re: Planted summer plots today

I’m not sure the method of termination has an impact on what deteriorates into soil (though chemical sprays cost and do change pH I believe). I want to try a crimper to break the stems on my cereal rye so it won’t stand back up - I want it to lay flat and smother weeds.

I’ve done 2 fall/winter crops and neither was crimped, neither suppressed weeds good enough in the subsequent spring/summer. But, there were other factors - like neighbor’s cows that thinned out my crop.

I’m not saying what I’m doing is the only way or the best way, but I am seeing changes I like in my soil and in the deer herd, I believe. Time will tell. But I rent a Truax drill, I have bought local and Green Cover Seeds and prefer the latter, and I’ve sprayed herbicide twice (hired it sprayed). Lots of variables, it might take a long time to figure it all out.

I’m having a hard time justifying buying A $12k implement to use 2 days a year. But, I might get there. For now I’ll rent and borrow if I can. But I sure do want to try a crimper.