Occulation Vs. Tillage: How Does Cover Crop Termination Method Influence Dynamic Soil Properties?.

The use of cover crops during fallow periods has numerous benefits to agronomic systems. Soil protection, added nutrients via nitrogen (N) fixation and green manure additions, and pest management are just a few of the many benefits. Several studies have suggested that Sunn Hemp (Crotalaria juncea), Sorghum Sudan grass (Sorghum × drummondi), and Cow pea (Virna unguiculata) are among the most reliable cover crops for South Florida’s various agricultural systems. One challenge related to cover crop production is the method of termination. Conventional systems can readily use herbicides or other chemical agents to terminate cover crops before planting. Organic systems, on the other hand, rely on alternative methods. The purpose of this study is to investigate two termination methods in organic garden system: tillage and heat treatment (known as occulation). Four organic garden beds on the main campus of Florida International University in Miami, Florida were sectioned in a randomized block design, and Sunn Hemp, Sorghum Sudan grass, and Cow pea were planted in designated areas. A control fallow treatment was also incorporated. Tillage and occulation termination treatments were applied at random. Soil properties before, during, and post termination were analyzed for total nitrogen, carbon, phosphorus, bulk density, pH, and aggregate stability. Results of the study will address how occulation and tillage influence dynamic soil properties of organic garden soils under three cover crops in South Florida.