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