Being that triticale is a profitable option as a cover crop in Maryland, Dr. Vijay Tiwari is conducting research through the University of Maryland to identify and develop the best lines of triticale to grow in Maryland. To date, efforts to enhance triticale yields and cover crop utility for the northeastern United States have been limited. Lack of knowledge and poor understanding about triticale germplasm adapted for Maryland, and non-availability of publicly available triticale varieties present major barriers for increasing triticale acreage in this specific agro-climatic region. This research will deliver promising triticale cultivars with an option to the farmers to save the seeds to grow them as the cover crop in Maryland. Through this proposal, growers will be updated about the multipurpose role of triticale as a crop and will provide a platform for publicly available triticale seeds coming out of the Maryland Small Grain Program.
Once this project is completed, the best performing triticale lines will be identified to serve the needs of farmers in the northeastern region of the United States. Results of the research will enhance the profitability of cover crops, better nutrient scavenging from the soil, improved weed suppression, and high green manure/forage production. Additionally, it will provide another tool for farmers to aid efforts in minimizing nitrogen runoff to the Chesapeake Bay.
The Maryland Grain Producers funded $10,000 to this research project in 2021 and is excited to see the results being put to use by Maryland farmers!