Abstract
AbstractBroadcast interseeding cover crops in corn (Zea mays L.) from the V2–V7 corn growth stages provides farmers the opportunity to establish cover crops over large areas quickly compared with drill interseeders. The objectives of this research were to evaluate broadcast interseeded cover crop establishment and biomass production as well as cover crop effect on corn grain yield in farmer's fields in Michigan. In 2017 and 2018, annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.), crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum L.), and oilseed radish (Raphanus sativus L.) were broadcast interseeded at the V3 and V6 corn growth stages in nine farm fields. Cover crop density was measured 30 d after interseeding; cover crop density and biomass were measured in October prior to grain corn harvest. Cover crop density varied across site‐years; annual ryegrass usually had the highest density. Fall biomass production of oilseed radish was usually equal to or greater than annual ryegrass and crimson clover biomass. Rainfall during the interseeding period improved cover crop emergence. Cover crop density and biomass were higher in sites that were tilled prior to corn planting compared with no‐till, likely due to better seed to soil contact. Grain yield did not differ in the cover crop vs. no cover crop control treatments. Successfully establishing cover crops by broadcast interseeding in corn is dependent on specific location conditions; conventional tillage and rainfall improved establishment and biomass production.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.