The Mill Cover Crop - Buckwheat

Buckwheat Cover Crop Seed

Buckwheat is a fast-growing summer cover crop that helps improve soil health by releasing residual phosphorus for future crops, weed control, and pollinator activity. With rapid establishment and short maturity, it’s an excellent option for filling gaps in your planting schedule and preparing fields for future crops. 

Key Benefits

• Quickly suppresses weeds with dense growth
• Helps loosen and improve topsoil structure
• Attracts pollinators and beneficial insects
• Short growing window—ready in 30–45 days
• Adds organic matter for better soil quality

Product Details

• Type: Warm-season cover crop
• Growth Speed: Fast establishment (sprouts in 3–5 days)
• Maturity: 30–45 days
• Use: Soil improvement and weed control

How to Grow

Planting

• Timing: Late spring through summer when soil temps are 50–65°F+
• Seeding Rate:
  • 50–90 lbs per acre
  • ~3 lbs per 1,000 sq ft
• Depth: 1/4" to 1"

Water Needs

• Keep soil moist during germination
• Prefers moderate moisture
• Avoid overly dry or waterlogged soils

Growth & Management

• Flowers appear in 30–35 days, attracting bees and beneficial insects
• Ideal for short rotations and quick soil coverage

Termination Tips

• Mow, cut, or till about 10 days after flowering begins
• Incorporates easily into soil due to soft, fast-breaking biomass

Important Use Notes

• Do not allow seeds to mature—can reseed and become weedy
• Best used as a temporary cover crop, not a long-term stand
• Store seed in a cool, dry place

A simple and effective solution, buckwheat helps build healthier soil, reduce weed pressure, and support beneficial insects—all in a short growing window.