Peaceful Valley Cold Zone Soil Builder Mix - Raw Seed (lb)

Peaceful Valley Cold Zone Soil Builder Mix is designed for growers who need a fall-planted cover crop to survive conditions that would damage less hardy legumes. The blend combines 70% Purple Vetch with 30% Cereal Rye, pairing a nitrogen-fixing legume with a cold-tolerant grain. Once well rooted, the stand can tolerate temperatures below 0°F and resume vigorous growth when conditions improve.

Each component performs a different job. Purple vetch supplies nitrogen-rich growth and trailing vines, while cereal rye establishes an upright framework, captures residual soil nitrogen, and provides fibrous roots and carbon-rich biomass. Together they offer more balanced erosion control, weed competition, and residue than either component would provide alone. The rye also supports the vetch as it climbs, helping keep the mixed stand more upright.

Plant in fall for overwintering coverage or in early spring where a shorter cool-season window is available. This is a raw-seed mix, so inoculate before planting to support nodulation of the purple vetch. Spring growth can become substantial; plan termination around the needs of the following crop. Mow or incorporate before mature seed develops, and allow enough time for the rye residue to begin decomposing before planting. Earlier termination creates softer material, while later termination produces more biomass and a heavier residue.

• Season: Cold-hardy cool-season cover crop mixture
• Contains: 70% Purple Vetch and 30% Cereal Rye
• Application Rate: 1–2 lb per 1,000 sq ft or 40–50 lb per acre
• Inoculant: Strongly recommended for effective nodulation and nitrogen fixation. Use Pea Vetch Lentil Inoculant (treats 100 lb), Garden Combination Mix Inoculant (treats 8 lb), or Garden Combination Mix Inoculant (treats 50 lb). Choose the package size that matches the amount of seed being planted, and plant promptly after treating the seed.
• Germination: Approximately 5–10 days, depending on soil temperature and conditions
• Plant Height: Up to approximately 5 feet
• Uses: Nitrogen fixation, winter soil protection, weed competition, erosion control, green manure, and forage
• Cold Tolerance: Established, well-rooted plants can tolerate temperatures below 0°F
• Management: Terminate before mature seed develops and allow incorporated rye residue time to begin decomposing