On-Farm Cover Crop Trials

Abstract

<p>Cover crops can benefit farmers by aiding in erosion control, increasing organic matter in the soil, and reducing nitrate losses into the surface waters. Cover crops also have been promoted to alleviate soil compaction and improve soil drainage. Cover crops are an important practice in meeting Iowa’s nutrient reduction strategy goals. However, some research indicates that planting corn following a rye cover crop can result in corn grain yield losses, especially if the cover crop is not killed at least two weeks prior to planting the corn. The objective of these trials was to evaluate whether a fall-seeded small grain cover crop would affect corn yield.</p>