energy toward flowering and seed production. For maximum biofumigation benefits, cut the plants down while they are still lush and green using hedge shears, a string trimmer, weed trimmer, or garden sickle. Immediately chop the material into smaller pieces to rupture as many plant cells as possible. Next, incorporate the chopped material into the top 4 to 6 inches of moist soil using a weeding or stirrup hoe (my preference), garden fork, broadfork, shovel, or tiller. Water the area thoroughly after incorporation to activate the biofumigation process. If your goal is primarily soil improvement rather than nematode suppression, you may also leave the chopped material on the surface as a mulch layer or allow it to decompose naturally. In raised beds and containers, the process is simple: cut the plants down with hand pruners, chop the foliage into smaller pieces, and mix it into the growing medium. Wait approximately 2 to 3 weeks after incorporation before planting vegetables to allow decomposition and biofumigation to complete. This waiting period helps prevent potential seedling stress while maximizing the soil-health benefits of the cover crop. ***For soil biofumigation*** The biomass must be tilled\/mixed into the soil so it can release compounds into the soil that supress root knot nematodes and other pests. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Jerrasgarden","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48586683318497,"sku":"COVERCROP003","price":4.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0650\/4012\/2081\/files\/calienterojocovercrop3.jpg?v=1782230326"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0650\/4012\/2081\/collections\/Scover_crop_of_sunn_hemp_1.jpg?v=1782227219","url":"https:\/\/www.jerrasgarden.com\/collections\/cover-crops.oembed","provider":"Jerra's Garden","version":"1.0","type":"link"}