Nebraska Research Highlights Top Cover Crops

By Scout Nelson

As fall planting approaches, many are considering which winter small grain cover crops best fit their operation. In eastern Nebraska, options such as cereal rye, winter wheat, and triticale (a rye-wheat hybrid) stand out for their adaptability and benefits.

Among these, cereal rye ranks highest for winter hardiness and biomass production, making it the preferred choice across much of the Midwest. It produces more biomass than wheat or triticale, though its taller growth—reaching up to five feet by mid-May—can make management more challenging.

Winter wheat, with its shorter stature, offers easier handling, while triticale provides a good balance between the two.

Rotational planning also matters. Fields including wheat in rotation may not suit cereal rye or triticale due to disease risk. For those interested in grazing, wheat and triticale can extend the grazing season thanks to later maturity. When considering seed cost, cereal rye remains the most affordable at around $0.27/lb, compared to $0.33 for wheat and $0.34 for triticale.

Research at the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension, and Education Center compared these crops over three years. Results showed that rye consistently produced the highest biomass—up to 6,800 lb/ac of dry matter—with rapid spring growth averaging 1,000 lb/ac per week in late April. Wheat and triticale experienced more winterkill, reducing yield potential.

Forage tests revealed high quality across all cover crops, exceeding 75% total digestible nutrients (TDN) and 20% crude protein early in spring. However, rye’s quality declined faster as it matured, while wheat and triticale retained better nutrient levels later into the season.

In conclusion, cereal rye, especially the variety ‘Elbon’, remains the most reliable for winter survival and biomass gains. Meanwhile, wheat and triticale serve as valuable alternatives when grazing quality or easier spring management is the priority.

Photo Credit:gettyimages-eugenesergeev