NITROGEN PRODUCTION AND NUTRIENT CYCLING WITH COVER CROP BLENDS
Sustainable Agriculture
Jim Schneider
EXT. EDUCATOR
UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA
AURORA
Abstract
Cover crops are not a new concept. Prior to development of herbicides and commercial fertilizers, they were used to assist with weed control and to provide nutrients. Legumes are still used to fix nitrogen while both legumes and non legumes capture mineralized nitrogen making it available to subsequent crops as the cover crop biomass breaks down during the cropping year. A replicated cover crop research trial was planted in northeastern York County, NE August 6, 2010 following wheat harvest. The purpose of the trial was to document available nitrogen produced by the cover crops. Five cover crop blends varying in ratios of cool and warm season species of grasses, legumes and brassicas were evaluated for above ground biomass nutrients. Particular attention was paid to carbon : nitrogen ratios. Averages of above ground biomass samples taken October 11 ranged in nitrogen content from 71 to 118 lbs./acre. Carbon averages ranged 1958 to 2275 lbs/acre. Resulting C:N ratios ranged 17:1 to 30:1. Because of an abnormally late killing frost, samples were also taken November 5. Cover crop blends containing cool season legumes increased N production during the three weeks following October 11.
Authors: Schneider, J.W.
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Schneider, J.W. Extension. Educator, University Of Nebraska - Lincoln, Nebraska, 68818