Cover crop mulch for no-till maize in Northern Italy

This study evaluates field peas as a cover crop mulch in a no-till maize system in Northern Italy. The roller-crimper effectively terminated the cover crop, producing 15 t/ha of wet biomass. However, rapid decomposition due to low C/N ratio and active soil led to early weed emergence before maize canopy closure. No fertilisation or irrigation was applied, resulting in a maize yield of ~5 t/ha. The practice shows potential for soil health and weed control but requires precise cover crop sowing and sufficient biomass. On low-organic-matter soils, nitrogen fertilisation may be needed. Optimisation is essential for longer-lasting mulch effectiveness in similar agroecosystems.