Cover Crops of Kansas

Presentation byJames HartshornKansas State University

Benefits of cover crops

• Decreased erosion • Increased plant residue

Pictured: Canola

Benefits of Cover Crops

• Weed suppression (control)• Extensive rooting systems • Loosening and aerating soil• Crop diversity

Pictured: Sudangrass

Benefits of Cover Crops

Picture: Cowpea

Increased Nutrient Cycles• Nitrogen (N) (Legumes)• Potassium (K)• Phosphorus (P)

Mixing cover crops (legumes and grasses) allows for benefits of both types.• Fall cover (grasses)• Spring cover (legumes)• High nutrient cycles

Pictured: Sweet clover & wheat

Cover Crop Practices

Cover Crop Limitations

Pictured: Soybeans

• Insect infestation in cover crop• Water consumption in dry areas

Cover Crop Limitations

Economics•Added expense of labor and time•Benefits of the cover crop must out weigh the added costs

Pictured: Grain Sorghum

Cover Crops of Kansas