Cover crops are known to produce many conservation benefits. However, grower adoption remains low due to various issues and poor economic returns. This study was conducted to identify factors and management practices needed to integrate cover crops into Midsouth corn production systems. The effects of cover crop species, herbicide termination timing, and mechanical termination methods on the growth, grain yields, and economic returns of corn [Zea Mays (L.)] were investigated in Mississippi. The presence of living cover crops at planting stunted corn growth when they were not terminated by herbicides at least four weeks preplant. A legume cover crop reduced corn yield only when it was terminated at planting. The inclusion of a legume benefited the system compared to cereal rye. Cover crops produced neutral to negative crop yields, and all treatments reduced economic returns. Negative economic returns and production risks will likely limit cover crop adoption by corn growers.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:MSSTATE/oai:scholarsjunction.msstate.edu:td-7317 |
| Date | 13 August 2024 |
| Creators | Mullican, Nolan |
| Publisher | Scholars Junction |
| Source Sets | Mississippi State University |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | text |
| Format | application/pdf |
| Source | Theses and Dissertations |
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