Cover crop trial - November comparison
In this quick blog, we’re taking a look at how the cover crop trial plots compare from the 6th November, to the 24th November.
Plot 1 – Forage Rye
No major differences in growth
Forage Rye 6/11/2020
Forage Rye 24/11/2020
Plot 2 – Berseem Clover
Significant upright growth, covering more ground area.
Berseem Clover 6/11/2020
Berseem Clover 24/11/2020
Plot 3 – Crimson Clover
Growth can be seen between the two visits, but as the clover exhibits very low prostrate growth, this has been harder to judge.
Crimson Clover 6/11/2020
Crimson Clover 24/11/2020
Plot 4 – Radish type 1
No real differences in top growth, roots have developed quite deep. There was a definite line where the crop had responded well to the Polysulphate fertiliser, with more leafy matter above ground.
Discovery Radish 6/11/2020
Discovery Radish 24/11/2020
Plot 5 – Fodder Radish
Some top growth, there are visual differences between the two radishes above and below ground. These bulbs are slightly larger if a little shallower.
Fodder Radish 6/11/2020
Fodder Radish 24/11/2020
Plot 6 – Spring Vetch
Some growth across the plot, but not significant
Spring Vetch 6/11/2020
Spring Vetch 24/11/2020
Plot 7 – Winter Vetch
The plants seemed to have bulked out a little more, offering a lot more ground cover. There was also a visual colour difference between the Spring and winter vetch, with the winter being a more vibrant green.
Winter Vetch 6/11/2020
Winter Vetch 24/11/2020
Plot 8 – Buckwheat
Has been knocked back quite a lot by the recent cold spells – but no hard frosts as yet. The crop looks thinner and some are senescing.
Buckwheat 6/11/2020
Buckwheat 24/11/2020
Plot 9 – N Fixer
Growth has shown more ground coverage across the plot, with the vetch being the more dominant species.
Plot 10 - Sprinter
There has been good growth across this plot, with the oats progressing nicely. They have also responded well to the Poly fertiliser. The vetch is still present at good levels and sown further growth.
Sprinter Mix 6/11/2020
Sprinter Mix 24/11/2020
Plot 11 – EcoCover
The mustard continues to flourish in this mix, slightly swamping the rye element. In the parts with the Poly fertiliser, there is very little rye to be seen.
EcoCover 6/11/2020
EcoCover 24/11/2020
Plot 15 – Red reviver
The ryegrass and clover are a lot better established now and are providing some ground cover. Unfortunately, there is a lot of contamination from other mixes.
