THE SOIL AND THE SEED PROJECT
like a mustard seed
THE SOIL AND THE SEED PROJECT is a community-supported ministry working for spiritual renewal—in individuals, families, and communities—using artistic beauty to create new rhythms and spirituals practices through which we can together turn towards Jesus in the ordinary moments of life.
The project is a gift to the church, that we together give freely to any individual or community who wants it (not sold). You are a part of that community alongside the writers, songwriters, musicians, artists, poets, support staff, ministry partners (VMMissions), congregations, and hundreds of individual households who have joined in this good and holy work. THANK YOU!
The Soil and The Seed Project is a ministry of VMMissions, with Seth Crissman as project director. When supporting The Soil and The Seed Project, contributions are received via VMMissions, and all contributions are tax-deductible and are used for the work of The Soil and The Seed Project.
planting instructions for
MUSTARD SEED
35-45 Days to maturity. Brassica juncea. Farmer's Favorite Mustard Cover Crop Mix Seeds. Non-GMO, Open Pollinated, Annual. This is a blend of several mustards that work well together to provide excellent overall benefits as a cover crop, but it can also be planted by home gardeners. Farmer's Favorite is an all-in-one mustard blend featuring beautiful multicolored leaves with variable leaf shapes and bright flowers. This fast-growing blend provides great field coverage (80-88%) and weed control. The prolonged flowering time provides early spring pollinator feed and performs well in different soil types and conditions.
For those unsure about where to plant, consider even a small cup or pot on a windowsill or porch!
PLANTING
Sow the seeds in the early spring, three weeks before the last frost. In temperate climates, also sow in the fall as the weather begins to cool. Water infrequently but deeply. For maximum benefit, mustard must be irrigated or rained in, but is also known for tolerating droughts. Watering early in the day allows excess water to dry out and avoid the development of fungal diseases. Chop down, or mow, the mustard plants during flowering to incorporate the healthiest organic matter into the soil and prevent reseeding.
Mustard varieties are fantastic for cover crops because they excel at adding healthy organic matter into the soil. They produce excellent biomass (3500 to 5000 lbs per acre), which improves soil quality. The root systems also help to prevent erosion and nutrient leaching. They promote beneficial microbiomes as the roots help to retain moisture near the roots throughout the year. Mustard offers excellent nitrogen fixation at around 180 to 220 lbs per acre.
CARE
Do not allow the mustard plants to go to seed, or they may become a problem in the next crop. Cut or till in the mustard a minimum of 3 weeks prior to planting your main crop. Mustard contains a compound that prevents the germination of various seeds; this is great for weed prevention and needs to be given time to dissipate before planting the desired crop. Mustard plants tolerate droughts well due to their deep root systems that can extend as far as 5 feet down, seeking water and nutrients.
HARVEST
Other common names for the seeds in this mix are Brown Mustard, Chinese Mustard, Chinese Mustards, Giant Red Mustard, Indian Mustard, Indian Mustards, Leaf Mustard, Mustard Greens, Oriental Mustard, or Vegetable Mustard.
Mustard is being researched for phytoremediation as it helps to remove heavy metals from the soil. This removal improves the plant health of future crops, which can be hindered by metals sometimes found in the soil.
Mustard greens are edible as well. Many people harvest them to add to salads or other fresh dishes. They have that classic hot flavor of mustard. Most veterinarians discourage the use of mustard as animal feed.
This exceptional blend of mustard seed provides 80-88% field coverage. Mustard as a cover crop ensures proper soil conservation and maximum benefits to your field!
Farmer's Favorite Mustard Mix seeds mature into 3-4 foot tall brassicas with gorgeous yellow flowers.
Farmer's Favorite Mustard Mix is part of the brassica genus. All brassicas contain natural compounds called glucosinolates which are biofumigants. They work in the soil to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.