Rooted in Research: Evaluating Nitrate Leaching and Cover Crops in Potato Fields
In 2024, Farmers of the Roche-A-Cri conducted a research trial to evaluate the feasibility of interseeding cover crops—specifically rye and yellow mustard—into a commercial potato field. The goal was to assess their impact on nitrate leaching, soil health, and crop yield.
While the cover crops grew moderately well, the trial revealed challenges in integrating them into a potato system. Biomass sampling showed some success, but questions remain about how to manage post-harvest residue and whether it could be used for biochar. Resin lysimeters were buried to measure nitrate leaching, and results will be compared with potato yield and grade to determine the practice’s viability.
Treatments included:
Grower standard (control)
Rye or mustard interseeded post-hilling, with residue left
Rye or mustard interseeded post-hilling, with cover and vines removed before harvest
No cover, vines removed before harvest
While yield was not significantly affected, this trial is a step toward understanding how cover crops might fit into commercial potato systems. Future analysis will help determine if this practice can support both profitability and environmental stewardship.
