Soil First Soil FirstTM

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1 Soil First Soil FirstTM PREMIUM COVER CROP SEED COVER CROP MANAGEMENT GUIDE EDITION

2 ABOUT US The people at La Crosse Seed know that selling the seed is only part of the equation, and after over 65 years in the seed Since 7, La Crosse Seed has been reliably business, you can count on that experience to help you make FROM THE GROUND UP supplying its customers with quality seed, expert advice, and prompt service. Our mission is simple, to be your preferred seed partner. We know you have options and it s our job to prove to you that doing business with La Crosse Seed is your best choice. We guide our business activities with three core values: Integrity, Dedication and Embracing Change. We feel these values create the foundation that s needed to be a reputable, customercommitted, and forwardlooking seed company. Since our inception so many decades ago, we have focused entirely on seed for forage, turf, cover crop, and conservation purposes. This focus has allowed us to build expertise in these areas without straying into more traditional crops such as corn or soybeans. We work hard to have easily accessible, knowledgeable, and friendly sales team members that can work with you to address your specific needs. Our sales team members span the upper Midwest and average 0 years in the seed business. Radish, annual ryegrass and hairy vetch aerial seeding into corn in Iowa the best decisions. We are proud to work with a group of dealers dedicated to delivering the cover crop message to the field. To find a local Soil First dealer in your area, please scan the below QR code below to add La Crosse Seed as a contact or contact one of the seed distribution centers below. La Crosse, WI Madison, WI Des Moines, IA Elwood, IN Sioux Falls, SD Lansing, MI (800) 80 (800) 567 (800) 8068 (800) 56 (877) 86 (800) Bumble bee foraging red clover in Kentucky Winter grazing triticale in Minnesota Soil First Cover Crop plot in South Dakota Forage sorghum chopped in Missouri

3 A NEW DAY IS DAWNING It s a new day in agriculture. Grain prices, livestock markets, and input costs often drive the practices we employ today and shape our strategies for a productive future. Today s farming environment allows for a healthy exchange of ideas and concepts to manage the challenges facing production agriculture. TIME TO DIG DEEPER Shifts towards cover cropping have accelerated the conversations about soil health and highlighted the belief that there s more we can be doing to protect our most valued resource, our soil. Healthy soils keep nutrients on the land, and out of our water resources. They allow for greater water use efficiency, reducing runoff and protecting plants from weather extremes. Healthy soils are more productive soils, capable of feeding an evergrowing global population. More than ever, the time is now to keep our nation s soil healthy and productive. The correct, targeted cover cropping practice is the goal of Soil First... where success starts from the ground up! The team at La Crosse Seed has carefully researched and selected a family of products capable of getting the job done. Combining solid advice on what to plant and how to manage it from establishment to removal strategies you can count on the Soil First family to help you reach your productivity goals. We invite you to think SOIL FIRST when making your cover crop planting decisions. STAY CONNECTED AT&T Visit our website for uptodate information about our cover crop seed and everchanging updates on the cover crop industry. There you can sign up for our monthly enewsletter THE DIRT filled with timely industry news and focused cover crop agronomic recommendations. Seeding Guardian Fall Rye into worked cornstalks in Indiana The notion of using cover crops is not new but for so many reasons it has reemerged as a practice that makes sense. Approved or accepted soil loss criteria we used 0 years ago is no longer tolerable today. Farm ground today is worth, times (in some cases 0 times) what is was worth just 50 years ago. A farmer s soil is by far their most valuable asset. We understand that cover crops often times might mean adjusting an entire planting system or crop cycle. Cover crops are not easy and can not be achieved without a little planning. But planting cover crops is different for a farmer than simply integrating another input like fungicides, starter fertilizer, or inoculants. Those added inputs help solve problems, albeit for one or only a few years. Conversely, cover crops offer solutions to many onfarm challenges which can benefit the health and productivity of the farm for years and years to come. Cover crops fix the current crop with a positive effect on future success. Soil First products were designed to meet the needs of farmers looking to be more productive by bettering their soil health first. We ve learned this doesn t happen overnight, but changes in the agriculture industry are opening doors to make cover crops easier to adopt and manage across the country. ADVANCES IN EQUIPMENT are allowing more flexibility for seeding cover crops, allowing growers to take full advantage of the extra growing degree days (GDD) captured while the row crop is still in the field NEW COVER CROP TERMINATION GUIDELINES set by CS and USDA s Risk Management Authority allow for easier compliance with Crop Insurance (see page 8, question 8) Throughout this guide are QR codes aimed at providing even more detailed information from our website. A smartphone with the QR code reader App will be needed to access this information. We encourage you to use these codes and visit our website at GREATER HERBICIDE RESEARCH focusing on spring control methods while answering more questions surrounding common cash crop herbicides used today and their rotational restrictions to cover crops

4 COVER CROP SELECTION COVER CROP BENEFITS The most important question to ask is What am I trying to accomplish by planting a cover crop? Identifying first what the goal is greatly increases the likelihood that expectations will be met and solutions will be built. Successful cover crop establishment is another end result of planning a strategy around getting the seed planted at the right time. MATCHING COVER CROPS TO YOUR GOAL BUILD 5 7 CREATE REDUCE SOIL EROSION: Extensive root systems cling to the top layer of your soil creating an interior shield from erosion while top growth minimizes splash and wind erosion. ORGANIC MATERIAL: As cover crops grow, die, and breakdown, they add organic humus to soil and feed soil microbes. Which, in turn, improves soil tilth, soil quality and water holding capacity. BREAK UP SOIL COMPACTION: Deep burrowing roots break through compacted soil to create pore space improving aeration, water movement and helping soil organisms flourish. PROVIDE WEED CONTROL: Cover crops create competition for winter annuals and other weeds shading them out, and preventing them from robbing valuable moisture and nutrients from subsequent cash crops with the potential of lowering herbicide requirements per acre. FINANCIAL VALUE: The above benefits create the opportunity for better yield potential in cash crops, lower input costs, and ultimately higher land values. In addition many states and counties offer costsharing initiatives for this important practice. CREATE ADD SEQUESTER NUTRIENTS: These plants aggressively scavenge and cycle nutrients from deep within the soil profile making them available in the root zone of subsequent crops to help improve yields and reduce runoff into sensitive watersheds. A NITROGEN SOURCE: Produce additional Nitrogen (N) by utilizing legumes in the cover crop mixes to fix atmospheric Nitrogen in the soil. GENERATE ADDITIONAL FORAGE: Certain cover crop species have the added benefit of being dual purpose, meaning they can provide both the benefit of a soil cover and be managed as a forage source for livestock. PROVIDE PEST CONTROL: Most cover crops that suppress weeds during the winter months can consequently reduce nematode populations. Some cover crop options cause nematode eggs to hatch prematurely in the fall, rather than the spring. This depletes egg numbers and populations because the nematodes present have no host to feed on. HABITAT FOR WILDLIFE & ESSENTIAL POLLINATORS: Fall, winter and spring cover crops create environments crucial for wildlife protection and nesting. Additionally, the biodiversity created by many cover crop systems have positive effects on native pollinators. PLANNING FOR SUCCESS No different than cash crops, a successful cover crop tends to grow from a well thoughtout plan and plenty of strategy. Here are some tips to help ensure a successful cover crop season. PROCURE SEED With cover crops and most other small seeded crops, seed production usually doesn t match up the same as traditional cash crops. That means supplies are not guaranteed and inventories can be hard to forecast. It is imperative to plan early, contacting a reputable seed dealer to ensure that a good inventory of quality, clean seed supply is available. ALLOCATE LABOR It might be difficult to stop a combine or grain cart, but seeding at the right time is so critical that it might be necessary to get a successful cover crop established unless others are available to help. Timing of seeding is often the difference between success and soso results. PREPARE EQUIPMENT The best way to seed cover crops and insure maximum seedtosoil contact is with a planter or drill. Of course, that only works if the crop is out of the field. Many GDD are often lost in September because seeding is not done until postharvest. It s important to start communicating with aerial broadcasters or highboy operators early to ensure application success. For more details on proper timing of aerial and highboy application, refer to FAQ and Key TakeaWays section at the back of this guide. PLAN AHEAD There are many variables to consider when fitting cover crops into an overall cropping system like herbicide restrictions (more on herbicides in the FAQ section at the back of the guide) and potentially altering crop maturities to allow more planting flexibility. IT MAY TAKE A YEAR PLAN TO FULLY INTEGRATE COVER CROPS, BUT THE EARLIER ANY PLAN IS LAID OUT FOR THE UPCOMING SEASON, THE EASIER IT WILL BE. For most areas in the Midwest there is at least to months of additional growing time, which is plenty of time to take advantage of cover crop growth that can reduce nutrient losses and keep important moisture from leaving the farm. Cover crops decrease nitrate leaching at lower costs than just about any other commonly used practice. Edgeoffield practices aren t as effective and don t offer the other benefits that cover crops bestow. Part of the planning process is identifying the proper planting opportunity and seeding window. Throughout this guide, our cover crop species and mixtures will be represented by seeding times that are represented in the chart to the right. These zones follow the average first frost dates across the Midwest. PLANTING WINDOWS

