Back to basics: Cover crops in Ontario

Back to basics: Cover crops in Ontario

From Inputs - by Top Crop Manager by Top Crop Manager

August 13, 2025 · 26 min · Episode 108

About this episode

This episode discusses the basics of cover crops in Ontario and their benefits in crop rotation.

The terms ‘cover crop’ and ‘service crop’ are interchangeable. Regardless of the term you use, these crops do more than just cover the soil after the main crops come off the field.  In this episode of Inputs, we’re going back to the basics – what are cover crops and what’s their purpose in a crop rotation? Kim Schneider, assistant professor at the University of Guelph, discusses the typical cover crops grown in Ontario, the agroecological benefits they provide, her current research projects – including a project with the Living Labs Initiative – and considerations before planting a cover crop (hint: understand your “why”). Never miss an episode of Inputs by subscribing to the podcast on  Apple Podcasts ,  Spotify , or wherever you listen to podcasts. Support for this episode provided by Proven Seed .

People in this episode

Guest: Kim Schneider

Topics covered

  • cover crops
  • agroecological benefits
  • crop rotation
  • Ontario agriculture

Keywords

  • service crop
  • University of Guelph
  • Living Labs Initiative

Sponsors

Proven Seed

Mentioned in this episode

Places: Ontario

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