[mumofstig]

things like mustard and phacelia can just be cut and left on the top - buy planting time in spring they've just rotted away and the worms have done the work - stronger growing plants need to be buried by digging them in.

[gremlin]

I also use mustard and phacelia a lot, but when it dies down I gather it up with a rake and put in in the compost bin (with a bit of jumping up and down )  Easier than digging in specially.   

You do have to catch the phacelia before it seeds.    Mustard has never run to seed for me.

[mumofstig]

I sow both later in the year, so they don't get to flower and as I said - I don't dig them in........I leave them on the surface to rot. 

[mrswashi]

Thankyou all
For your replies, all useful,
I know I'm going to love this forum
Manda

[Annen]

Thank you all too.  On the strength of your replies I have, this afternoon sown some vetch and winter tares left over from a couple of years ago.  I don't know whether they will germinate but I'm giving it a go.

[ryetek]

Have you noticed poor germination of seeds straight after green manure?

In addition to what BabbyAnn said, some green manures also release a chemical that inhibits the growth of small seeds. They should be dug in at least a month before small seeds are sown.

[pdblake]

Have you noticed poor germination of seeds straight after green manure?

In addition to what BabbyAnn said, some green manures also release a chemical that inhibits the growth of small seeds. They should be dug in at least a month before small seeds are sown.

I believe that rye does this and that it should be left for upto six weeks after digging in. Saying that though, you can put spuds and sets in, or plant direct. It should give everything a headstart on the annual weeds.

[sion01]

I've used green manure for 4-5 years now and I think that along with coverig my clay soil over winter where and when it's possible that the green manure has improved it a lot.The soil is much lighter with much more worms and  easier to work.Its worth having a go