Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
ganic growers allow grass sod to grow in the alleyways and up to the tree
trunks, and manage the in-row grass by mowing before fruit thinning and
TABLE 9.2
Suggested In-Row Living Mulch Cover Crops
These species may also serve as insectary crops and can be blended
with grasses for alleyway cover crops.
Non-legumes
Alpine rockcress (
Arabis alpina
)
A perennial member of the
Brassica
(mustard) family with 16-inch flower stalks and a basal rosette of
leaves. Adapted to gravelly and alkaline soils and grows best in full
sun. Rated to USDA Zones 4-7.
Creeping thyme (
Thymus praecox 'Minus'
)
Produces a low-growing
cover with good weed suppression and little cover for rodents. Can be
slow to establish and requires supplemental weed control during es-
tablishment. May benefit from a nurse crop (annual rye or oats).
Drought-tolerant in cooler climates. Does not perform as well in hot,
dry areas. Rated to USDA Zones 2-9.
Mother-of-thyme (
Thymus serpyllum
)
A low-growing, drought-toler-
ant, evergreen perennial that seldom exceeds 3 inches in height.
Moderate growth rate. Tolerates sun to light shade. Rated to USDA
Zones 4-9. Produces purple flowers. Grows best on well-drained soils.
