underseeding

Underseeding is a technique used in agriculture and horticulture where a cover crop is sown into an existing crop, or between rows of established plants, before the main crop is harvested or the season ends. The goal is to establish the underseeded crop while the main crop is still growing, allowing it to develop some root mass and vegetative growth before it has to survive on its own. This is often done in orchards, vineyards, or intercropping systems.

The benefits of underseeding are varied. It can help suppress weeds by providing competition, improve soil health through organic matter addition and nutrient cycling, and prevent soil erosion by covering bare ground. Depending on the species chosen, underseeding can also attract beneficial insects, improve water infiltration, and fix atmospheric nitrogen into the soil. The timing of the underseeding is crucial, as it needs to be done early enough for the cover crop to establish but without negatively impacting the yield of the main crop.

Commonly underseeded crops include various legumes, grasses, and brassicas. The choice of species depends on the climate, soil type, the primary crop being grown, and the specific goals of the farmer or gardener. For instance, clover might be underseeded in an orchard for nitrogen fixation and weed suppression, while a rye might be chosen in a vegetable field for erosion control and biomass production. Management of the underseeded crop after the main crop is removed is also important to ensure its continued benefits or to prepare the ground for the next planting.