While later cover crop termination in the spring can allow for more biomass accumulation, such later termination can change the C-to-N composition of the plants impacting residue decomposition. Therefore, identifying the best time for cover crop termination to provide optimal N cycling benefits can help farmers make decisions about cover crop management.
Legumes like lupin make nitrogen available in the soil for other plants that would not otherwise have access to the precious nitrogen. Due to its resilience, lupin has real potential as a winter cover crop for farmers and growers, says the American Society of Agronomy.
Several researchers weigh in on what cover crop monocultures and mixtures do the best job of balancing nitrogen (N) sequestration to protect water quality while still contributing N to subsequent cash crops to improve yields.
The National Strip-Tillage Conference returns August 8-9, 2024!Build and refine your strip-till system with dozens of new ideas and connections at the 11th Annual National Strip-Tillage Conference in Madison, Wis. Aug. 8-9, 2024. Experience an energizing 2-day agenda featuring inspiring general session speakers, expert-led Strip-Till Classrooms and collaborative Strip-Till Roundtables. Plus, Certified Crop Adviser credits will be offered.
Georgetown, Del., no-tiller Jay Baxter was planning on conducting a cover crop experiment with oats, but when Mother Nature got in the way, he quickly pivoted to another idea for a different type of cover crop experiment.