Soil Responses to One-Season Winter Cover Crops: Revegetation as a soil modifier for pastoral use
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
Major
Agriculture Science
Minor
Chemistry
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. I.P. Handayani
Presentation Format
Poster Presentation
Abstract/Description
In rural regions of Kentucky where wooded lots are common, there is a growing interest in utilization for profit maximization by developing pastoral systems. The frequently poor soils in wooded areas due to erosion and limited ground cover vegetation often create complications in managing pasture areas. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the effect of growing winter cover crops (Perennial Ryegrass, Daikon Radish and Hairy Vetch) on soils to prepare for pasture systems in the spring. There were two parts in this experiment. Part one was to study the effects of winter cover crop revegetation using soil quality indicators such as soil organic matter, soil compaction, and aggregate stability. The second part of the project involved the seeding of pasture forages appropriate for small livestock in the spring after the winter cover had been killed and to then evaluate each plot for percent coverage by forage crops and to re-evaluate the soil using the soil quality indicators. The findings from part one of the experiment indicate, based on soil organic matter content, aggregate stability, and plant stand coverage, that Perennial Ryegrass is the optimal choice with Daikon Radish a close second choice. Results from this research are useful for homeowners, foresters, agronomists and gardeners who would like to improve their poor soil condition with minimal cost and labor.
Spring Scholars Week 2019 Event
Sigma Xi Poster Competition (Juried)
Soil Responses to One-Season Winter Cover Crops: Revegetation as a soil modifier for pastoral use
In rural regions of Kentucky where wooded lots are common, there is a growing interest in utilization for profit maximization by developing pastoral systems. The frequently poor soils in wooded areas due to erosion and limited ground cover vegetation often create complications in managing pasture areas. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the effect of growing winter cover crops (Perennial Ryegrass, Daikon Radish and Hairy Vetch) on soils to prepare for pasture systems in the spring. There were two parts in this experiment. Part one was to study the effects of winter cover crop revegetation using soil quality indicators such as soil organic matter, soil compaction, and aggregate stability. The second part of the project involved the seeding of pasture forages appropriate for small livestock in the spring after the winter cover had been killed and to then evaluate each plot for percent coverage by forage crops and to re-evaluate the soil using the soil quality indicators. The findings from part one of the experiment indicate, based on soil organic matter content, aggregate stability, and plant stand coverage, that Perennial Ryegrass is the optimal choice with Daikon Radish a close second choice. Results from this research are useful for homeowners, foresters, agronomists and gardeners who would like to improve their poor soil condition with minimal cost and labor.