Cover crops play a critical role in building healthy, resilient soils in vineyards and agricultural systems. Sarah Light, Agronomy Farm Advisor with UC Cooperative Extension, shares how cover crops protect soil from wind and heavy rain, improve water infiltration, and increase on-farm biodiversity.

She introduces a newly released cover crop selector tool developed for Western growing regions, with guidance on species selection, termination practices, and grower goals such as reducing compaction, fixing nitrogen, and supporting pollinators. This practical resource helps growers choose the best cover crops for their location, crops, and management objectives.

Resources:

• 151: The Role of the Soil Microbiome in Soil Health
• 159: Under-Vine Vegetation to Control Vine Vigor
• 298: How Cover Crops Shape Grapevine Root Systems
• Cooperative Extension, Sutter-Yuba Counties
• Cover Crop Decision Tool
• Cover Cropping in California's Water Scarce Environment
• Cover Crop Resources
• Sarah Light's Research
• New tool helps farmers select cover crops
• UC Ag Experts Talk: Considerations for Cover Crops and Weed Management (video)

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