Pvafarm - 8/30/2015 17:27 I agree totally with Ty on can't believe fall N ever "shines". If we want to reduce nitrates in tile and groundwater fall N apps have to stop. Period. Its a bad practice here further north with major losses every year. I know guys will argue but they haven't tried alternatives. The alternatives are split apps in spring with planter and side dress. You CAN put on enough with the planter to avoid any slump before side dress and it really won't slow you down. It is a mindset change more than anything. As for covers helping? W. Rye is your best choice in a c-s rotation and our only choice here. Wheat is not a good choice as corn struggles behind it - think what it looks like when you plant into old trails behind the combine. As far as N uptake of rye? It will soak up extra N (residual) but to expect it to hold half your applied N is not realistic. Rye taken to grain uses 40-60 units of N total. How much do you think 12" rye takes up? Not much. Toss fall N in and you defeat the purpose of the cover.