Cover crops offer numerous environmental and agronomic benefits, including improving soil health, enhancing water infiltration, cycling nutrients, boosting yields and providing overwintering habitats for beneficial insects. However, achieving these benefits requires careful management. 

To get the most from cover crops, keep these key factors in mind: 

• Monitor growth stages to prevent unwanted seed spread. 

• Allow sufficient growth to add valuable carbon to the soil. 

• Time termination carefully to ensure cover crops decompose fully before planting the next cash crop. 

Eric Brennan, a USDA Research Horticulturist, has dedicated years to studying cover crops. His insightful YouTube videos offer practical tips and research-based strategies to help growers succeed. Watch his videos here for valuable advice.