Association of Legumes with Seed Crops to Reduce Nitrogen Inputs in Seed Production

The paper reports two trials: one comparing tall fescue establishment under spring pea versus under barley or winter wheat across multiple sites and years, and another testing carrot seed production with various legume species sown between rows over a three-year period. Results show equal or higher fescue seed yields after pea, a neutral economic balance due to lower pea grain output, and improved environmental performance from reduced nitrogen applications. In the carrot trials, no significant nitrogen transfer was observed, though winter pea sown on three rows showed promise. The study identifies management adaptations and farmer training needs for adopting these innovative systems.