To borrow a phrase, the first step is always the hardest. Taking the first step in planting cover crops or multi-species forage mixes are no exception and requires some careful analysis before deciding on what’s right.
Soil type, soil biology, and rainfall for each farm, as well as goals and expectations of cover crops can all differ widely, says Graeme Finn, founder of Union Forage, in this interview at Ag in Motion.
Finn says that because there are so many factors to consider, it’s important to consult with someone who is knowledgeable in forage agronomy in order to narrow down what might fit with specific farm goals.
One question that often comes up in the cover crop discussion is the need for multi-species, but Finn says that while cover crops can benefit the diversity both above and below ground, it is a good idea to take a moderate approach to trialing new mixes on the farm. Especially when starting out, a simple oat and pea mix might work well.
That said, incorporating livestock grazing into any cover cropping plan is an excellent way to bring that all-important animal impact into the soil building equation, says Finn.
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