Rainfall Boosts North Dakota Cover Crop Growth Potential

By Scout Nelson

North Dakota farmers have an excellent chance to plant fall cover crops this year thanks to plentiful rainfall and healthy soil moisture. For the first time since 2022, the U.S. Drought Monitor reports that the state is not in drought.

Many regions have received close to 15 inches of rain since May, creating ideal conditions for fall seeding.

Cover crops provide many benefits, including continuous living roots, soil armor, improved nutrient cycling, carbon storage, erosion control, snow retention, and natural weed suppression.

According to Victor Gomes, NDSU Extension cropping systems specialist at the Dickinson Research Extension Center, these conditions give producers a strong window to establish cover crops before winter.

Experts recommend drilling seed for the best soil contact, especially in the drier west, while broadcasting can work in wetter eastern areas. Choosing the right crop is key. Goals might include nitrogen fixation, nutrient scavenging, winter soil cover, weed control, or late season forage.

Growers are advised to consider crop rotation carefully because some species can host pests or diseases. For example, cereal rye should not be planted ahead of wheat or barley.

Timing also matters. Most species germinate when soil temperatures are above 38 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Cereal rye grows best when planted from late August through early October. Late summer planting provides the greatest biomass and soil benefits. Early fall planting still protects soil and captures nutrients but limits species choices.

Winter hardy species such as cereal rye, winter camelina, hairy vetch, triticale, and winter wheat survive harsh winters. Frost tolerant but non hardy options like oats, turnips, and radishes add fall growth and decompose quickly after winterkill.

Financial support is available through programs such as Farmers for Soil Health and USDA NRCS cost share opportunities. Producers can contact their local service center to learn more.

NDSU Extension specialists encourage timely action, noting that seeding soon will help North Dakota fields gain lasting soil health, improved nutrient cycling, and stronger erosion control heading into 2026.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-wiyadaa