Low input and organic farmers are utilizing cover crop mulches in corn (Zea mays L.) production. Corn planting is typically delayed to improve the efficacy of mechanical termination with roller‐crimpers. During the late spring, as cover crops are allowed to grow to maximize biomass production, soil moisture reserves can become depleted, thereby directly impacting early season growth of the subsequent cash crop. A 4 site‐year study was conducted in North Carolina (Goldsboro, Kinston, and Salisbury) to evaluate the effects of timing of corn planting after roller‐crimping a cover crop mulch, on soil moisture, crop stand, weed pressure and corn yield.