Strip-tillage and four-year rotations may benefit soybean, wheat and alfalfa production.

What is it about?

Crop yields under conventional and alternative cropping systems were evaluated over eight-years. The experiment involved comparisons of tillage, rotation and fertility strategies. Crop yields, weed seed densities and system performance were evaluated over time. Overall system performance was best with conventional tillage and a two-year rotation due to higher corn grain yields. However, strip-tillage and diverse crop rotations had little impact on yields of soybean, wheat or alfalfa. Instability in corn grain prices, recognized soil health benefits of strip-tillage, and reduced economic risk with diverse cropping practices indicate potential for adoption of these practices.

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Why is it important?

Strip-tillage and four-year crop rotations can have positive impacts on soil health and carbon sequestration. However, in the Upper Midwest, farmers are reluctant to adopt these conservation practices. Yield data indicated that yields for soybean, wheat and alfalfa were not different when using conventional disk-till or strip-tillage. These data indicate that yield performance for these crops should not be a barrier for adopting conservation practices.