Current relay intercropping trials
Our team is exploring multiple aspects of relay intercropping. Our overall goal is understanding how this system compares to established practices, which management practices "make or break" this system, and how we can most efficiently implement this in Kansas environments. Our cool season crop of choice is wheat, and we are exploring both soybeans and grain sorghum (milo) as warm season crop options. Click on each project below to learn more.
What is relay intercropping?
Relay intercropping is an intensified version of double-cropping where the second crop (ex: soybean) is planted before the first crop (ex: wheat) is harvested. Because this system is semi-sequential, there is a small overlap in season where two crops are growing at the same time. This gives us a longer growing period for the warm season crop while maintaining the winter cover of the cool season crop - we have living plants in the field for a full year.
Why not just double crop?
In Kansas, double-crop planting date matters a lot. Date is a main yield-limiting factor for double-crop soybeans. Every day's delay means a lost percentage of soybean yields. Late summer in Kansas is unpredictable and dry, which means double-crop soybeans can struggle with seed set and seed filling. How early can we get those soybeans in?
Can relay intercropping help with this?
In addition, relay intercropping changes the prioritization of the crops in our system. Instead of wheat getting a "normal season" and soybeans getting the leftovers, this puts more weight on the soybeans, which can be more profitable. How can we reduce risk and stretch the acres we have to be more profitable?