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Sorghum Sudangrass Seeds | Summer Cover Crop | Nematode Suppression | 100 Square Feet
Sorghum × drummondii
Listing is for 1 packet with enough seeds to cover crop a 100SF area
Sorghum 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.
BONUS TIP: 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.
HOW TO PLANT/GROW THIS COVER CROP
Germination: 5-14 days
Germination Temperature: The soil must be above 65F
Seed Sowing Depth: 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.
Sowing: Direct sowing only
When & How to Terminate This Cover Crop (No Tractor Needed): 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.
SEEDS
PLANTS & RHIZOMES
DELIVERED BUT NOT FOUND
To be eligible for a replacement:
Reports made after 24 hours of delivery will not be eligible for a refund or replacement. We are unable to replace or refund plants reported outside of this timeframe, as plant health after delivery is influenced by factors out of our control such as handling, environmental conditions, and care once received.
We are not responsible for lost, delayed, or damaged packages caused by USPS or UPS once the package is in the carrier’s possession. Shipping carriers are responsible for transit-related issues.
DELIVERED BUT NOT FOUND
By placing an order, you agree to this refund and replacement policy.
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