5 CEREAL GRAINS WHY CHOOSE A CEREAL GRAIN? Cereal grains continue to be a popular option due to their flexibility and ease of management. Cereal grains offer the producer many benefits such as erosion reduction, biomass and forage production and weed suppression opportunities. Seeding rates, forage utilization and spring management will vary based on the cereal grain. For more information on individual cereal grain options including oats and barley, refer to the planting guide on page 8. PLANTING INFORMATION: RYE GRAIN + TRITICALE FALL RYE GRAIN No later than Oct 5 No later than Oct 5 No later than Nov No later than Nov 5 Fall (cereal) rye grain (Secale cereale) has been used as a fall planted crop for decades. Very few species offer the many benefits as fall rye while allowing extended planting flexibility long into the fall. Fast growing and very hardy (hardiest of all the cereal grains) Tolerant of poor soil conditions Fights soil erosion Captures excess nutrients left from cash crops Work well in nurse environments with legumes Bears a good symbiotic relationship with brassicas Ideal for helping suppress weeds when planted at heavier seeding rates and fall forage option (best use spring, fall, winter pasture) Several sound methods for successful spring management GUARDIAN FALL RYE GRAIN 6,0008,000 seeds/lb Seeding Depth w/ Drill: / Inch Guardian Brand Fall rye grain seed was carefully screened to provide dependable results in cover cropping situations. Excellent germination and early vigor in cooler temperatures, combined with solid winter hardiness and quick spring greenup make Guardian an excellent choice for a lowrisk entry into cover cropping. Created from strong demand for reliable seed from a trusted, weedfree source Screened for purity & cleanliness Excellent germination & early vigor (allows for later fall seedings) Strong winterhardiness SEEDING RATE: VARIES WITH USE, SEE CHART ON PG. 8 Hy Octane is a new winter triticale variety that has shown favorable forage yield and winterhardiness across the Midwest. HyOctane makes a great option for fall and winter grazing, extending the season far past brassicas or coolseason perennial grasses. Reduced Awned variety to aid in livestock palatability Excellent Standability superior to Fridge, Bobcat, Pika in early evaluations early season vigor and earlier heading date than traditional varieties allows greater flexibility for potential double cropping Medium straw length (allows for easier hay wilting and silage packing) SEEDING RATE: VARIES WITH USE, SEE CHART ON PG. 8 WINTER TRITICALE Winter Triticale is a cross between wheat and rye grain, bringing together the cover crop benefits (and tonnage potential) of cereal rye with the increased feed value of wheat. Performs well on marginal land and/or poor soil environments Extremely drought tolerant Fights soil erosion Captures excess nutrients left from cash crops Growth patterns favor use with legumes and brassicas Ideal for helping suppress weeds when planted at heavier seeding rates and fall forage option (best use fall and spring pasture, silage and hay) Higher levels of digestible energy and crude protein compared to barley Hy Octane Winter Triticale and field peas in Wisconsin HY OCTANE WINTER TRITICALE SUCCESS STARTS FROM THE GROUND UP Soil First PREMIUM COVER CROP SEED TM Net Wt. 50 lbs. (.68 kg)

6 ANNUAL RYEGRASS ANNUAL RYEGRASS Even though annual ryegrass has come under more scrutiny recently as a cover crop, the species still provides benefits much needed across the Midwest: nutrient sequestration, erosion control and compaction alleviation. With proper management in areas where it overwinters, annual ryegrass should be considered as a viable option both for cover cropping systems and/or forage needs. Excellent at controlling erosion as it can establish very quickly Ability to break up hard pans and alleviate compaction by its deep root system Fibrous root system is excellent at scavenging residual nitrogen Fast establishment smothers emerging weeds and suppresses further weed development Tolerant to poor soil conditions & tolerant to flooding once established for fields where manure applications are likely Proven to help reduce soybean cyst nematode populations Beware of annual ryegrass blends harder to manage because they display different maturity stages when herbicide control is needed in the spring. SEEDING RATE: 50 (MONO); 05 (MIX) LBS/ACRE PLANTING INFORMATION: ANNUAL RYEGRASS TILLAGE ROOTMAX ANNUAL RYEGRASS Tillage RootMax Annual Ryegrass is a deep root annual ryegrass developed and tested as a superior option for cover crop and forage applications. Outstanding uniformity, easier inspring control, later maturity, and excellent nitrogen scavenging all add up to making Tillage RootMax a proven and topperforming annual ryegrass. Certified genetic purity Proven industry leader in deepsoil building roots Later maturity more flexibility in spring for management and termination ASSIST ANNUAL RYEGRASS No later than Sept. 5 No later than Sept. 5 No later than Oct No later than Oct 5 Assist Annual Ryegrass is the newest annual ryegrass selected for the cover crop market. Assist was bred for extremely early root development and superb winter hardiness. Although Assist can be utilized as a late fall forage, its primary purpose is for cover cropping. 5,000 seeds/lb Seeding Depth w/ Drill: / Inch FRIA ANNUAL RYEGRASS Fria Annual Ryegrass has long been offered by La Crosse Seed as a formidable ryegrass option for the Midwest, both for cover cropping and late season forage. Fria was developed at the University of Florida for cold tolerance, improved crown rust resistance and resistance to gray leaf spot. Fria is a late maturing diploid variety. Research from 0 at Ohio State University showed Fria # in combination of wintertolerance and fall biomass production. Fria is a diploid annual ryegrass meaning greater tolerance to grazing and typically greater carbohydrate storage for improved cold tolerance Quick producer of high levels of biomass Later maturity more flexibility in spring for management and termination KING ANNUAL RYEGRASS King Diploid Annual Ryegrass is an established, top performing variety recognized by leading cover crop experts for its winter hardiness and root mass. Initially developed at the Florida Agricultural Experiment Station, King has long been known as a dual purpose annual ryegrass suitable for both cover cropping and forage. The team at La Crosse Seed has had several years of experience with King, and it has displayed the characteristics we look for and rely on with an annual ryegrass. King is a diploid annual ryegrass meaning greater tolerance to grazing and typically greater carbohydrate storage for improved cold tolerance Improved disease tolerance (especially to rust) King exhibits superior nutritional scores great option for ensilage, dry hay, or grazing Quick and early development of root mass and depth Strong winterhardiness in extreme conditions Early studies show a synergistic effect to corn following Assist King Annual Ryegrass in Illinois

7 THE BENEFITS ARE NUMEROUS Perhaps no cover crop species has been planted on more acres recently than radish and for a good reason. The benefits of radish are numerous. Radish tubers and taproots reduce compaction and scavenge excess nutrients left in the soil from cash crops. Radish stands suppress weed growth, reduce soil and wind erosion, and increase soil microbial activity, especially when mixed with a grass or small grain cover crop. BRASSICAS There are two types of radish marketed today. Daikon types are strong biomass producers making them a great option for fall grazing. Daikon types (like Tillage Radish ) have been bred for a deep taproot. Some oilseed radish varieties (Image) provide the additional advantage of suppressing nematode populations. The oilseed varieties typically don t produce as deep of a vertical taproot, but they still alleviate soil compaction with their lateral taproots and fibrous root system. Reduces compaction and improves drainage and air & water movement (through rapid spring decay) Soaks up and releases Nitrogen and other nutrients in spring when cash crops need it most Dense seed makes for easy planting, typically reaching full growth in 6 weeks Shades out winter annuals and suppresses spring annual weeds Winterkills with temperatures in the teens SEEDING RATE: 80 (MONO); 6 (MIX) LBS/ACRE PLANTING INFORMATION: RADISH TILLAGE RADISH Over 0 years of university research and onfarm testing prove the remarkable facts: when Tillage Radish is used as a cover crop ahead of cash crops, the following results have been recorded and reported: Corn yields are up % Soybean yields are up 0% Winter wheat yields are up from 5 to bushels per acre No later than Sept. 0 No later than Sept. 0 No later than Oct. No later than Oct. 0,0000,000 seeds/lb Seeding Depth w/ Drill: / Inch Certified, unique variety with over 0 years of university research Proven research data: Yield increases for corn, soybeans and winter wheat Industryleading seed grower program assures highest purity and performance Reliable, dependable cover crop performance, no unpleasant surprises Bred for single, long taproot No early bolting IMAGE RADISH Image Nematode Radish was developed in Europe to biologically control nematodes. Image has a proven Class nematode rating (min. 0% effective) in official EU trials for nematode suppression. Image Nematode Radish controls 8 different species of nematodes including soybean cyst, cereal cyst, sugar beet cyst, root knot and clover root nematode. The roots of Image produce an exudate that triggers Heterodera nematode eggs to hatch. The plant itself is not a host for parasitic nematodes. When hatchlings attach to the root the end result is death or inability to reproduce due to poor nutrition. As the plant decays through natural or mechanical termination, glucosinolates are released thus furthering the biofumigation process. The quick growing nature of Image Nematode Radish will shade out annual weeds and is an excellent builder of organic matter. Image alleviates both vertical and horizontal compaction and winter kill at temps around 05 degrees F. The deep growing tap root along with a fibrous root system increases water filtration, water holding capacity, and loosens the soil for next year s crop. Up to 0% nematode control Alleviates soil compaction vertically & horizontally Suppresses weed growth Excellent at scavenging residual nitrogen and other nutrients Precision planted Tillage Radish planted in rows Tillage Radish (daikon type) on the left; Image (oilseed type) on the right SOIL FIRST SELECT RADISH Soil First Select Radish was selected based on performance in the field. This new daikon type radish variety was evaluated across many different soil types and environments across the upper Midwest and Transition Zone. A superior, deep penetrating taproot is one characteristic that separates Soil First Select from other radish varieties growing to a level of 6, based on soil type, region, and planting date. The upper portion of the taproot (or tuber) can grow to a length of

