MSU Virtual Breakfast Spotlights Cover Crops After Wheat

By Andi Anderson

Michigan State University Extension invites farmers and growers to join the Field Crops Virtual Breakfast Series on Thursday, July 24, for an informative session on cover cropping after wheat harvest.

The session will feature Brook Wilke, PhD, associate director for science and agronomy at the Kellogg Biological Station, known for his expertise in sustainable cropping systems.

Wheat harvest opens a prime window for planting cover crops in Michigan. These crops offer many benefits, including nitrogen fixation, improved soil health, weed suppression, and better moisture management.

However, careful selection and management are critical to avoid negative impacts on future crop rotations.

Wilke will present five reliable cover crop options suitable for post-wheat planting. He will share insights from research and experience, helping farmers choose cover crops based on expected outcomes and management needs.

Following the main topic, MSU agricultural meteorologist Jeff Andresen will provide a detailed weather outlook. The Virtual Breakfast Series features weekly Thursday morning sessions from 7 to 8 a.m., March through September. Each session includes an expert presentation, weather forecast, and a live Q&A segment with MSU specialists.

Participation is free and easy. Farmers can join via Zoom on a computer, tablet, smartphone, or phone call. New users need only download the Zoom app. To receive access links and weekly reminders, participants must sign up once and will then receive regular updates.

RUP credits and CCA continuing education units are offered most weeks to live participants. Those who miss the live session can watch recorded versions online, though credits are only available for live attendance.

Recordings and updates are available on the MSU Extension Field Crops Virtual Breakfast webpage, Facebook, Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Twitter/X.

For registration help, call the Montcalm County MSU Extension office at 989-831-7500.

Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu-extension