homestead how-to

Plants to Grow for Naturally Healthier, Richer Soil

These fast-growing plants have deep roots that can access an abundance of nutrients from deep underground, making them available to shallower-rooted plant companions.

Comfrey

Peas are the multitaskers of the plant world. They fix nitrogen in the soil, feed pollinating insects, and offer a bountiful yield of delicious pods.

Peas

It is known as a pioneer plant as it frequently grows in poor soil, where its deep tap root can break up compacted earth and draw up minerals.

Plantain

Fava beans can be grown as an edible crop or chopped down before flowering for green manure.

Fava Beans

Beautiful lupines belong to the same plant family as peas and beans, the gorgeous spires of blue, purple, and pink flowers  don’t just look pretty – they also boost nutrients in the soil by fixing nitrogen from the atmosphere.

Lupines

Their deep taproots break up compacted soil and pull up nutrients, plus they provide seed for birds and food for pollinators and add a cheerful vibe to your garden.

Sunflowers

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