It is not likely that greater return will be realized from an individual alternate crop per se. But the benefits of alternate crops grown in rotation may increase overall returns, and a diversified cropping system can add income stability. Introduction of a broadleaf crop in an otherwise grass crop system allows control of grassy weeds and disruption of disease cycles. Spring crops in an otherwise winter crop system, or visa versa, allows control of alternate season weeds. Diversification of crops in rotation should reduce acute and chronic disease and insect problems.
All crops have different root system structures.
Crop rotation allows for plant root exploration and modification of different parts of the soil profile. These changes may reduce the need for production inputs in differing parts of a cropping system and may thereby increase overall profitability. In a series of experiments over five years in the 22-25 inch rainfall area of northern Idaho, previous crops were evaluated for crop sequence effects on winter wheat productivity. These experiments were part of a three year rotation with spring barley the rotation crop before the experimental crops were planted. Therefore, these results show the differences in a 'good' rotation sequence and if these rotational crops were inserted into a continuous cereal system, the response of the following winter wheat should be even greater.