8 TURNIPS BRASSICAS Turnips may be the perfect dualpurpose cover crop. First, their tubers and roots penetrate the soil and cycle nutrients. Early fall planted turnips provide a massive amount of dry matter, while helping to control erosion and suppress weeds. They also work great as a forage crop, being mixed with small grains to extend the fall grazing period. While popular options like purple top turnips have large bulbs or tubers, some varieties are bred for a lesser bulb size and larger tops. These options work especially well in grazing environments, and depending on how quickly they regrow, some varieties even allow for multiple grazing cycles during the fall. Because of their small seed size, turnips tend to establish easier in aerial and broadcast applications when compared to radishes, especially in dry conditions and when seeding time may be later in the season due to late crop harvests. Excellent dualpurpose cover crop Aids in breaking up compaction Sequester excess nutrients left from cash crops Small seed size is conducive for easier planting (especially in broadcast applications) Provide good early season weed suppression Turnips should be combined with other forages, namely lesser digestible options like grass or dry hay in ruminant animals (to prevent potential livestock disorders) SEEDING RATE: 6 (MONO); (MIX) LBS/ACRE PLANTING INFORMATION: TURNIPS VIVANT BRASSICA No later than Sept. 5 No later than Sept. 5 No later than Oct 0 No later than Oct 0 0,000 seeds/lb Seeding Depth w/ Drill: / Inch RAPE SEED Rapeseed is versatile enough to be planted in the spring for a summer cover, or may be utilized in the fall for a winter cover crop. Rapeseed works great as a dual purpose crop, adapting to a wide range of soil types and conditions. Rape tends to be extremely drought tolerant and stands frost better than some of other brassicas. Because of its winterhardiness, it s common for growers to get multiple grazing cycles when feeding rape. Strong biomass production makes it great for fall and winter grazing Offers the most grazing cycles of brassica when planted in late summer/early fall Performs well in poor soil fertility conditions Likely to overwinter in transition zone and south SEEDING RATE: 6 (MONO); (MIX) LBS/ACRE PLANTING INFORMATION: RAPE SEED Young turnips growing in Ohio Vivant Hybrid Brassica is a quickgrowing brassica with very little bulb development. Vivant is best suited for multiple grazing cycle situations because of its excellent regrowth. It can be used to extend the grazing season in the fall or planted alongside warm season annuals for multiple grazings in the summer. With proper management (first grazing in 05 days AND subsequent grazing cycles every 50 days when grazed no less than ), it has the potential to yield over 5 tons of dry matter per acre. No later than Sept. 0 No later than Sept. 0 No later than Oct No later than Oct 0 0,000 seeds/lb Seeding Depth w/ Drill: / Inch Known for its quick regrowth, even under close grazing All the energy of the plant is contained in the leaves different than regular turnips Highly digestibility suitable for dairy, beef, and sheep When fed, brassicas need to be combined with other forages (no more than / of the total animal diet) to prevent potential livestock disorders SEEDING RATE: 6 (MONO); (MIX) LBS/ACRE Vivant Hybrid Brassica Overwintered rape seed growing in Kentucky

9 CRIMSON CLOVER AUSTRIAN WINTER PEAS LEGUMES Crimson clover is a dense growing annual legume that germinates quickly. It prefers well drained soils and will remain actively growing in cooler temperatures when warmer season clovers go dormant. Crimson can be planted both in the spring or fall. To maximize success in the fall, plant at least 8 weeks before frost. When planted in the spring, only plant after all danger of frost is gone. Strong Nitrogen fixing and high biomass potential N production will be greater if killing occurs after flowering Winterkills under cold temperatures Effective weedsuppressing green manure crop option for hay or grazing Needs to be planted at least 8 weeks before a killing frost Shade tolerant survives intercropping applications into standing cash crops SEEDING RATE: 05 (MONO); 8 (MIX) LBS/ACRE FIXATION BALANSA CLOVER Balansa Clover is a small seeded annual legume that is quick to establish, has excellent forage production, and is welladapted to a wide range of soil types. Established stands tolerate waterlogging and soil ph from.5 to 8.0. Balansa Clover can contribute up to 00 pounds of Nitrogen per acre. Due to the inherent cold tolerance of Fixation Balansa Clover, it can overwinter in climates where other annual clovers cannot. Crimson clover in Kansas Winter peas are a rapid growing nitrogen fixer. With a low Carbon to Nitrogen (C:N) ratio, they are quick to decompose, making for an excellent green manure crop. The forage value of peas along with their overall management are benefited when planted alongside a cereal grain. Strong Nitrogen fixer and high biomass potential N fixed will be maximized after flowering Excellent at suppressing early season weeds Winter peas should overwinter in transition zone and south; spring field peas planted in fall need 600 day development to maximize growth control mowing or forage harvest in spring will terminate peas Plant 6 weeks before first frost to maximize growth and Nitrogen production SEEDING RATE: 080 (MONO); 00 (MIX) LBS/ACRE Winter hairy vetch is a vigorous annual legume crop used for fixing Nitrogen, biomass production and enhancing organic matter. It s an excellent choice for green manure as its low Carbon to Nitrogen ratio allows for quick plant decay and even quicker capture of organic material and nutrients in the soil profile. Hairy vetch tends to be very tolerant of varying soil conditions, including low fertility environments. HAIRY VETCH Strong Nitrogen fixing and high biomass potential Great to recharge soils during winter by reducing runoff (more water enters the soil profile through pores created by the vetch residue) More cold tolerant than many other legume species used in cover crops (and will overwinter in most of the Midwest) Hairy vetch in Indiana Phosphorus scavenger Heavy mulch layer provides excellent weed suppression and erosion prevention Excellent option to plant with cereal grain (helps with spring control too) Close mowing or light disc will offer spring control (glyphosate alone doesn t work well) SEEDING RATE: 50 (MONO); 00 (MIX) LBS/ACRE Erosion and runoff reduced by balansa s impressive growth and root mass When seeded early, balansa produces large amounts of biomass, increasing soil organic matter Extremely drought tolerant Suited for low ph environments Great pollinator option Hollow stems provide greater palatability Dense growing clover provides superior weed suppression SEEDING RATE: 80 (MONO); 68 (MIX) LBS/ACRE Fixation Balansa clover in Iowa PLANTING INFORMATION: LEGUMES Winter Peas + Hairy Vetch Crimson + Balansa Clover No later than Sept. 0 No later than Sept. 0 No later than Oct. No later than Oct. 0 No later than Sept. 5 No later than Sept. 5 No later than Oct. No later than Oct. 5 HAIRY VETCH 6,000 seeds/lb Seeding Depth w/ Drill: Inch CRIMSON CLOVER 50,000 seeds/lb Seeding Depth w/ Drill: / Inch PEAS,000 seeds/lb Seeding Depth w/ Drill: Inch BALANSA CLOVER 500,000 seeds/lb Seeding Depth w/ Drill: / Inch

