COVER CROPS
Cover crops are planted to preserve topsoil during crop-free periods on fields.
There are many benefits that can be accomplished by integrating this
practice into your farm plan.
Benefits of Cover Crops
Cover crops are planted to preserve topsoil during crop-free periods on fields. There are many benefits that can be accomplished by integrating this practice into your farm plan.
- Increased Yields - Improved Soil Fertility - Erosion control
- Weed control - Insect control - Reduce compaction
- Biodiversity - Increase water retention
Managements of Cover Crops
There are many factors to considering when determining if cover crops are a fit for your farming practices.
What are your goals? Termination of crop
- N management - Tillage
- Soil retention - Herbicide
- Supplemental Grazing - Grazing then tillage
- Compaction - Winter kill
Helpful websites:
Midwest Cover Crop Council Website MCCC Decision Tool
www.mccc.msu.edu www.mccc.msu.edu
Illinois Department of Agriculture
www.agr.state.il.us/covercrops