What Type of Tillage is Right for You?
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For many producers, the minimum amount of tillage that is needed is considered to be the optimum amount of tillage.
Image: Simon Howden / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Many farmers prefer to switch entirely to no-till systems, while still others opt for the minimum amount possible. Another good option, according to industry experts, is vertical tillage, in which the majority of the crop residue is left on the surface – helping farmers to maintain their yields or even increase them, while also retaining soil moisture and reducing the possibility of erosion. Furthermore, unlike horizontal tillage, vertical tillage does not build a soil density layer that can restrict growth.
“Root growth is what you’re after,” says one expert. “You don’t want the root to run into anything that slows down growth, because that could have a negative impact on yield.”
If a root system gets a good, strong start before the crop experiences any stress, like drought, the root is more likely to be able to reach soil moisture and withstand the potential damage of the stress.
However, vertical tillage isn’t a perfect solution for every farmer. Depending on where you are located, there are different methods of tillage that may be suitable. The type of tillage that is most productive depends on factors like the soil compaction and moisture content or dryness of the soil. Vertical tillage is best suited to areas where fields may have a compacted layer and very dry soil.
Farmers whose fields have pretty well-drained soil or particularly poorly-drained soil may prefer to use another method. Ground that undergoes a natural freeze/dry cycle or regular wet/dry processes may tend to be more forgiving.
In order to use the vertical tillage system, be sure to level the fields and get the seedbeds ready for planting. Two pieces of equipment that work well for this sort of task are the Great Plains Turbo-Till Series II 1800 and the Salford RTS. For other types of tillage systems, including no-till, speak to your equipment manufacturer to find out what equipment will work best for you. Even with a no-till system, there are other factors you will want to take into consideration such as fertilizers and other applications.
