Frequently Asked Questions
Find detailed answers to common questions about our cover crops, including growth rates, soil suitability, environmental benefits, and more. Click on a question to learn more.
How long in cm/inches do the plants grow?
These plants grow 6-12 inches within the first month under normal circumstances.
Which seed grows well in what soil?
General Suitability
How long does it take for each seed to achieve complete cover?
CM
Relative drought tolerance among the different plant seeds?
All these seeds are drought-tolerant due to their deep taproots. While the surface layer may dry, the taproots access moisture below, ensuring survival during dry spells.
What are common plants that work well with these seeds?
MB and CC
Relative Soil Erosion Control among the different crop seeds?
Ranking
Tips on when to use soil conditioner and when to use fertilizer?
Soil Conditioner
Are these plants environmentally friendlier than other alternatives? How do they contribute to sustainability?
These plants improve soil texture, retain moisture, and encourage microorganisms, fostering a healthier ecological balance.
How to tell if the soil needs conditioning?
Common signs include cracks in the soil, poor growth of trees or crops, and compacted soil with poor drainage (common in rice fields).
What are the potential cost savings when using these seeds?
Major Savings
What other qualities do these seeds have, such as retaining soil moisture or regulating soil temperature?
Cover crops retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and encourage the growth of beneficial microorganisms.
Which seeds are suitable for manure or husbandry purposes?
CP
What is the ranking of the growth speed of these plant seeds (slowest to fastest)?
CC
What terrains are these plants best suited for, such as slopes or flatlands?
These seeds grow well in most terrains, including slopes and areas near electrical poles. CM, CP, and PJ perform well in diverse terrains.
What pests or diseases might target these plants? Are they resistant?
These plants are highly pest-resistant. Pests only invade if there is significant injury to the plants.
Do these plants attract beneficial pollinators? Are there risks of attracting pests?
These plants attract beneficial pollinators such as bees. Thick cover crops may also attract frogs, snakes, and rats, fostering a natural ecology.
What are the best seasons for planting, and what are the rotation schedules?
These seeds are suited for tropical climates. Some variations are adapted for temperate climates.
What nutrients do these plants contribute to the soil?
Primarily nitrogen, with contributions ranging from 35–450 kg per year, depending on soil conditions.
Which seeds are most effective at suppressing weeds?
All these seeds effectively suppress weeds as long as they dominate the area. They are non-allelopathic and dominate by covering the soil with their leaves.
How do these seeds affect soil microbial health?
They encourage the growth of beneficial microorganisms, improving soil biodiversity.
What is the recommended seeding rate for optimal coverage?
Closer planting is better, with a minimum one-by-one planting method.
Can these plants be used for forage, hay, or biomass?
CP
Are there region-specific benefits or drawbacks?
These plants reach their full potential when maximum coverage is achieved. They tolerate flooding for up to two weeks but will die after prolonged submersion.
Are there legal restrictions or guidelines for planting these seeds?
Importation requires permits from both the importing and exporting countries.
What are the best practices for terminating cover crops?
Most cover crops are perennial and do not require termination. Tools may be needed to cut them back if necessary.
What are the best practices for storing seeds?
Seeds should be stored on elevated pallets to avoid contact with cement. Under ideal conditions, seeds remain viable for up to 5 years with 80% germination rates.
How do these plants interact with existing ecosystems?
These plants dominate the areas they cover but prepare the soil for better planting conditions, maintaining ecological balance.
What are the economic benefits or returns from using cover crops?
Reduced use of herbicides and nitrogen fertilizers allows farmers to focus on phosphorus and potassium applications.
Can these seeds be used with precision agriculture techniques?
These cover crops are not intended for flooded areas but work well with precision irrigation and nutrient management systems.
How resilient are these plants to extreme weather?
These plants are resilient to drought and moderate flooding. CM and CP are gentle, while MB is more aggressive but suitable for specific plantations.