Species mixtures are often recommended over single- species cover crops or sod crops because the mixtures tend to use resources more fully and provide a more diverse habitat. Except in situations where a legume would not establish well, or where the nitrogen-fixing power of legumes is not desired, at least one legume and one non-legume are recom- mended. Some growers establish a sod-forming crop between rows of a cash crop, forming a living mulch which provides soil-improving benefits without taking land totally out of vegetable production. The sod-crop typically must be carefully managed to limit competition with the cash crop for nutrients and water