Cover Crop Trials in Normandy: Species Performance and Soil Health Outcomes

Cover crop trials in Normandy, France, 2021–2022 evaluated species and mixtures for weed suppression and soil health. Italian ryegrass, vetch, clover, and red clover were sown on 2 October 2021; vetch-dominated mixtures showed high biomass (4.3 t/ha) and low weed infestation (0.8%). Summer species like sorghum, sunflower, and chia failed to establish. Mustard and daikon radish adapted well. Sclerotinia and white rust were observed. Biomass, C/N ratios, and weed percentages were recorded. Recommendations include soil testing, legume use for nitrogen fixation, and Contans treatment for disease control. Funded by the French Ministry of Agriculture.