MSU Cover Crop Demonstration Plots Open for Tours

Monday, October 16, 2023

Michigan State University is offering a unique opportunity. For the first time, the cover crop demonstration plots at the MSU Mason Research Farm are open to the public daily until October 31, from sunup to sundown.

These plots provide an excellent chance for visitors to take a self-guided tour through a variety of cover crop recipes. You'll find both the "tried and true" and emerging options, all planted after a wheat crop. Educational signs within the plots guide visitors through the various cover crop recipes, offering insights into the seeding rate, planting method, timing, and estimated seed cost per acre.

Here are some of the highlights of these demonstration plots:

Single Species Plots: These plots showcase single species planted at both the low and high ends of the suggested seeding rate range.
Mixes for Different Purposes: You can explore two-, four-, and six-way mixes designed for various goals, including nitrogen fixation, biomass production, forage quality, and even mixes that might present challenges in the spring.
Planting Method Comparison: There are recently planted plots comparing establishment following different planting methods, such as broadcast versus drill.

The cover crop demonstration plots are conveniently located at the MSU Mason Research Farm, situated at 1614 Okemos Rd, Mason, MI 48854. To reach the site, head south on Okemos Road and make the first left onto Lamb Road. Follow the field signs, and when you reach the culvert off Lamb Road, you've arrived.

Cover crops are increasingly becoming a common sight on farms across Michigan. When managed correctly, they can provide a wide range of benefits to farmland and the surrounding communities, according to MSU Extension.

Cover crops can help build soil organic matter, reduce erosion, prevent soil and nutrient loss, and even create supplementary grazing opportunities for livestock.

Selecting the right cover crop species or mix to meet specific goals can be a complex process. If you're considering planting cover crops this fall, you can explore resources available through MSU Extension and contact your local MSU Extension educator for guidance.

Photo Credit: minnesota-corn-growers-association