Optimizing cover crop management for biomass production and potential of weed suppression

International audience; Cover crops have been identified as an efficient tool in non-chemical weed management strategies. Cover crops suppress weeds mainly by competing with them for resources. High production of biomass limits the access of weeds to light and thus reduces their growth. However, cover crop biomass depends on seeding rate, date and termination timing. This study was conducted in seven location (five states) in the Northeastern United States and replicated 3 years. Hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth), an annual legume, which is one of the most commonly utilized species due to its cold hardiness, was planted at two dates in autumn and at rates of 6 to 50 kg ha-1. The cover crop w…