10 SEEDING INFORMATION NONFORAGE BENEFITS NUTRITIONAL VALUE INFORMATION ANNUAL COVER CROP FORAGE Planting Season Summer Late Sum. Fall Carbon/ Nitrogen Ratio (C:N) Seeding Rate (mono) lbs/acre Seeding Rate (mix) lbs/acre Seeding Rate (for forage) lbs/acre Seeding Depth (w drill) Seeds/lb Seeding Time Aerial Application Seeding Rate* Germination Soil Temperature Degrees Fahrenheit Days to Emergence Compaction Alleviation** Nitrogen Fixes or Scavenges Weed Suppression Crude Protein NEL, Mcal/ lb Ranking DM Days to Days,, ADF% NDF% TDN Tons Additional to st per Harvest Harvest Graze Baleage Chop Acre Daikon Radish Purple Top Turnips Turnip Tops Turnip Roots Rapeseed Crimson Clover Balansa Clover Winter Hairy Vetch Austrian Winter Peas Annual Ryegrass Oats (hay) Oats (silage) Rye Grain (hay) Rye Grain (silage) Triticale (fall) Triticale (spring) Barley (fall) Barley (spring) SF 0 Cover Starter Mix SF 0 Cover Starter Mix SF 5 NHancer Mix SF 0 MultiPurpose Mix SF 50 Field Fit SF 65 Late Grazer Mix CCS Indy Mix CCS Daytona Mix CCS Bristol Mix CCS Dover Mix CCS Charlotte Mix CCS Homestead Mix CCS Talladega Mix Wheat (hay) Wheat (silage) Peas (hay) Peas (silage) Peas and Oat Mix Medium Red Clover Forage Sorghum Sorghum/Sudan Sudan Grass Teff Grass Pearl Millet German Millet White Proso Millet Buckwheat Sugar Beet Tops : Tops : Tops = : 0: : 5: 0: 5: 0: 0: 5: 5: 0: Vegetative 0: Vegetative 0: Straw 80: Vegetative 0: Straw 70: Vegetative 0: Straw 80: Vegetative 0: Straw 80: Vegetative 0: Straw 80: 0: 5: Pea Straw : : 6: Vegetative0: leftover stalks80: Vegetative 0: :0: :0: :0: 0: 8: TOPS : ¹ Net Energy for Lactation = Energy available after subtracting digestive and metabolic losses ² Acid Detergent Fiber = Low values mean more digestible ³ Neutral Detergent Fiber = Low values mean cows can eat more Days to Harvest = Estimations based on average growing season to reach optimum quality Degrees Degrees 0 Degrees 60 Degrees Degrees 0 Degrees 8 Degrees 8 Degrees Degrees Degrees 8 Degrees 8 Degrees 8 Degrees 8 Degrees 65 Degrees 8 Degrees 8 Degrees Degrees Degrees Degrees Degrees 65 Degrees 65 Degrees 65 Degrees 65 Degrees 65 Degrees 65 Degrees 65 Degrees 65 Degrees Excellent Scavenger Excellent Scavenger Scavenger Fair Fixer Fair Fixer Fixer Excellent Fair Fixer Excellent Excellent Scavenger Excellent Fair Scavenger Fair Scavenger Scavenger Excellent Scavenger Excellent Scavenger Excellent Scavenger Excellent Fair Scavenger Fair Scavenger Excellent Scavenger Excellent Excellent Both Excellent Excellent Fixer Excellent Excellent Both Excellent Excellent Scavenger Excellent Excellent Both Excellent Excellent Both Excellent Excellent Both Excellent Excellent Scavenger Excellent Excellent Scavenger Excellent Excellent Both Excellent Excellent Both Excellent Excellent Scavenger Excellent Fair Scavenger Excellent Fair Scavenger Excellent Fair Fixer Fair Fixer Fair Both Fixer Fair Scavenger Fair Scavenger Fair Scavenger Fair Scavenger Fair Fair Scavenger Fair Fair Scavenger Fair Fair Scavenger Fair Fair Scavenger Fair Scavenger For Nutritional Comparison Alfalfa (silage) Alfalfa (hay) Corn (silage) TBD 0.56 TBD Nutrition Values vary due to differences in the forage quality of the mix components and differences in how and when each component is harvested (grazed vs. baleage) N/A N/A N/A / 00,000 AugSep 6 8 / 0,000 AugSep 6 68 / / 5,000 AprMay; AugSep / 50,000 FebMar; AugSep 65 6 / 500,000 FebMar: AugSep ,000 AugSep 060,000 AugSep 55 / 5,000 MarApr; AugOct / 58,000 MarApr; AugSep / 58,000 MarApr; AugSep / 68,000 AugOct / 68,000 AugOct / 6,000 AugOct / 6,000 MarApr; AugSep 800 / 6,000 AugOct / 6,000 MarApr; AugSep 0 / AugSep 50 0 / AugSep 05 0 / AugSep 0 / JulySep 50 / AugSep 50 5 / JulySep 50 / AugSep / AugSep 05 5 / AugSep / AugSep AugSep 50 5 MayAug 050 AugSep /,000 AugOct /,000 AugOct ,000 MarApr; AugSep 750,000 MarApr; AugSep 750 / VARIES MarApr; AugSep 8 / 70,000 FebMay; AugOct 0 60 / / 7,000 MayJuly 570 / /,000 MayJuly 05 /,000 MayJuly 8 /,00,000 MayJuly 00 / 60,000 MayAug 05 0,000 MayAug 00 : 80,000 MayAug 055 / 5,000 MayAug 5 / MayJuly NA = Not applicable; = Not recommended REFERENCES: Texas Tech University, Oklahoma State University, Iowa State University, Mississippi State University, North Dakota State University, Colorado State University, University of Florida, Michigan State University, University of Wisconsin NA NA NA NA BET TER N/A BEST BEST N/A N/A BR

11 SOIL FIRST MIXTURES 0 Cover Starter 0 Cover Starter is a backtothebasics mix with the combination of Guardian Fall Rye and daikon type radish. This mix was formulated as a low risk entry into cover cropping. The radish in the mix justifies an earlier planting in one s seeding window, and the Guardian Fall Rye allows for increased planting flexibility later in the fall. 0 Cover Starter was formulated to allow similar final stand results when planting early or later in the fall. Because only the Guardian Fall Rye will persist through winter in most areas of the Midwest, spring management will be needed the following spring (herbicide, mowing, crimping, and/or grazing). 0 will tolerate poor soil types and drought conditions in late summer Versatile option for fighting erosion and breaking up compaction This mix will capture excess nutrients left from the previous crop or manure applications Ideal for helping suppress weeds when planted at heavier seeding rates Heavier seed density makes it effective when planted via drill or broadcast applications Ideal planting times should be 8 weeks prior to first frost (Guardian Fall Rye will help harbor radish in later plantings) and fall forage option (best use spring, fall, winter pasture) Several sound methods exist to successfully spring manage the fall rye BEST USE before soybeans, corn (when controlled early spring to lessen N tieup ) SEEDING RATE: 00 LBS./ACRE USE HEAVIER SEEDING RATES LATER IN THE PLANTING WINDOW; 0 LBS./ACRE IF USING AS FORAGE SUCCESS STARTS FROM THE GROUND UP Soil FirstTM PREMIUM COVER CROP SEED COVER STARTER Net Wt. 50 lbs. (.68 kg) SUCCESS STARTS FROM THE GROUND UP Soil FirstTM PREMIUM COVER CROP SEED COVER STARTER + Net Wt. 50 lbs. (.68 kg) 0 Cover Starter + Guardian Fall Rye + Soil First Select Radish Guardian Fall Rye + Crimson Clover + Soil First Select Radish 0 Cover Starter + resembles 0 Cover Starter, however crimson clover has been added. Crimson clover will fix Nitrogen and greatly improve soil tilth. To increase Nitrogen production, early planting is necessary to maximize top growth. Much like radish, crimson clover performs best when planted 8 weeks before first frost. 0 will tolerate poor soil conditions and early broadcast applications into standing cash crops Guardian Fall Rye and daikon radish in 0 will capture excess nutrients left from the previous crop and/or manure applications Addition of crimson clover allows for Nitrogen production, greater biomass and root structure Crimson allows entire mix to decompose quicker, conserving water and lessening N tieup Versatile option for fighting erosion and breaking up compaction Ideal planting times should be 8 weeks prior to first frost (Guardian Fall Rye will help harbor radish in later plantings) and fall forage option (best use spring, fall, winter pasture) Several sound methods exist to successfully spring manage the fall rye BEST USE before soybeans, before corn or other grass crops (controlling early in spring will keep C:N ratio of the fall rye low) SEEDING RATE: 00 LBS./ACRE USE HEAVIER SEEDING RATES LATER IN THE PLANTING WINDOW; 0 LBS./ACRE IF USING AS FORAGE

