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| GROWER'S CORNER: FOR GROWERS, BY GROWERS |
Effects of Winter Cover Crops and Crop Rotations on Peanut Yield, Insect and Disease Incidence in Strip-Tilled Peanut
Effects of Winter Cover Crops
James R. Weeks |
| | | Auburn University
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Alabama study results from 2002 identified 2 burrower bug species, 4 wireworm species, white grubs, and lesser cornstalk borer present in late season soil sieve samples. Burrower bug population was greatest in the fallow strip-tilled peanuts compared to those with wheat, rye, or oat winter cover crops. Subplots trated with Lorsban 15G at pegging had significantly reduced burrower bug damage and significantly better grades.
In 2003, adequate to excessive rainfall prevented burrower bug or lesser cornstalk borer populations from developing. Late season soil samples revealed low level wireworm and southern corn rootworms which did not impact yield or grade. In 2003 studies, root-knot nematode (RKN) damage was significant in the test area. Nematode soil samples taken prior to harvest indicated significantly higher RKN larvae in the strip-tilled peanuts planted into rye cover crop than the conventionally planted winter fallow peanuts. Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus incidence was generally lower in strip-tilled peanuts throughout the study period. Southern stem rot incidence was not different among the various cover crops or tillage systems.
Statistically, there were no significant differences in any of the years. Overall, yields of strip-tilled peanuts were comparable to conventional and little difference was noted in yields of peanuts in the different cover crops. Results in Georgia indicate an increase in burrower bug damage in strip-tilled peanut compared to conventional tillage. In several studies wireworms and southern cotton rootworms were also greater in strip-tilled peanut compared to conventionally tilled peanuts.
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