Buckwheat Seed (lb)

Fagopyrum esculentum is a fast-growing warm-season broadleaf cover crop for filling short gaps between spring and fall plantings. In warm soil, buckwheat germinates quickly and develops a leafy canopy that shades exposed ground. This rapid coverage makes it particularly useful for competing with summer weeds and protecting otherwise bare beds or fields.

Buckwheat is also a practical choice when there is not enough time for a long-season cover crop. It can begin flowering and reach maturity in approximately 30–45 days, allowing growers in warm climates to make more than one planting during the summer. Its white flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects, while the plant’s growth helps capture nutrients and produce tender organic matter that breaks down readily after termination.

Plant after frost danger has passed and conditions are reliably warm. Buckwheat is sensitive to cold and should not be used where frost is expected during establishment. For green manure, mow or incorporate the stand at early flowering and before mature seed develops. Timely termination prevents unwanted reseeding and keeps the stems succulent enough to decompose efficiently. Because buckwheat is not a legume, it does not fix atmospheric nitrogen and does not need Rhizobium inoculant.

• Scientific Name: Fagopyrum esculentum
• Growth Cycle: Fast-growing warm-season annual broadleaf
• Application Rate: 3 lb per 1,000 sq ft or 60–80 lb per acre
• Inoculant: Not required. This is a nonlegume cover crop and does not rely on Rhizobium bacteria for nitrogen fixation.
• Germination: Approximately 5–7 days under warm, suitable conditions
• Plant Height: Approximately 8 inches to 3 feet
• Days to Maturity: Approximately 30–45 days
• Uses: Rapid summer soil cover, weed competition, beneficial-insect habitat, green manure, nutrient cycling, and organic matter production
• Management: Plant only in warm conditions and terminate at early bloom before mature seed develops