Not nearly as popular as Daikon radish or winter wheat, common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) grows faster and more plentiful than even these hardy winter crops. Buckwheat is arguably the most diverse winter crop as it quickly matures to about 24-36” tall and 18-24” wide and is ideally sown as a winter cover crop, fodder crop, or pest repellent.

Similar to Daikon radish and yellow mustard, buckwheat produces a thick and deep taproot known to help increase tilth and aeration for overly compacted, heavy soils. Common buckwheat shares many of the same tolerances and ecological benefits as wild buckwheat while still boasting just as many blooms as any wildflower or ornamental.