AMES, Iowa — As grower interest in incorporating cover crops into production systems steadily grows, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach hosts field days to showcase results from experiments using cereal rye cultivars.
The event will be held at the ISU Horticulture Research Station June 1 from 4-6 p.m. The station is located at 55519 170th Street in Ames.
ISU Extension and Outreach researchers planted several cereal rye cultivars (Aroostook, Elbon, Wheeler and Wrens Abruzzi) at two different dates (September and October) during 2016. The field day will share the results of the plantings and investigate crop establishment, percent cover, and biomass generation.
Information on using a roller crimper to terminate cover crops will also be presented. Sustainable and organic growers use very few or no chemicals to terminate their cover crops. For many cover crops, especially rye, roller crimping is a sought-after termination method. Demonstrations will include operation of a Rodale Institute designed roller crimper. Other equipment from the research station will also be available to view.
The workshop is free for all to attend and is supported by the Iowa Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association, Practical Farmers of Iowa, the Leopold Center and the North Central Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program. Light snacks and drinks will be provided.
Those planning to attend need to register online at https://www.extension.iastate.edu/vegetablelab/.
— Ajay Nair, Iowa State University Extension Commercial Horticulture Specialist
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