At first thought, it may seem that crop residue decay could hamper seed germination and new crop growth. However, residue decay and new seedling germination are driven by biological activity in the soil. Both processes can be managed to profitably break down residue while starting fall-seeded cover crops.

Due to the high cost and limited availability of commercial fertilizers over the past few years, we have largely focused on recycling valuable nutrients from crop residue. However, there are lots of other benefits from accelerating your residue decay program, including faster soil organic matter formation, fewer problems with planting and emergence, and improved weed and disease control.

One of the major challenges for the 2022 crop season is the higher cost and limited availability of commercial fertilizers. Many producers are looking at new and different ways to feed their crops while managing input costs, including the role of soil biology in managing fertility.