1. Presentation by James Hartshorn Kansas State University
Cover Crops of Kansas
Presentation by
James Hartshorn
Kansas State University

2. Benefits of cover crops
Decreased erosion
Increased plant residue
Pictured: Canola

3. Benefits of Cover Crops
Weed suppression (control)
Extensive rooting systems
Loosening and aerating soil
Crop diversity
Pictured: Sudangrass

4. Benefits of Cover Crops
Increased Nutrient Cycles
Nitrogen (N) (Legumes)
Potassium (K)
Phosphorus (P)
Picture: Cowpea

5. Cover Crop Practices Mixing cover crops (legumes and
grasses) allows for benefits of both types.
Fall cover (grasses)
Spring cover (legumes)
High nutrient cycles
Pictured: Sweet clover & wheat

6. Cover Crop Limitations
Insect infestation in cover crop
Water consumption in dry areas
Pictured: Soybeans

7. Cover Crop Limitations
Economics
Added expense of labor and time
Benefits of the cover crop must out weigh the added costs
Pictured: Grain Sorghum

8. Cover Crops of Kansas