Managing Cover Crops in No-Till Farming Systems

Abstract

Cover crops have long been used in agricultural production systems as a result of providing varying agronomic and environmental benefits. Although no-till (NT) is a leading approach to sustain crop production, reduce soil degradation, mitigate environmental concerns, and enhance ecosystem services, implementing cover crops can further enhance NT performance. In order to successfully adapt cover crops into NT systems, several factors should be considered. Goals should be determined based upon an individual’s farming system, as success of one approach may vary depending on climatic and environmental conditions or simply management approaches. Proper management of cover crops can lead to improved soil function and health, have agronomic and economic benefits, and enhance environmental quality. The objective of this chapter is to provide a background of cover crop management approaches and selected potential benefits in NT cropping systems.