By Scout Nelson
Cover crops are gaining traction as a solution for better soil health, and experts Anthony Bly, a Soils Field Specialist at South Dakota State University, stand testament to this trend. Bly, who is not just an academic but also a seasoned farmer, emphasizes the significance of late season cover crops. These crops can vary based on geographic locations and specific goals.
In the vast corn-soybean landscape, incorporating cover crops might seem daunting. Yet, the solution might lie in winter annual grasses such as wheat, winter triticale, and notably, cereal rye. Cereal rye can be a pivotal tool, especially when managing water effectively.
Bly's personal preference? A 12-way mix. This mix consists of varied crops ranging from brassicas to legumes, and the selection isn't arbitrary. Each crop serves a distinct purpose. For instance, flax is incorporated as it aids in fostering mycorrhizal fungi development.
To ensure a healthy balance in the soil, both tap and fibrous roots are essential. Hence, the presence of radishes and turnips. These crops, among others, play a pivotal role in augmenting organic matter and carbon levels in the soil.
The real results are tangible, even before harvest. One can witness the vibrancy in the biological life of the soil, a crucial component for crop residue cycling.
The Conservation Technology Information Center is providing technical support to farmers in South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, focusing on improving soil health practices.
The program, led by Jerry Schmitz, aims to enhance cover crop use in corn and soybean terrains, recognizing the unique challenges of each land and implementing customized solutions to address these issues.
To support this initiative, Climate Smart Commodity grants from the USDA are stepping in, aiming to enlist 30,000 acres of cover crops in South Dakota within the program's initial three years.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-orientaly
Categories: South Dakota, Crops