Across the country, farmers are turning to cover crops as a powerful tool for building healthier soils and more resilient operations. According to the newly released 2025 National Cover Crop Survey, the top reasons for adoption include:
- Reducing erosion (24.2% of advisors cited this as the most common reason farmers started using cover crops)
- Improving soil health (19.4%)
- Receiving an incentive payment (22.2%)
- Producing forage for livestock (11.4%)
- Improving weed management, soil structure, or water infiltration (each ranging from 2.5% to 4.8%)
Advisors noted that many farmers are motivated by what they’ve seen on their own farms—or those of their peers. From better water infiltration and higher yields to improved spring trafficability and reduced input costs, cover crops are delivering real, visible value.
“It’s a marathon, not a sprint. It takes time to see the benefits of cover crops, and if farmers don’t see that in the first couple of years, they may drop the practice.” — Survey respondent
So Why the Hesitation?
Despite the promise, adoption still faces hurdles, especially among growers newer to the practice. The survey revealed that the most common reasons for hesitation or abandonment include:
- Lack of measurable economic return (73.8%)
- Time and labor requirements (73.7%)
- Concerns about yield reduction in the following crop (50.4%)
- Moisture-related issues—either too much use or wet fields in spring (39.5% and 36.5%)
- Fear of cover crops becoming weeds or increased production risk (33.4% and 31.7%)
Many farmers want to try cover crops, but they’re looking for trusted guidance, practical strategies, and proven results—and that’s where we step in.
How GO Seed Helps Advisors and Farmers Succeed
- Proven Genetics with Clear Goals
We breed cover crop species for specific agronomic outcomes. Whether it’s erosion control, nitrogen fixation, compaction relief, forage quality, or weed suppression, our varieties like FIXatioN Balansa Clover, Survivor Winter Pea, and Driller Radish are designed for performance in real-world conditions. - Research That Builds Confidence
Nearly half of advisors say they’re only moderately confident in making detailed cover crop recommendations. GO Seed’s extensive research, university trials, and on-farm data equip advisors with science-backed insights they can trust and share with growers. - Custom Mix Design
In the 2016 survey, 22% of users planted a custom mix from their advisor or seed supplier. We help our partners design cover crop blends tailored to regional needs, management windows, and specific farmer goals—from erosion control to livestock integration. - Free Educational Resources
GO Seed provides practical tools to support advisor outreach and grower understanding. Our free Cover Crop Basics booklet, now in its third edition, breaks down key principles, species traits, and implementation tips. It’s an accessible, science-backed guide that advisors can share at field days, events, or during one-on-one conversations. - Support Across Systems
Cover crops rarely operate in a vacuum. Our breeding program spans cover crops, forages, and turf, giving us a holistic understanding of how these systems interact. Whether it’s maximizing grazing potential, enhancing biodiversity, or easing crop rotation transitions, we offer seed solutions designed to integrate seamlessly into diverse operations.
As cover crops gain traction beyond the early adopters, trusted advisors are more important than ever in helping farmers navigate the path to success. With the right support, the right species, and the right strategy, a trial run can become a long-term transformation.
GO Seed is committed to helping you make that happen. From our research-backed seed genetics to practical, advisor-ready tools like the free Cover Crop Basics booklet, we’re here to ensure you—and your growers—can move forward with confidence.
If you’re looking to strengthen your recommendations, support your clients more effectively, or bring clarity to the complexities of cover cropping, now is the time. Download our Cover Crop Basics booklet, explore our proven varieties, or connect with our team to start building a tailored solution that fits your region and your goals.
Let’s work together to plant smarter, grow stronger, and lead the next chapter of regenerative agriculture.
<<Click here to download the 2025 National Cover Crop Survey Report>>
