The Effect of Various Tillage Operations on Nutrient Availability

Tillage selection is just one of the issues that farmers must address when making crop production decisions. Among the factors that will influence the choice of tillage for a given field is the condition of the residue and soil in the field; the residue management practices needed to meet conservation plan specifications; the tools, time, and money that are available; the need to incorporate amendments such as lime, fertilizer, and manure; and personal experience as to what works for their rotation, soil type, and production system. The soil will have a varied condition depending on the tillage management and this may influence the response of the crop to applied nutrients.