University of Arkansas researchers have published the first fact sheet in a series about using cover crops.
The crops, typically grown in the off season or winter, help save water, manage weeds and improve soil.
“While cover cropping is not a new concept, crop rotations, management practices and types of crops grown have changed a lot in the last 30 years,” says Trent Roberts, associate professor-soil fertility, for the university’s Division of Agriculture and principal author. “Successfully implementing cover crops requires planning for success, and the more information we can get in producer’s hands the more benefits they can realize.”
The first fact sheet discusses cover crop common to Arkansas, crop selection, crop management and keys to success.
Future fact sheets will focus on specific cover crop species. If growers have specific cover crops or cover crop topics in mind, Roberts invited them to contact him at tlrobert@uark.edu.
“Understanding Cover Crops” is available for download at https://www.uaex.edu/publications/pdf/FSA-2156.pdf