Avena sativa This valuable cover crop has many uses. Oats’ fast spring growth makes it ideal for erosion control and adds quick organic matter to the soil. As a fast germinating nurse crop, it will shade and keep the soil cooler for slower germinating legumes. Sow spring through summer. Although it will winter kill, oats can be planted in the fall and the residual plant material can be worked under in the spring to form a soft mellow seedbed. Oats will form seed heads the first year. You can mow it high to remove immature seed heads, or cut it for oat hay. Recommended seeding rate: 1–2 pounds per 1000 square feet; 50 pounds per acre.

Available only in the contiguous US.