Effects of Animal Manures and Clover Intercrops on Barley and Corn Yields, and on Tissue and Soil Copper, Manganese and Zinc

Field plot experiments were conducted over two years on two different Nova Scotian soils. Barley and corn were grown successively on the same plots fertilized with different types and sources of animal manures with and without clover intercrops. Barley and corn yields and leaf tissue were analysed for Cu, Mn, and Zn; DPTA extractable soil Cu, Mn, and Zn were assessed concurrently to determine whether the amendments were good sources of metals. Red clover (single and double cut) and sweet clover intercrops were analysed for yield and nutrient content. The intercrops had no effect on barley or clover yields, nor did they compete for available nutrients. The three different manures did not contribute significantly to micronutrient levels in soils or crops. Inorganic fertilizers and some manures had the opposite effect on soil pH, which directly influenced plant available Mn. This study recommended that a field-size experiment evaluate the agronomic and economic potential of animal manure fertilized intercrop or cover crop systems.