Advice on cover crops

[fendt208v]

Hi, I have a plot of land due to be planted in a orchard in the next 1-2 years. I am looking for recommendations on a cover crop that will help on organic matter and weed suppression. Been told brown mustard would be suitable for this?
Thanks

 

[Bogweevil]

If you want two year cover, ryegrass and clover, mowing as required, would suit.

If you are going to grass down the orchard perhaps you should consider sowing a suitable pollinator friendly mix now and planting into a tilled strip later?

Remember it is best to adjust pH and P, K and Mg levels before any cultivation to have quick effect.

 

[fendt208v]

That's a good option. This field is in poor health from the previous owner. I am ploughing in compost and manure yearly to help put some goodness back in. So looking a crop to plough back in.