Legumes
Peas, beans, and nitrogen-fixing crops
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to inoculate legume seed before planting?
Not essential for a home garden, but a legume inoculant introduces the specific bacteria that fix nitrogen in the roots, which can meaningfully boost both growth and the soil benefit if your soil hasn't grown legumes recently.
Should I pull out legume plants after harvest?
Cut them off at soil level instead of pulling, and leave the roots in the ground — that's where the fixed nitrogen is stored, and leaving them to break down feeds the next crop planted there.