This research project compares how several different cover crop species perform when broadcast seeded into soybeans just before soybean leaf drop. This is important to farmers because many struggle to get cover crops planted after soybean harvest. Broadcasting cover crops can open the planting window to species other than winter cereals or allow a farmer who usually doesn’t have enough time to plant cover crops in the fall to grow a winter cereal. The results from this study will help growers decide whether broadcasting into standing soybeans might be a worthwhile practice on their farms.
Swift Aeroseed worked as a contractor in this multi-year research project. In October 2022, we seeded 40 acres on 3 dairy farms in Adams and Cumberland County using different multi-species seed mixes containing rye grass, three varieties of clover (red, crimson, and Lidino), radish, and crown vetch. We met with Penn State researchers onsite prior to seeding and continued to work with the farmer post seeding. Findings suggest seeding earlier with greater lbs per acre for better results.
In September 2023, we broadcast seeded 15 acres to test timing with germination rates of cereal rye into soybeans. We seeded at three different times, before leaf drop, when leaves started to yellow and drop, and after leaf drop. Findings suggest seeding before leaf drop to maximize benefits like soil cover and moisture from dew drop from the fallen leaves.
Findings were published in Cover Crop Strategies by the project lead, Heidi Reed, Penn State Extension.
