In non-irrigated systems, adding cover crops into the rotation can decrease crop yields if precipitation is limited; however, the use of cover crops for forage may offset costs while retaining soil benefits. This on-farm research study was designed with a system’s perspective incorporating crops, cattle and cover crops in a non-irrigated setting while including the economics of the entire system. Read more in this article from the University of Nebraska.
What should your cover crop accomplish if you are applying fall manure? First, a live plant that survives the winter and absorbs nitrogen, phosphorus, and reduces soil erosion. Read more in this article from Ohio's Country Journal.
Cover crops can directly impact water quality. With all the attention being given to improving water quality and reducing nutrient loads going into Ohio’s waterways, farmers are encouraged to consider a multifaceted approach of best management practices (BMP’s) that include the use of cover crops. Read more in this article from Ohio's Country Journal.
Participate in the 2021 Cover Crop Benchmark Study to uncover some of the trending mixes, seeding methods and innovative opportunities to put to work on your farm.
February 18, 2021
Take part in the 2021 Cover Crop Benchmark Study by sharing, learning and comparing your cover crop practices with your peers. The survey takes less than 15 minutes to complete.
Before heading to the field this season, there are some maintenance items on your planter that you should consider addressing. Some items can be done in the off-season in the shop while others should be addressed in your first field. Read more in this article from Iowa State University Extension.
Cover crop use was steadily rising on farms in the early 2000s, with 60% of corn growers reporting their use. But in recent years consistency has wavered. Read more in this article from North Carolina State University.
The use of a roller crimper to terminate cover crops in the spring is gaining popularity. Many farmers often ask if the blades on a crimper should touch the ground, or how much clearance should be allowed. Read more in this article from Ohio's Country Journal.
Although wheat stem maggot has been a concern for some Nebraska farmers who plant corn directly into a growing cover crop, entomologists at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln want farmers to scout their fields before adding an insecticide to the herbicide during cover crop termination. Read more in this article from the Aberdeen News.
As fertilizer costs increase, farmers want to either lower their fertilizer costs or find ways to conserve soil nutrients. Cover crops can help do both things. Read more in this article from Ohio's Country Journal.
AGCO is conducting agronomic research trials and field demonstrations in 2021 to help farmers successfully add soil carbon sequestration to their farming operations.
The National No-Tillage Conference returns January 7-10, 2025!Build and refine your no-till system with dozens of new ideas and connections at the 33rd Annual National No-Tillage Conference in Louisville, Ky. Jan. 7-10, 2025. 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 week we had boots on the ground at the Big Soil Health Event in Cedar Falls, Iowa where agronomist David Kleinschmidt emphasized the importance of considering Carbon to Nitrogen ratios of cover crops and residues.