Annual broadleaf. Up to 5'. Moderately frost resistant. Produces large amounts of biomass containing high levels of glucosinates that break down into compounds toxic to nematodes and soil-borne pathogens (such as Verticilium wilt, Rhizoctonia, powdery scab, and common scab on potatoes), a phenomenon known as “biofumigation.”
Does not tolerate drought. Allow the plants to grow fairly large to maximize the glucosinate concentration, and then chop fine and incorporate into the soil. Allow 2 weeks for the plant to break down before planting a new crop. Plant 1½" deep in a firm moist seed bed at 15–25#/acre, 1#/1000 sq ft.
As cover crop: Best as a fall-planted cover crop to retain nutrients, suppress weeds and improve water penetration. Plant in the spring as a green manure and to suppress nematodes and diseases. (Some years ago, a lot came in bags featuring a cartoon knight dubbed “The Nematode Slayer!”)
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