The “how-to” guidance on cover crops is mostly built on agricultural station experiments. That work is valuable, but not always a good mirror of what happens on a busy working farm in-season.
Cover crops are a recognized method for increasing soil health by reducing soil erosion, increasing soil organic matter and improving soil structure. Cover crops can also safeguard water quality by reducing nitrate leaching.
Findings from a newly published Weed Science Society of America research article provide integrated weed management directives for Northeast U.S. corn conservation-tillage systems.
A team of Clemson University researchers has found certain cover crops do not compete with cash crops for nutrients and water when grown in upstate South Carolina’s sandy loam soils.
The goal with interseeding cover crops into corn and soybean early in the growing season is to allow for more time for a cover crop to be established. Having more time for establishment prior to harvest can aid in suppressing weeds, capturing excess nitrogen, providing additional nitrogen, increasing diversity and establishing forage for grazing.
Planting cover crops at the right time is a key driver of cover crop productivity. This August and September, a UNL-led team tested establishment of cereal rye and a cover crop mix in 29 corn fields using a Highboy Interseeder.
The National No-Tillage Conference returns January 12-15, 2027!Build and refine your no-till system with dozens of new ideas and connections at the 35th Annual National No-Tillage Conference in Indianapolis, Jan. 12-15, 2027. Experience an energizing 4-day agenda featuring inspiring general session speakers, expert-led No-Till Classrooms and collaborative No-Till Roundtables. Plus, Certified Crop Adviser credits will be offered.
Last month I had the chance to visit with Douglas Poole on his farm in Waterville, Wash., where he is proving that no-till, cover crops and a regenerative farming system can not only work, but thrive in his part of the country.