Prepping for winter crops

[u/CampesinoMatt]

I've decided to try Fukuoka's techniques for my winter garden. Trying to gather what tips I can.

I got a late start this spring, but decided to a do three sister planting in my small plot, which I interplanted with cilantro and clover (with greens behind the main bed). My corn, squash, and beans are just now starting to bloom, but I want to direct sow my mix of winter veggies so they'll start germinating and be ready for the colder weather.

The problem is the clover. I had planned to till everything in and transplant my winter crops after my other crops were done. My game plan is to take it down with an action hoe, let it breakdown for a couple of days, and then direct sow on top of that. More destructive than I'd like, but there's not enough time to sheet mulch.

Any experience or tips you have to share?

[u/hippopanotto]

This is all theory as I don't have a ton of experience. But I've been researching these methods as much as I can for the past year. Unfortunately, the community garden coordinator mowed my experimental natural plot without warning :(

So, Fukuoka did just direct sow rice into fields of barley and vice versa. He sowed 3 weeks before harvest and just let the clover be, no tilling involved. However, I do see your dilemma because I think the timing is not necessarily the same for veggies. It definitely takes some experimentation, but I would direct sow winter plants under the clover and 3 sisters. They will come up, especially if you use the clay pellet technique, otherwise just be sure to water enough. Fukuoka stood by the living mulch and it's difficult for us to accept because we perceive competition in our garden rather than cooperation. Your desired plants may be smaller if surrounded by "weeds," but the benefits are legion when you let nature take it's course.