Before you put your garden to bed, consider giving it a winter blanket—aka, a cover crop. Sowed in the fall, these cold-hardy plants work hard to improve soil throughout winter by decreasing ...

To maintain soil that produces successful crops, it helps to give it a rest now and then.That's what cover crops are all about. They prevent erosion, retain moisture, suppress weeds, reduce compaction ...

Government incentives, spurred by climate change fears, will likely nudge you toward reduced tillage programs and cover crops in the near future. On-farm tests conducted by Farm Journal field ...

Cover crops play an important role in protecting the soil and water when cash crops like corn or soybean are not actively growing. The National Conservation Service promoted the use of cover crops ...

From mild winters to heavier equipment, farmers face several uncontrollable factors, adding layers to the soil compaction problem. “Our winters have been milder, and snowfall has been lighter in ...

Cover crops are important in areas cultivated year after year. They reduce soil erosion and improve its overall health. As spring heats the soil, cover crops suppress weeds, and as they grow, they ...

With 2025-2026 winter predictions suggesting the Midwest is in for a wet season, it’s important to anticipate possible growing-season challenges and manage around them. Here’s what you need to know ...

When we talk about soil health, we’re really talking about how well the soil functions over time. The USDA Natural Resources ...

Much of the Midwest is experiencing drought conditions, and the situation has been building for months. Even though moisture has been hard to come by, there are still ways to maintain soil health.

Missouri farmers are seeing more frequent flooding events, with impacts on planting windows, soil health and crop yields.