12 SOIL FIRST MIXTURES 5 NHancer Oats + Soil First Select Radish + Fixation Balansa Clover + Peas + Crimson Clover When planted early, 5 NHancer can produce up to 5 units of Nitrogen. 5 was formulated for maximizing Nitrogen fixation preceding corn, sorghums, and other row crops. The oats in the mix serve as a carrier to aid in mix establishment and application consistency. 5 contains mostly legumes which need to be planted earlier in the planting window to maximize root growth and subsequent Nitrogen fixation. Strong Nitrogen fixing mix delayed control in the spring equals greater N production (as legume top growth contains up to 0% of Nitrogen) Nitrogen fixing will vary based on planting date, climate, and time of control in spring Versatile option for fighting erosion and breaking up compaction Ideal planting times should be 8 weeks prior to first frost Fall forage option (best use fall, winter pasture) BEST USE before corn or other grass crops (early planting maximizes biomass which equals greater N fixing) SEEDING RATE: 00 LBS. /ACRE USE HEAVIER SEEDING RATES LATER IN THE PLANTING WINDOW; 0 LBS./ACRE IF USING AS FORAGE SUCCESS STARTS FROM THE GROUND UP Soil FirstTM PREMIUM COVER CROP SEED NHANCER Net Wt. 50 lbs. (.68 kg) SUCCESS STARTS FROM THE GROUND UP Soil FirstTM PREMIUM COVER CROP SEED MULTIPURPOSE Net Wt. 50 lbs. (.68 kg) 0 MultiPurpose Winter Triticale + Soil First Select Radish + Vivant Brassica + Forage Collards + Peas 0 MultiPurpose was created as a fall and early winter source of forage. Hy Octane Triticale is the base for 0 triticale is a blend of cereal rye and winter wheat providing the benefits of cereal rye s forage production with winter wheat s overall forage quality. The daikon radish and Vivant Hybrid Brassica provide multiple grazing opportunities while the peas offer the dual flexibility of both grazing or baleage/silage. To capitalize on production, seeding times for 0 MultiPurpose should be focused around late summer or very early fall. Adaptable for multiple uses controlling erosion, capturing excess nutrients and producing Nitrogen Suitable fall grazing and/or spring hay or silage environments Versatile option for fighting erosion and breaking up compaction Ideal planting times should be 60 weeks prior to first frost (HyOctane Triticale will help harbor radish and legumes in later plantings) and fall forage option (best use spring, fall, winter pasture) Several methods exist to successfully spring manage the winter triticale if not harvesting as forage BEST USE designed for maximizing biomass on open opportunity ground late summer and/or early fall; can be utilized prior to any cash crop when taken off as forage SEEDING RATE: 00 LBS. / ACRE USE HEAVIER SEEDING RATES LATER IN THE PLANTING WINDOW; 5060 LBS./ACRE IF USING AS FORAGE

13 SOIL FIRST MIXTURES 50 FIELD FIT SPRING OATS + SOIL FIRST SELECT RADISH + TURNIPS Soil First Late Field Fit mix is the answer when looking for a simple cover crop that will likely not overwinter. The components of Field Fit will prevent erosion, breakup compaction and improve soil conditions all while presenting opportune spring field conditions with little management. When planted early, Field Fit will produce large amounts of biomass aimed at weed suppression, moisture retention, and building organic matter. Perfect fit for first time cover crop users and experienced producers looking for reduced management in the spring Excellent option for multiple grazing periods in the fall BEST USE After any cash crop that allows sufficient growth prior to the fall frost; can be utilized in front of either corn or soybeans SEEDING RATE: 50 LBS. /ACRE USE HEAVIER SEEDING RATES LATER IN THE PLANTING WINDOW; 050 LBS./ACRE IF USING AS FORAGE 65 LATE GRAZER PEARL MILLET + SOIL FIRST SELECT RADISH + SUNN HEMP Soil First Late Grazer Mix was formulated to provide both ground cover in late summer and transition into a viable late season grazing option for livestock producers. Late Grazer takes advantage of warmer temperatures in early summer/late fall and utilizes pearl millet for greater forage flexibility. Pearl millet presents no threat of prussic acid poisoning. Takes advantage of warmer, dry weather in summer and outperforms the production of traditional perennial forages Tolerates poor soil and ph environments No threat of prussic acid poisoning BEST USE After heat and accumulating enough growing degree units; formulated to maxi mize biomass growth when planted early and still provide safe forage well into fall SEEDING RATE: 50 LBS. /ACRE USE HEAVIER SEEDING RATES LATER IN THE PLANTING WINDOW; 05 LBS./ACRE IF USING AS FORAGE 65 Late Grazer Mix seeded in Nebraska PRECISION PLANTING (PP) IOW SPACING. REFER TO BAG LABEL FOR SEEDS/LB. CAN USE COMPARABLE SEED Drilled (7.5 Rows Seeding Rate lbs/acre) SEEDING PLANTING ON DRILL CHART WINDOW DRILL SETTINGS SMALL SEED BED BOX? DEPTH (INCHES) (WEEKS BEFORE FROST) CHART SOIL FIRST SELECT MIXES to 0.5 to 0 Wheat No Kinze Brush Meter w/ Backing Plate (60 Cell Milo Plate) SF 0 Cover Starter Rye + Soil First Select Radish to 0.5 to 0 Wheat No Kinze Brush Meter w/ Backing Plate (60 Cell Milo Plate) SF 0 Cover Starter + Rye + Crimson Clover + Soil First Select Radish to 0.5 to 0 Oats No Kinze Brush Meter w/ Backing Plate (60 Cell Milo Plate) SF 5 NHancer Oats + Soil FIrst Select Radish + Fixation Balansa Clover + Peas + Crimson Clover to 0.5 to 0 Wheat No Kinze Brush Meter w/ Backing Plate (60 Cell Milo Plate) SF 0 MultiPurpose Winter Triticale + Soil First Select Radish + Vivant Brassica + Forage Collards + Peas 0.5 to 5 Oats No Kinze Brush Meter w/ Backing Plate (60 Cell Milo Plate) SF 50 Field Fit Oats + Soil First Select Radish + Turnips.50 to 5 Wheat No Kinze Brush Meter w/ Backing Plate (60 Cell Milo Plate) After last frost in /8 weeks prior to frost date SF 65 Late Grazer Pearl Millet + + Soil First Select Radish + Sunn Hemp Tillage Radish to 0.5 to 6 Alfalfa (reduce by 0%) Yes Small Sugar Beet Plate Yes Kinze Brush Meter w/ Backing Plate (60 Cell Milo Plate) Tall Fescue (reduce by 0%), Crested Wheat Grass (reduce by 0%) or Annual Ryegrass to 0.5 to.50 Tillage Rootmax TILLAGEMAX MIXES No Kinze Brush Meter w/ Backing Plate (60 Cell Soybean Plate) to 0.5 to 5 Tall Fescue (reduce by 5%), Crested Wheat Grass (reduce by 5%) or Annual Ryegrass TillageMax Indy Tillage Radish + Tillage RootMax + CCS Crimson Clover No Kinze Brush Meter w/ Backing Plate (60 Cell Soybean Plate) to 0.5 to Tall Fescue (reduce by 5%), Crested Wheat Grass (reduce by 5%) or Annual Ryegrass TillageMax Bristol Tillage Radish + Tillage RootMax to 0.5 to 0 Alfalfa Yes Kinze Brush Meter w/ Backing Plate (60 Cell Soybean Plate) TillageMax Daytona Tillage Radish + CCS Crimson Clover to 0.50 to 5 Oats No Kinze Brush Meter w/ Backing Plate (60 Cell Soybean Plate) TillageMax Dover Tillage Radish + CCS Oats to 0 0 Wheat No Kinze Brush Meter w/ Backing Plate (60 Cell Soybean Plate) TillageMax Charlotte Tillage Radish + CCS Fridge Triticale + CCS Crimson Clover to 0 0 Wheat No Kinze Brush Meter w/ Backing Plate (60 Cell Soybean Plate TillageMax Talledega Tillage Radish + CCS Winter Forage Triticale *Information in chart provided by Cover Crop Solutions

