Measuring the Effectiveness of Different Planting Techniques for Winter Cover Crop Establishment.

Maryland pays participating farmers who plant cover crops with a tier-based system that encourages early planting. A variety of planting techniques [no-till drill into either previous crop residue or tilled soil; broadcast seed and lightly incorporate; broadcast seed and chop residue (generally corn stalks); and aerial seeding into growing crop] are recognized procedures for establishing cover crops. Opinions vary about the agronomic, economic, and nutrient management benefits for each of these planting techniques. Farmers are primarily concerned about input costs and time associated with planting while nutrient regulatory agencies desire adequate stand establishment to maximize nutrient uptake. While considerable cover crop research has been done in the mid-Atlantic, a comparative study of cover crop planting techniques has not been performed.  The objective was to evaluate and compare cover crop establishment and performance using different seeding methods following corn (Zea mays L.) harvest.  Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and rye (Secale cereale L.) were evaluated using the above-mentioned planting techniques, plus broadcasting seed with no method of incorporation.  Treatments were planted early (~ October 1) and late (~November 1) at two Maryland locations in 2007 and 2008.  Treatments were assessed weekly for seedling emergence following planting.  Biomass production and nitrogen uptake were measured during mid-winter and again in early spring both years.  Despite dry soil conditions in 2007, the drilled treatments had the best seedling emergence, biomass production, and nitrogen uptake at both sites and for both planting dates. First year results indicate that early planting of cover crops using a method that provides seed incorporation with the soil will establish better stands and consume more nitrogen than broadcast operations with no incorporation.  Data for 2008 planting is still being analyzed and will also be summarized in the poster.