Production of Dual-Use Perennial Grain Kernza® in a humid continental environment

Kernza performance was evaluated over three years in Quebec to assess how intercropping with legumes and altered precipitation influence grain and forage yields of this novel dual-purpose crop. Grain yields were low and declined sharply regardless of intercropping, while forage yields and quality were generally higher in intercrops and stable across moisture treatments. Overall, Kernza–legume systems improved forage production but did not prevent grain yield decline, and elevated precipitation reduced grain performance more than moderate water stress.