At the 2026 Milan No-Till Field Day, Dr. Facundo Lussich presented on “How Much Nitrogen Legume Cover Crops Contribute to Our Cropping Systems?” The presentation explored how legume cover crops use biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) to capture atmospheric nitrogen and contribute it to cropping systems, helping replenish nitrogen removed through crop production.
Facundo highlighted the connection between BNF, soil health, and soil nitrogen supply, emphasizing that greater legume biomass and successful nodulation can increase nitrogen contributions. He also discussed practical strategies for maximizing these benefits, including early cover crop establishment, later termination to increase biomass, and management practices that promote effective nodulation.
The presentation also featured findings from long-term research in West Tennessee, demonstrating how no-till management, fertilization history, and legume cover crops can influence soil fertility and nitrogen cycling.
The key takeaway was that effective management of legume cover crops can help producers build soil fertility, strengthen the soil’s capacity to supply nitrogen, and reduce reliance on external nitrogen inputs.