There are many variables for growers to consider when they’re implementing cover-crop mixes into their no-till rotation — including mix design, carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) ratios, cash-crop goals, termination strategies and biomass management.

Growers have long enjoyed the benefits of using no-till and cover crops to enhance soil fertility, prevent wind and water erosion and improve production efficiency.

Innovative no-tiller and cowman Jake Miller utilizes strip grazing and a variety of cover mixes to diversify food sources for his cow-calf operation and improve soil quality.

Twenty-one more no-tillers share how they’re using cover crop ‘cocktails’ of every size to improve soil tilth, shade out weeds, capture and recycle soil nutrients and help reduce erosion.