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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Auburn, Alabama » Soil Dynamics Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #421874
Research Project: Agronomic and Engineering Solutions for Conventional and Organic Conservation Agricultural Systems in the Southeastern U.S.

Location: Soil Dynamics Research

Title: Influence of cover crop residue management on volumetric soil moisture and cotton establishment

Author
item Kichler, Corey
item Watts, Dexter
item Torbert Iii, Henry
item Kornecki, Ted
item PRASAD, RISHI - Auburn University

Submitted to: American Society of Agronomy Branch Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/2/2025
Publication Date: 2/2/2025
Citation: Kichler, C.M., Watts, D.B., Torbert III, H.A., Kornecki, T.S., Prasad, R. 2025. Influence of cover crop residue management on volumetric soil moisture and cotton establishment [abstract]. Southern American Society of Agronomy; Irving, TX, February 2-4, 2025.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Effectively managing cover crops and residue is an important part in expanding the adoption of conservation agricultural practices. However, management techniques can have negative implications during planting operations in cotton (Gossypium herbaceum L.) production. Three cover crop residue management methods were investigated for a cereal rye (Secale cereale L.) cover crop and included mowing (Mow), rolling/crimping (Roll), and mowing with incorporation (MowIncorp) and their effects on soil moisture, cotton emergence, and plant population. Results show that rye biomass levels influenced emergence, volumetric moisture content (VMC), and cotton population. Rye biomass production was significantly greatest in 2022 at 6464 kg ha-1 followed by 2024 at 5982 kg ha-1, and 3723 kg ha-1 for 2023. Volumetric moisture content for 2022 was significantly higher for the Mow and Roll methods by 14.2-51.0% compared to MowIncorp for four out of the 5 intervals during the first 4 weeks after planting (WAP). Volumetric moisture content trends for 2023 and 2024 were less predictable, potentially due to periods of rainfall that occurred during the first four weeks after planting. Emergence rate index (ERI; % day-1) and final cotton populations were lower for 2022 and 2024 for Mow compared to the Roll and MowIncorp due to loose residue on the soil surface that was pushed into the furrow during planting, which hindered seed to soil contact. No significant differences for ERI were detected in 2023 due to lower rye biomass amounts that did not negatively affect planting operations. Higher cover crop biomass production did improve soil VMC under certain conditions, but hindered emergence and reduced the final cotton seedling population.