Rethinking Cover Crops: A Farmer's Prescription for Soil Health

A seven species cover crop blend ahead of 2025 soybeans.

As regenerative agriculture becomes more prevalent in conversations and tailgate discussions, a concerning trend has emerged regarding the use of cover crops. Many of the recommendations we as farmers follow are based on university studies that may be outdated and not universally applicable. Agricultural practices can vary significantly from one region to another, and what's effective in one area might not work in another.

I recently came across a university study—name withheld—that concluded cover crops, specifically planting green into cereal rye, negatively impact corn yields. The study's methodology seemed flawed, as it applied conventional testing methods without considering the unique dynamics of planting into green cover crops. Such studies can be frustrating, especially when they contradict firsthand experiences.

In our operation, we've been planting green for several years and have witnessed significant improvements in soil health—enhanced organic matter, better soil porosity, and increased biological activity. However, transitioning to this practice requires careful planning and adjustments. Farmers must understand that planting into a green cover crop isn't the same as conventional or even no-till planting. It necessitates tuning equipment, adjusting fertilizer regimens, and tailoring practices to the specific needs of the cover crop and cash crop.

One common mistake is planting a grass cover crop in front of corn or sorghum without considering nitrogen tie-up or potential allelopathy effects. Such oversights can lead to yield reductions and undermine the benefits of cover cropping.

I've spoken with farmers from various regions who claim cover crops don't work in their area. When asked if they've tried them, the answer is often an emphatic no. Instead, they rely on anecdotal evidence from others who haven't had success. This approach isn't science; it's hearsay.

In agriculture, we often lament market stagnation, rising prices, and inflation. But have we examined our own practices? Are we repeating the same methods year after year without considering alternatives? If we're fortunate, we get about 60 years of cropping in a lifetime. How many opportunities have we missed by not exploring new practices?

We don't recommend diving into cover crops or planting green all at once. Start small—test a few acres here and there. There's a cover crop species suitable for every region, but it's crucial to avoid tilling the soil before cash crop planting. Tillage introduces oxygen, disrupting soil biology and negating the benefits of the cover crop.

Over the past three years of planting green, we've observed substantial increases in organic matter, water-holding capacity, and fertilizer retention. We've maintained or even improved our historical yield averages and, in some cases, reduced synthetic fertilizer inputs by up to 50%. This approach isn't about mining the soil; it's about nurturing it.

By cutting $150 to $200 per acre in expenditures annually and reducing excess fertilizers entering waterways, we not only enhance profitability but also contribute to environmental conservation. Maintaining moisture for extended periods and moving away from soil-bound residual herbicides further supports sustainable farming practices.

In conclusion, adopting cover crops and planting green isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. It requires thoughtful consideration, experimentation, and adaptation to local conditions. But for those willing to invest the time and effort, the rewards—both economic and environmental—can be significant.

-ALB