14 ADDITIONAL MIXTURES TillageMax cover crop mixes are preferred by many farmers because they add biodiversity and amazing synergies that only nature can produce. TillageMax Mixes help multiply the benefits of cover crops, giving farmers more bang for the buck in most cases. TillageMax Mixes include exclusive varieties and highly controlled production quality. They are truly something special, grown to the highest possible quality standards to give you exceptional value for building soil health and a host of other high value benefits. Tillage Radish + CCS Oats Dover combines two excellent N scavengers Tillage Radish and CCS Oats in this mix that grows rapidly in cool weather and is ideal for quick fall cover. Dover enhances seedbeds, provides more ground cover in spring, helps control erosion, works to help control harmful nematodes, and will winter kill for easy spring management. SEEDING RATE: 5 lbs/acre Drilled; 0 lbs/acre Broardcast/Aerial Tillage Radish + Tillage RootMax + CCS Crimson Clover Indy delivers a bundle of benefits, starting with the amazing Tillage Radish taproot that drills right through tough compaction, and Tillage RootMax Cover Crop Ryegrass with its fibrous roots that are renowned for building soil structure. Add the nitrogen fixing advantages of CCS Crimson Clover and you have an outstanding option for getting more out of your cover crop program. SEEDING RATE: 5 lbs/acre Drilled; 7 lbs/acre Broardcast/Aerial Tillage Radish + Tillage RootMax In the Bristol mix, Tillage Radish breaks up soil compaction with its aggressive taproot, creating thick channels 0 or deeper. Tillage RootMax Cover Crop Ryegrass builds soil structure deeper than many ARG varieties. In combination, this outstanding cover crop mixture provides added cover in the spring prior to burndown. SEEDING RATE: lbs/acre Drilled; 5 lbs/acre Broardcast/Aerial The high performance Daytona mix delivers benefits of Tillage Radish, the only proven yieldboosting cover crop radish, and absorbs soil nitrogen and other key nutrients with its unique taproot that grows 0 and deeper. CCS Crimson Clover converts atmospheric nitrogen into plant available nitrogen, helping reduce fertilizer input while improving soil health by adding organic matter. SEEDING RATE: 0 lbs/acre Drilled; lbs/acre Broardcast/Aerial Builds Soil Structure and Adds Nitrogen In the CHARLOTTE cover crop mix, Tillage Radish breaks up soil compaction with its aggressive taproot, creating soil channels 0 or deeper. This unique nitrogen storage tank holds N and other nutrients over winter and releases them as needed by following cash crops. CCS Fridge Triticale soaks up additional N in the fall as well as in the spring, keeping any N from leaching until a cash crop can utilize it. CCS Crimson Clover add up to 50 lbs of additional N in the spring. * Clover coated and preinoculated Talladega provides a bundle of benefits, starting with Get Easy the Control amazing and Aggressive Tillage Radish Biomass taproot Planting: that drills TALL right through tough compaction. amazing The winter Tillage Radish hardy taproot that CCS drills right Winter through tough Forage compaction. Triticale excels at The winter soaking hardy CCS Fridge up Triticale any excels leftover at soaking up N any from leftover a previous N from a previous crops or Can be used as a forage crops or manure application. This is the mix you by doubling the seeding rates. need where it is certain there is plenty of N or This is the mix you need where it is certain there is plenty of N, or you you have nutrients in manure you want to catch have nutrients in manure you want to catch in the fall and release in in the fall and release in the spring. the spring. SEEDING RATE: 0 lbs/acre Drilled; 50 lbs/acre Broardcast/Aerial Tillage Radish +Tillage Sunn + CCS Sorghum Sudangrass Homestead is a true soil builder, helping restore soil health following challenging conditions like extended THIS MIX drought IS EXCELLENT or flood. FOR: Tillage Sunn is a tropical warm weather legume that thrives Planting: in dry conditions Adding biomass and poor soil, and suppresses 8 Mulching for summer crops nematodes. It can produce over 60lbs of N in 6 Summer N production weeks. Prevent CCS plant Sorghum acres Sudangrass adds Seeding plenty Rate: of Drought resistance Drilling: 5 lbs/acre biomass both in above ground and with its roots. Broadcast / Aerial: SEEDING RATE: 5 lbs/acre Drilled; Helps Not Recommended Restore Soil Health, for Nematode Broardcast/Aerial Suppression, Biomass Production, Forage Planting: Seeding Depth: Comparable seed on Drill chart is Wheat Seeding Rate: Drilling: 0 lbs/acre Broadcast / Aerial: 50 lbs/acre Precision Planting (5 with 5 inrow): 0 lbs/acre (Kinze Brush Meter with Backing Plate 60 Cell Soybean Plate) Control: It is recommended to control when CCS Fridge Triticale reaches 8 in height. Use one quart of glyphosate and one pint of a,d product to control CCS Fridge Triticale and CCS Crimson Clover and any Tillage Radish that may not have been winter killed. Seeding Depth: In the CHARLOTTE cover crop mix, Tillage Radish breaks up soil compaction Comparable seed on Drill chart is Wheatwith its aggressive taproot, creating soil channels 0 or deeper. This Seeding Rate: unique nitrogen storage tank holds N and other nutrients over winter Drilling: 0 lbs/acre and releases them as needed by following cash crops. Broadcast / Aerial: 50 lbs/acre CCS Fridge Triticale soaks up additional N in the fall as well as in the Precision Planting (5 with spring, 5 inrow): keeping 0 lbs/acre any N from leaching until a cash crop can utilize it. (Kinze Brush Meter with Backing CCS Plate 60 Cell Soybean Plate) Winter Crimson Clover Forage add up to 50 lbs Triticale of additional N in soaks the spring. up Control: It is recommended to control when CCS Fridge Triticale reaches 8 in height. Use one quart of glyphosate * Clover and add coated one pint and of a preinoculated,d product which will control TILLAGEMAX any Tillage Radish MIXES that may not have been winter killed. PLANTING TIPS & SEEDING TALL RATE amazing Tillage Radish taproot that drills right through tough compaction. Late spring after last frost to The winter hardy CCS Fridge Triticale excels at soaking up any leftover N from a previous crops or manure application. Can be used as a forage Seeding Depth: Comparable seed by on doubling Drill Wheat chart the seeding is rates. Not recommended the spring. Precision Planting (5 with inrow): lbs/acre (Kinze Brush Meter with Backing Plate 60 Cell Soybean Plate) For Forage: Increase rate 0 lbs/acre to HOMESTEAD is a true soil builder, helping restore soil health Control: following Tillage Sunn and CCS Sorghum Sudangrass kill In the Charlotte cover crop mix, Tillage Builds Radish Soil Structure breaks and up Adds soil Nitrogen compaction with Planting: its aggressive taproot, creating soil channels 0 or deeper. This unique nitrogen storage tank holds N and other nutrients over winter and releases them as needed by following cash crops. CCS Get Easy Control and Aggressive Biomass This is the mix you need where it is certain there is plenty of N, or you have nutrients in manure you want to catch in the fall and release in Seeding Depth: additional N in the fall as well as in the spring, keeping any N from leaching until a cash crop can utilize it. CCS Crimson Clover add up to 50 lbs of additional N in the spring. SEEDING RATE: 0 lbs/acre Drilled; 50 lbs/acre Broardcast/Aerial For more information, scan the below QR code to the right. TillageMax Indy Mix after corn harvest Comparable seed on Drill chart is Wh Seeding Rate: Drilling: 0 lbs/acre Broadcast / Aerial: 50 lbs/acre Precision Planting (5 w (Kinze Brush Meter with Bac Control: It is recommended to contr 8 in height. Use one quart of glypho to control CCS Fridge Triticale and CCS Radish that may not have been wint Planting: Seeding Depth: Comparable seed on Drill chart is Wh Seeding Rate: Drilling: 0 lbs/acre Broadcast / Aerial: 50 lbs/acre Precision Planting (5 w (Kinze Brush Meter with Back Control: It is recommended to contr 8 in height. Use one quart of glypho product which will control any Tillage winter killed. tropical warm weather legume that thrives in dry conditions and poor soil, and suppresses nematodes. product will control any Tillage Radish that may not have been in the midteens. A quart of glyphosate and one pint of a,d 7

15 WHICH CEREAL GRAIN DO I PLANT FOR FORAGE? WARM SEASON COVER CROPS FORAGE UTILIZATION With the greater need for quality feed sources, these cereal grain options are becoming increasingly popular as forage supplements to existing perennial hay and summer annual acres. Even though many factors are consistent across all these cereal options, differences do exist in quality and tonnage based on proper management. WHEAT Wheat has good potential for forage and is usually higher in quality than rye, triticale, and oats, but not barley. Wheat usually produces more dry matter than barley, however. Use: Fall & Pasture; Silage (boot to dough stage); Hay (boot to milk stage). TRITICALE Triticale is a cross between wheat and rye. This makes for a crop with higher yields than wheat, but lower quality. Triticale is best suited for grazing pasture. Because of its large stems, hay wilting & silage packing can be different. Use: Fall & Pasture; Silage & Hay (boot to dough stage) RYE Rye offers the advantage of being the easiest cereal grain to establish in poor soils and having the greatest cold tolerance. Rye offers the greatest production for hay or pasture ground because of its quick growth both in the fall and spring. Use: Fall, Winter, & Pasture WINTER BARLEY Winter barley is the most susceptible to winterkill of the cereal grains, consideration should be made when grazing late into the fall. Barley s value as a silage crop is the most comparable to wholeplant corn (000%). Use: Fall Pasture; Silage & Hay (boot to dough stage) SPRING OATS Can be planted in the fall, as long as it s early enough to justify 600 day production. Use: Silage (milk to dough stage); Hay (boot to heading stage) HAY PRODUCTION Hay yields often average between and tons/acre. Moisture content should be between 50% moisture. Hay quality is more maturitydependent at harvest than is silage. The most efficient time to harvest small grain cereals for hay is at earlymilk stage. This allows for the greatest compromise between forage yield and quality (quality would be greatest at the lateboot stage). To help speed up drying, a crimper is recommended when harvesting in the lateboot stage. When the opportunity exists to plant early, warm season annuals provide large amounts of biomass while easing compaction, improving soil tilth, and absorbing excess nutrients left behind from cash crops. These grasses provide quality forage suitable for all classes of ruminants (usually during periods where traditional perennial crops are less effective). Although referred to as emergency forage, summer annuals can be part of a planned cover crop program where the dual benefit of forage is the goal. TIPS FOR MANAGING SUMMER ANNUALS AND OTHER COVER CROPS FOR FORAGE Nitrate toxicity is common when fertility or manure applications are followed by a period of drought or stress. Cut plants do not lessen in their nitrate levels as they cure. If high levels are suspected, forage should be tested for a period of a few weeks until levels subside. Though often linked to summer annual grasses, increased nitrate levels can show up in most cover crops and forages. Prussic acid poisoning can occur when feeding forage sorghums after periods of drought or other stress, including frost. Toxic levels dissipate usually after weeks and will decrease when ensiled. Brassica crops can cause animal health disorders if not grazed properly. Introduce grazing animals to brassica pastures slowly (usually over 5 days). With extremely high forage values, avoid turning hungry animals out into predominate brassica pastures. Brassicas should not make up more than / of the grazing animals diet always supplement brassicas with dry hay or other grasses. Bloat can be an issue with most legume species. Reduce bloat by ) utilizing grasses alongside the legumes, ) prefill livestock with coarse hay prior to turning onto pasture ensuring animals are not turned out to fresh pasture when hungry, and ) do not start grazing when the pastures are wet from dew or rain. Grass tetany can occur when grazing lush cereal grain crops in the spring or fall. Tetany risk can be lessened by adding legumes (which offset low magnesium levels that induce tetany) and by keeping livestock out of fields recently fertilized or manured. SILAGE PRODUCTION Wheat, barley, oat, and triticale silage yields are similar 7 tons/acre of 5% dry matter forage in the boot stage and closer to 60 tons/acre when harvested in the late boot stage. Small grains should be ensiled at between 6 68% moisture. Chop length should be set finer than when harvesting corn or forage sorghum. Brassicas fed to cattle in Michigan chopping cereal grains in Illinois

