In the case of prevent plant, cover crops are one option farmers are considering for fields left unplanted. NDSU Extension soil health specialist Abbey Wick is receiving questions from area farmers on the topic. Wick says one benefit is weed control.
“If we can put something out there to compete with weed pressures alone, I think that’s going to be a win. The other thing we can do with a full season cover crop is build some soil structure.” Wick adds another consideration is what crop will be planted next year. “For example, if soybeans will be planted next year you probably don’t need a legume in that mix this year.”
In response, NDSU Extension is hosting a series of Café Talks on the subject matter. The first meetings are in Casselton and Valley City on June 17, with talks to follow on June18 in Gwinner and June 20 in Jamestown. Listen to the interview with Wick.
