Winter Cover Cropping in High Tunnels
Lori Koenick, Extension Support Specialist
Cornell Vegetable Program

Cornell Cooperative Extension is researching cover crops for high tunnel growers to better manage fertility and improve soil health. Our work has shown that winter cover cropping in high tunnels has the potential to add organic matter, improve soil structure, support microbial activity, and help with nutrient management by scavenging leftover nitrogen and/or fixing nitrogen. This publication shares best practices for winter cover cropping in high tunnels including species selection, planting rates and dates, termination, and cultural management considerations.
Interested in learning more?
Contact project team members Judson Reid or Lori Koenick of the CCE Cornell Vegetable Program.
This work is funded by a USDA NRCS Conservation Innovation Grant "Best Management Strategies for High Organic Soils in Urban and Rural Vegetable Production."
Management Practices for High Organic Matter Soils: Winter Cover Cropping in High Tunnels (pdf; 687KB)

Upcoming Events
IPM Field Day for Urban Growers
September 10, 2026
Buffalo, NY
Join us for a hands-on field day exploring integrated pest management and season extension tools for urban growing spaces and the opportunity to build community with local growers!
This event will focus on best practices for using row covers and rat mitigation. Check out our CCE demonstration trial using insect exclusion netting to manage swede midge, an invasive fly that causes damage to brassica crops. Explore how to identify rat activity, reduce attractants, and strengthen site management. Hear from local growers on how they manage pests with a focus on organic management and how they extend the season on their farms and gardens.