However, such herbicide treatments may not be effective because the weeds will likely be too large for control. It is better to strive for good weed control in the winter wheat, properly timed herbicide applications when wheat and the intercrop are growing together, and use of supplemental cultivation of the row crop if necessary. To make cultivation possible, harvest wheat with a combine equipped with a chopper-spreader. Cultivate the row crop when the straw is dry. Summary Relay intercropping is a high risk cropping system in Nebraska, with risk increasing from south to north as the growing season shortens and rainfall diminishes.
Supplemental irrigation is necessary for consistent success.
Supplemental water may be needed before small grain harvest in deficient rainfall years to assure survival of the underseeded crop. After small grain harvest, irrigation is usually necessary for economic row crop yields. Relay intercropping is more complicated than sequential doublecropping, with limited potential superiority. Relay intercropping should first be tested on a limited acreage. Kenneth R. Bolen, Director of Cooperative Extension, University of Nebraska, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.