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
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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.
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- Increased Yields - Improved Soil Fertility - Erosion control
- Weed control - Insect control - Reduce compaction
- Biodiversity - Increase water retention
Managements of Cover Crops
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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
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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
