By Andi Anderson
Corn residue often causes planting issues due to its slow breakdown compared to soybeans. This is because of corn's higher carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) ratio, which slows microbial decomposition.
Vertical tillage has become a practical tool for managing this residue and supporting seedbed preparation.
Unlike conventional tillage, vertical tillage uses coulters or discs that cut and distribute residue without burying it. This allows better soil contact, quicker warming, and improved planter performance.
The tool also enhances water infiltration and reduces nutrient runoff, especially when applying manure or fertilizers.
Tool selection depends on the tillage goal. For residue sizing, light coulters and a zero-degree gang angle work best. For soil loosening and greater residue mixing, aggressive tools with up to an 18-degree gang angle are used. However, too many passes can reduce conservation benefits.
On-farm trials in Michigan showed that spring tillage reduced surface residue by 30%, while fall tillage helped size residue without lowering its volume. Two passes offered no major advantages over one and sometimes harmed seedbed quality due to excessive loosening.
While yield gains weren’t consistent, many farmers noted better emergence and planter performance with vertical tillage. A single pass to incorporate cereal rye as a cover crop in fall also improved emergence in dry conditions.
A Canadian study found that rippled discs mixed residue best, though all disc types cut similarly. A Pennsylvania study showed no yield difference between vertical tillage and no-till, but vertical tillage reduced slug damage.
Vertical tillage offers flexible residue management and helps create uniform, dry, and warm seedbeds. While it may not always boost yields, it supports better early crop growth and planting efficiency.
Photo Credit: getty-images-elhenyo
Categories: Michigan, Crops, Soybeans, Sustainable Agriculture