16 THE DIRT ON COVER CROPS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS & KEY TAKEAWAYS GRASSES WILL CEREAL RYE HAVE AN ALLEOPATHY EFFECT ON CORN? Many people attribute the inhibition in corn growth by rye to allelopathy, the release of chemicals by one plant that inhibits the growth of adjacent plants. While rye does produce chemicals that can inhibit plant growth, under most situations the rye biomass on the soil surface is responsible for suppression of weeds rather than the release of phytotoxic chemicals. The chemicals produced by rye probably have little influence on corn growth. Research has shown that susceptibility to allelochemicals is indirectly related to seed size the smaller the seed the more susceptible the plant. The large seed of corn and its relatively deep planting depth should minimize the impact of any chemicals released by the rye cover crop. The specific reason for rye s negative effect on corn is unknown, but several factors might be involved (vs. blaming the allelopathy): The presence of rye mulch on the soil surface alters the soil environment in a way that inhibits corn growth. The mulch may delay soil warming and drying, creating a less favorable environment for corn (earlier termination reduces the amount of residue) The decaying rye biomass may tie up soil nitrogen (additional nitrogen is advised at planting to compensate) Rye may act as a green bridge for plant pathogens. The dying rye could serve as a host for pathogens that move to corn seedlings after the rye dies. Terminating rye 0 to days prior to planting corn greatly minimizes the chance of a negative impact. Burndown herbicides are more consistent at killing rye when applied to small plants; however, much of the benefit in suppressing weeds will be lost when treating the rye while it is small. Soybeans can tolerate heavy amounts of rye residue, thus early termination is not as critical when planting soybeans following cereal rye. ANNUAL RYEGRASS CONTROL IN THE SPRING Annual ryegrass has come under more scrutiny than other cover crops in recent years. The QR code below will provide all the necessary info available today, but here s the main takeaways:. Plan early and maybe plan on applications.. Tterminate prior to jointing (date of jointing varies by variety, location, and season).. Glyphosate products require translocation of hours before sunset.. Spray on sunny days above 50 degree Fahrenheit. 5. Wait at least days after freezing weather. 6. Use additives (AMS) and 0 gallons water/ acre if using glyphosate. Annual Ryegrass, 5 days after burndown CEREAL RYE CONTROL IN THE SPRING Controlling cereal grains with herbicides is fairly straight forward. Glyphosate (.5 LB AI/GAL formulation) at oz./a will be effective on most cereal grain crops up to about 6, although it is recommended to make applications prior to boot stage. Tank mixes of glyphosate plus,d and/or other residual herbicides can also be used, especially if additional broadleaf or summer annual control is desired. Using nonselective herbicides like paraquat or Liberty will also offer control, but may not be quite as effective when cooler temperatures are present in the spring. MANAGING ARMYWORMS AND OTHER INSECTS FOLLOWING GRASS COVER CROPS Cover crops may harbor insects, diseases, and nematodes that could be harmful to the following cash crop. Armyworms and other insects could present additional management considerations after grass cover crops like annual ryegrass and cereal grains, even crimson clover, due in large part to residues left on the soil surface. Early cover crop termination and effective residue management at planting time are ways to reduce the risk of pest damage. Insecticide applications may be required if planting into a standing cover crop or within weeks of that cover crop being terminated. On the other hand, these same systems with surface residues create a more diverse plant/soil ecosystem versus conventional tillage systems and often attract beneficial insects too. Many approaches exist to manage cover crops and how they interact with potential insects harmful to cash crops. Plan early and manage accordingly. 5 MANAGING NITROGEN AFTER GRASS COVER CROPS How much N is available after a grass cover crop and when might it be available is a common question...with no easy answer. The rate and extent of Nitrogen release from the decomposing grass cover crop depends on many factors, including the stage of the plant when it is terminated, the Carbon to Nitrogen (C:N) ratio, and weather. Plants in the vegetative stage have higher N concentrations than those in the reproductive stage and will decompose faster. The C:N ratio determines the general timing of N release from these residues. High C:N ratio cover crop residues (greater than 5:), will first immobilize (use and deplete) N from the soil or recent fertilizer N additions. Only after some period of time will the N start to be mineralized, or released back to the soil. When managing grass cover crops (ryegrass, cereals), it is best to terminate the cover crop while it is still in the vegetative stage if growing a cash crop such as corn. If the cover crop gets into the reproductive phase before termination, there will be more N immobilization (or used) after termination and an additional application of starter N fertilizer will be needed. Not all N scavenged by the cover crop will be available the next season, so overall fertilizer N rate should not be reduced by the amount of N kept from leaching (some of the scavenged N goes towards building soil organic matter too). Grass cover crops while in the vegetative stage, have C:N ratios around 0: to 5: and release N rapidly after termination. Roughly about 50% of the N in the aboveground biomass will be available over a time window of around to months, depending on the weather. BRASSICAS 6 HOW MANY DAYS OF COLD WEATHER DOES IT TAKE TO STOP RADISH AND TURNIP GROWTH? 5 days of high teens / low 0 s temperatures will typically kill radish. Depending on region, turnips are usually able to withstand cooler temperatures a little longer and actually become more desirable to cattle after receiving light frosts. Expect turnips to terminate with several days in the low teens

