Soil nutrient distribution as influenced by crop rotation and fertilization
Based on the agronomic and economic implications of including alfalfa in rotation with annual crops, what is the optimum and annual/perennial crop rotation for producers to utilize?
IPNI-1990-CAN-MB5
24 May 2001
Objectives
- This is a multidisciplinary research project that will address the following questions:
1) Is it economical to include short-term alfalfa stands in rotation with annual crops?
2) How much improvement in a) soil quality and N fertility; b) weed and disease suppression, and c) extraction of deep N and water can be expected from a short-term alfalfa stand? Will these improvements lead to reduced input costs in grain crop production?
3) Will a short-term alfalfa stand increase the risk of drought in subsequent annual crops?
4) Based on the agronomic and economic implications of including alfalfa in rotation with annual crops, what is the optimum and annual/perennial crop rotation for producers to utilize?