Hoosier farmers planted an estimated 1.5 million acres of overwinter living covers in the late fall of 2021, matching the record 1.5 million acres planted in 2020, according to the Indiana State Department of Agriculture.

Overwintering living covers (i.e. – cover crops and small grains, like wheat) are known for their environmental benefits.

Cover crops and small grains help increase organic matter in the soil and improve overall soil health.