No-till farming uses a tillage system to conserve the land from year to year, leaving the soil nutritious and ready for farming.
At this year’s No-till Oklahoma Conference in Oklahoma City experienced farmer David Eyster gave farmers plenty of advice to find success with no-till farming.
The first step he said is to remove all weeds from the land you wish you use. He recommends terminating a crop “early enough to allow time for a rain before planting. Give it at least 30 days.”
Eyster advices all farmers have their own sprayers to use the herbicide timely, but also be in contact with neighbors in case there a problem occurs. He stressed the importance of nutrients in the soil as well because “proper fertility means a healthy crop.”
To have the most success Eyster said newcomers must know how to manage residue. Residue conserves water so it keeps weeds down and soils cooler. Depending on the season, crops respond differently to the amount of residue in the soil. “Summer crops do better with residue,” he said. The crops that work best with it are cotton, corn however, does not.
It is hard to choose the best crop because there are so many options. “But whatever crop, make a marketing plan first,” he said. “Also, pick crops that you can alternate Roundup Ready and non-Roundup Ready varieties to prevent control problems with volunteers.”
Another key to no-till farming is using rows that configure with harvest equipment. This way the soil is not disturbed more than necessary. Overall he suggests using crops like cotton or sunflowers.
Farmers who have adopted no-till farming have found their soil full of nutrients. It also conserves the soil at its natural state.
If you are interested in purchasing land for farming contact Farm Plus today. Farm loans are available with low rates. Call 866-929-5585 or visit online for more information regarding farm loans.