By Scout Nelson
Farmers in Nebraska are turning to roller crimpers to manage weeds, reduce herbicide use, and improve soil health without disturbing the soil. This method is becoming popular in organic and regenerative systems.
During a May 22 workshop at the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center (ENREEC), producers saw live demonstrations of roller crimping on cereal rye, triticale, and wheat cover crops. Experts also discussed the best practices for increasing termination success and weed suppression.
Roller crimpers work by flattening and crushing cover crops to form a mulch layer. This helps keep weeds from growing while keeping the soil covered. For success, it is important to use cover crops that produce high biomass — at least 8,000 lb per acre or 4–5 feet in height. Cereal rye is the most popular due to its strong growth, but triticale is also used.
The cover crop should be seeded by mid-to-late September at a rate of at least 100 lb per acre to ensure strong fall growth. In spring, the best time to crimp is when the cover crop is flowering and anthers are visible. Crimping before flowering can lead to regrowth, while crimping too late may result in seed formation.
Sharp crimper blades and heavy drums—sometimes filled with water—help improve effectiveness. Crimping at an angle or making multiple passes may improve weed suppression by covering more soil.
Research from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and trials in Nebraska support these practices. With proper timing, crop choice, and equipment, roller crimping can help farmers lower costs and manage fields more sustainably.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoomtravels
Categories: Nebraska, Business, Equipment & Machinery