Nutrient cycling in summer cover crops

Abstract

The utilization of plant species for ground cover in order to supply nutrients and protect the soil is important for the sustainability of agricultural systems. The objective of this study was to evaluate the production of fresh and dry matter, and the content and accumulation of nutrients in summer cover crops. The experimental design was of randomized blocks, with seven treatments (sudan grass, crotalaria, jack beans, pigeon pea, buckwheat, velvet bean and fallow) and six replications. The parameters evaluated in the cover crops were the fresh and dry matter yield and the content and accumulation of macronutrients and micronutrients in the above-ground biomass of the plants. The highest levels of nutrients were obtained in the legume crops. The crotalaria and jack beans had both higher dry matter yield and accumulation of macronutrients and micronutrients.