17 THE DIRT ON COVER CROPS 7 WHY DO RADISHES SMELL? Whether the radish stand is winterkilled or controlled with herbicides or tillage, the decomposing plants give off an odor (actually a gas methyl mercaptan) and it s completely harmless. Mercaptan is the odorant added to natural gas to give it its distinct smell. This odor is typically shortlived (depending on temperature, the smell often exists for a few days up to a week). 8 HOLES OR SOCKETS LEFT FROM BRASSICAS/ROOT CROPS Because radishes die and decompose during the winter, there is ample time for the sockets they leave behind to catch water and sediment. However, if radishes are thinly planted and/or have limited competition for space, larger tubers can form which may take longer to fill in. Once radishes are killed by cold temperatures, a layer of decomposing residue remains on the soil throughout most of the winter and into the spring. This provides a mechanism of erosion control, but even more so, runoff is reduced and captured because of the infiltration made possible by the open holes. If additional erosion control efforts are needed, adding a cereal grass with the radish will further reduce surface and wind erosion in the spring. LEGUMES ARE INOCULANTS NEEDED ON LEGUME COVER CROPS? All legumes form a symbiotic relationship with rhizobia bacteria, a relationship that is beneficial to both the plant and the bacteria. Early in the growing season, a legume plant senses a need for Nitrogen, and exchanges signals with the rhizobia leading to the formation of nodules. These nodules allow rhizobia to fix Nitrogen by transforming atmospheric Nitrogen, unavailable to the plant, into ammonia (or NH) which the plant can readily utilize. This whole process breaks down however, when the proper rhizobia are not present in the soil. The plant will send its signal, but there are no rhizobia there to receive it. Thus, Nitrogen fixation process cannot take place, and the plant soon shows signs of Nitrogen deficiency, which affects early season vigor and growth, resulting in stunted, stressed plants. This demonstrates why it is important to inoculate legumes with the proper rhizobia whenever possible. Additionally, each legume species is specific to a certain strain of rhizobia, so selecting the proper strain is critical to ensure effective nodulation. Most legume seed does not come preinoculated for one key reason: rhizobia are fragile bacteria that are very susceptible to desiccation. If seed was preinoculated in advance of planting, most of the rhizobia would have perished by planting time. Because of this, it is always best to inoculate cover crop legumes at planting time with a fresh quality inoculant of the proper strain for that legume. The exception to this is alfalfa, clover, and soybeans, which utilizes rhizobia that is hardier and better able to withstand desiccation for longer periods. Cover Crop Inoculant Required Recommended Product Time to Inoculate? Crimson Clover R Type NDure Alfalfa/Clover 50# x 60 ea At Planting Balansa Clover B Type NDure Alfalfa/Clover 50# x 60 ea At Planting Berseem Clover R Type NDure Alfalfa/Clover 50# x 60 ea At Planting Red Clover B Type NDure Alfalfa/Clover 50# x 60 ea At Planting or PreInoculated Austrian Winter C Type Cell Tech NS Peat 500# x ea At Planting Peas/Field Peas Cowpeas EL Type NDure for Peanut 00# x 5 ea At Planting Hairy Vetch C Type NDure for Pea 00# x 5 ea At Planting Sunn Hemp EL Type NDure for Peanut 00# x 5 ea At Planting COATINGS DO THEY HELP? 0SEED Although commonly used on small seeded legumes, coatings can help spreading consistency with any small seeded crop and increase establishment time as they help imbibe water. Some seed coatings can also include nutrients, fungicides and inoculant that a small seeded legume can benefit from. Current research across the country indicates coatings are more valuable and show greater benefit to both small seeded legumes and grasses. HOW MUCH NITROGEN CAN BE FIXED BY DIFFERENT LEGUMES? Hairy Vetch can accumulate significant biomass in the spring and thus produce a large amount of Nitrogen (up to 0000# N at flowering). Winter peas can produce as much as tons of DM/acre and fix up to 50# N/acre. Research shows Crimson and Balansa Clovers yielded as much as 000# N/acre. Remember as with any legume, the amount of Nitrogen fixed will be maximized only after that legume is left to persist long enough to flower. GENERAL WHERE CAN INFORMATION ON HERBICIDE ROTATIONAL RESTRICTIONS BE FOUND? The majority of herbicide labels do not list the species that are used for cover crops or fall forages (like radish, turnips or cereal rye). These species often fall under the OTHER CROPS section on the herbicide label which means they can fall into rotational windows of up to 8 months, or the maximum rotational period. Keep in mind these restrictions, though lengthy, are meant to protect the succeeding crop, as well as livestock consuming the next crop. The grower should always know the herbicide label is a legal document meant to protect the grower from himself and protect the herbicide company if a cover crop fails to germinate or is injured by herbicide residues still present in the soil. It s a good agronomic practice to know the recent herbicide history before making cover cropping decisions, but understand that the published rotational periods of these herbicides can be conservatively long. Some universities have started research to more accurately pinpoint the potential residual effects towards cover crops of the common pesticides used today. These can be found by scanning the QR code to the right. WHAT COVER CROPS WORK THE BEST FOR INTERCROPPING INTO CASH CROPS IN EARLY SUMMER? Seeding crops into VV corn is gaining in popularity especially in northern climates where the fall seeding window is shortened. Numerous studies have been conducted across the upper Midwest to gauge which crops perform best given the seeding time and prolonged low light environments. Crimson clover has performed well as it both tolerates shade and does not interfere with the corn s nutrient needs during its vegetative growth period. Other cover crops that show favorable results with early intercropping into standing corn have been daikon radish and annual ryegrass (extra N needed for ryegrass growth and to reduce threat of negatively impacting corn yields). Ryegrass and crimson clover interseeded into corn

18 THE DIRT ON COVER CROPS COVER CROPS AND FALLAPPLIED NH Cover crops with vigorous growth and a good root system will take up N left in the soil in the fall, and more N next spring if the cover crop overwinters. Once sequestered by the cover crop, that Nitrogen is less likely to be leached or lost through erosion and/ or tile lines. The breakdown and release of cover crop Nitrogen to the next crop is a biological process that depends largely on the weather. Fall cover crops can help take up fallapplied N, thus keeping it safe from loss and upholding it until the corn crop is up and growing next spring. However, fall uptake of N will be limited if the cover crop is planted and establishes after the harvest of the previous crop. Since most fall N is applied only after soil temperatures reach 50 degrees; this typically offers only a few weeks of uptake. Applying NH into growing cover crops can cause damage to roots, and when soil temperatures are already cold and getting colder, it s not likely that those damaged roots will be able to take up much of the Nitrogen up before soil temperatures cool to a point where root growth is slowed. Uptake of fallapplied N increases as soils warm in the spring, but cover crops like ryegrass or cereal rye need to be killed at or prior to milder spring temps. So while cover crops can have beneficial effects on fall applied N retention, it should not be expected that they will greatly increase the amount of that N available for the subsequent cash crop. But research work across the Midwest has proven they can work together and show zero negative impacts of applying fall NH into a growing cover crop stand. 5 DOES SEED SIZE MATTER? Seed size contributes greatly on many decisions, including seeding depth and planting method. Planting seed about times the depth of the width of the seed is one common rule of thumb for seeding depth. Seed size dictates whether different planting applications work well, especially if the seed is left on the soil surface. Most seed drills have separate seed boxes for larger and small seed respectively, ensuring all seed flows from the drill and seedtosoil contact is maximized. 6 WHEN IS THE IDEAL TIME TO AERIAL SEED COVER CROPS INTO STANDING CORN AND SOYBEANS? First, one must consider the ideal planting window for the cover crop you are planting. For example, radishes need at least 6 weeks of growth prior to first frost. That planting period needs to be taken into account so it coincides with the maturity stage of the crop in the field. Assuming seeding intervals match, the ideal time for aerial application into standing corn is around the formation of black layer, or when at least 50% of the sunlight can reach the ground between the rows. The best time for application into standing soybeans is around 0% leaf drop, but that depends on row width (the wider the row, the earlier the planting window moves as light penetration is the most important component of aerial seeding). Delaying applications into soybeans increases the risk of poor moisture retention needed for maximizing germination. Aerial seeding into soybeans 7 WILL THE ROOTS OF COVER CROPS DAMAGE TILE DRAINAGE SYSTEMS? Not typically. Using cover crops can favorably impact the nitrate concentration and load traveling through our tile drainage systems. It can be argued that reducing nitrate and other nutrient leaching by utilizing cover crops makes even more sense where subsurface tile drainage is in place. Yet, the roots of some of the most common cover crop species, like radish and annual ryegrass, can be so aggressive that they approach the same depth (if not deeper) in the soil profile where tiles lines are placed (especially in situations of shallow or uneven depth of tile placement). Generally speaking, cover crops are planted later in the summer when drier soil conditions exist and the risk of their roots searching for water in drain tile is extremely rare. Reports of cover crop damage to the systems has been minimal to date. 8 FERTILIZING COVER CROPS If manure is not available, then commercial fertilizer often benefits a newly seeded cover crop. Single species stands or mixes that include legumes aid in Nitrogen production, which in turn helps make nutrients available for the following crop. Some species like brassicas will establish more quickly and produce more forage tonnage when additional Nitrogen is applied, however additional N can increase the likelihood of potential nitrate concerns in that forage. Still if sequestering all available (N) is the goal, then it might not be as crucial. All indicators seem to point that adding manure or additional (N) will provide an advantage when planting a cover crop, even after a legume crop (soybeans). However, adding Nitrogen is not essential. Knowing the GOAL will dictate if adding fertilizer makes sense. IS ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT NEEDED FOR PLANTERS OR DRILLS TO EFFECTIVELY PLANT CASH CROPS INTO STANDING COVERS OR COVER CROP RESIDUE IN THE SPRING? Adequate seedtosoil contact and good seed placement is crucial to proper cash crop establishment, but it s a challenge where residues remain on the soil surface. Equipment that removes crop residue from the immediate seeding area can help reduce stand losses by increasing soil temperature in the seed zone and decreasing the amount of residue that comes in contact with the seed. Equipment manufacturers have developed several tools to help manage these challenges that cover crops potentially pose to the soil surface in spring. Row cleaners are designed to clear away residue from the opening disks of the planter units. Removing this residue reduces the chance of hairpinning residue into the seed furrow. Row cleaners should be adjusted to move only residue and not soil (soil movement results in soil drying out and potentially introducing weed competition). Spoked closing wheels improve establishment in poorly drained soils, where traditional smooth rubber closing wheels can result in soil crusting. They also crumble the seed trench, allowing for proper seed to soil contact and leaving the soil loose for plant emergence. Cover crops can play an increasingly important role with managing pests. The right cover crop system can not only minimize the reliance on pesticides but also create positive changes with one s overall farming practices. We have compiled a list of cover crops and other common Midwestern species and how they interact with some of the common diseases and insects facing farmers today. For this list scan the QR code to the right. 0WHICH COVER CROPS SERVE AS HOSTS TO INSECTS OR DISEASE? For more Frequently Asked Questions and Key TakeaWays (on Seeding Methods, Crop Insurance Impacts, Seed Desicants, Fallow Syndrome, Slugs and much, much more) use the QR Code on the right to visit the Soil First Website

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