Field into a garden?

[Eholt1234]

I have about five acres that have been growing grass and hay for many years. I want to turn the five acres into rotational yearly crops but the grass is currently about three feet high and at seed. Should I mow in down, plow it under, till it, or remove it? Trying to prepare for next years harvest. Thanks

 

[Bartcephus]

I would mow it, plow it with a sub-soiler or middle-buster (to find the buried treasure) and then till it. Wait a week or so, spread some fertilizer or manure and till again. Then plant. This should give any plantings a good head start on weeds. But if your in a rush plow, fertilize, till, plant and then get a cultivator to weed after planting. Next year will be even better if you winter your bed with more manure, compost and till again.

Best Regards,
Bart