DUAL PLANTED COVER CROPS: SYNERGY EFFECT
Applied Research
Alan Sundermeier
Extension Educator
The Ohio State University Extension
BOWLING GREEN
Abstract
\r\n When oilseed radish and winter pea cover crops are planted together, a synergy effect results in increased biomass and corn yield compared to individual plantings. Alternate rows spaced 15 inches apart in a splinter planter, allow singulated seed placement of the cover crops at rates appropriate for each cover crop. The oilseed radish benefits from the nearby nitrogen produced by the winter pea, resulting in increased cover crop production. A replicated trial studied the effect of corn yield produced with radish and winter pea cover crop compared to no cover crop. Results showed a significant yield advantage of 14.5 bushels per acre when this cover crop combination was utilized. This trial had no commercial nitrogen added, suggesting that the cover crop combination contributed significant amounts of nitrogen for corn production. The dual planted cover crops reduced soil compaction by 100 pounds per square inch when measured with a penetrometer. Dry biomass was calculated at maximum fall growth of the cover crops. Oilseed radish by itself produced 3.5 tons per acre. When winter pea was added to the oilseed radish planting, 4.8 tons per acre of oilseed radish were produced. The dual planted cover crops produced significantly more dry tons of biomass than if planted alone.
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Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: J. Hoorman, A. Sundermeier
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Hoorman, J. Extension Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Ohio, 45822
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Sundermeier, A. Extension Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Ohio, 43402