Mustard, Spring
In the Northeast, yellow mustard is used as a spring-planted cover crop before regular season vegetables. It is used particularly for reducing root rot. It also adds organic matter, breaks up hardpan, and suppresses weeds in the following crop.
Land Preparation
Firm seedbed free of weeds to ensure a good stand. Available nitrogen levels at 120 lb N/ May require sulfur application at 6:1 N:S. Vegetable land often has sufficient nutrients.
Seeding Rate
Drill 10-12 lb/ac with grass seeder. Broadcast 10-15 lb/ac. Cover 1/2 inch. After seeding, roll the ground to improve seed-to-soil contact but do not break up soil aggregates.
Seeding Dates
April. Can also be frost seeded in March or early April.
Seed Suppliers
Rupp Seeds (Caliente), MinnDak Growers (Tilney).
Maintenance
None.
Control
Do not let mustards go to seed. Incorporate at flowering (mid to late-May). For better disease suppression, flail mow into fine pieces and incorporate immediately. Press lightly to contain biofumigant.
Tips
Do not use in rotations with other Brassicas. If used as a biofumigant, allow it to work for 1-2 weeks before preparing to plant.
| Management Goal | Planting Time |
|---|---|
| Reduce Root Rot | Spring |
| Increase Organic Matter | Spring |
| Break Up Deep Compaction | Spring |
| Reduce Weeds | Spring |