Evaluating Manure Application and Cover Crop Planting Timing to Maximize Water Quality Benefits in Corn

Issue

This project aims to provide valuable insights into the impacts of different cover crop systems and manure application methods on water quality and corn yield.

Objective

Overall, this project seeks to enhance sustainable agricultural practices by providing comprehensive data on the interactions between cover crop systems, manure application methods, water quality and corn yield.

Approach

Specifically, the research will directly compare water quality and corn yield performance between a winter annual cover crop system, using cereal rye, and a perennial ground cover system with Kentucky bluegrass. This comparison will help determine which cover crop system is more effective in promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Additionally, the project will examine the outcomes of hand-interseeded cereal rye (used as a proxy for aerial seeding) versus post-harvest drilled cereal rye. By evaluating the establishment timing of these cover crops, the study aims to identify the most effective method for improving water quality and maximizing corn yield. Furthermore, the research will assess the drainage water quality associated with Poa bulbosa ground cover, providing crucial insights into the impact of this ground cover on water resources.

The project will also finalize the optimal timing for manure application when used with cover crops. It will evaluate the performance of cover crops with spring manure application, comparing results to data collected in previous studies for early fall and late fall manure applications. This analysis will help determine the best practices for integrating cover crops with manure application to enhance soil health and crop yield.

Finally, the study will evaluate the effectiveness of split manure application, specifically applying 100 pounds of nitrogen manure in the fall and 50 pounds of UAN (urea-ammonium nitrate) as a sidedress. This approach aims to optimize nitrogen use efficiency and minimize environmental impacts.