By Scout Nelson
N Field Observations returns for the 2025 growing season with a new episode focused on cereal rye as a cover crop. This popular grass is widely used in Nebraska corn and soybean fields to manage weed pressure while improving soil health.
Cereal rye is the most planted grass cover crop in the region, especially when sown in the fall. It is highly effective in suppressing winter annual weeds such as henbit, curly dock, field pennycress, and marestail. These weeds are typically difficult to manage once they become established, so early prevention is key.
When cereal rye is terminated after planting cash crops, it continues to help by reducing summer annual weeds, including Palmer amaranth, which is known to compete aggressively with crops for sunlight, water, and nutrients. This dual benefit makes cereal rye a valuable tool for weed management in sustainable farming systems.
This week’s episode features insights from Nebraska Weed Management Specialist Amit Jhala, who shares guidance on when and how to plant cereal rye, as well as best practices for termination timing to maximize its effectiveness.
“Cereal rye can be a powerful strategy in integrated weed management,” said Jhala. “Its ability to reduce weed pressure both before and after planting gives producers greater flexibility in managing their fields.”
N Field Observations is a resourceful series designed to support producers by sharing timely, research-based crop management tips. As weeds become increasingly resistant to herbicides, cover crops like cereal rye offer a natural and effective alternative to maintain clean fields.
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Weather