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Submitted to: Weed Control Manual
Publication Type: Trade Journal Publication Acceptance Date: 7/20/1995 Publication Date: N/A Citation: N/A Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Conservation tillage has had more impact on weed control in row crop production than any other recent change in management practices. In conventional tillage systems, moldboard plowing and secondary tillage just before planting help crop seedlings get an equal start with weed seedlings. In conservation tillage systems (especially no-tillage), herbicides are used to substitute for some or all of this tillage. Because of this reliance on herbicides, there are some environmental risks involved in using conservation tillage. However, in many situations, particularly where erosion is a major problem, conservation tillage helps protect surface waters from run-off soil and pesticides. Conservation tillage may not necessarily demand greater use of herbicides, but it does rely on correct weed identification and timely treatments. When switching tillage systems, producers need to recognize changes in weed problems and field conditions and adjust weed control strategies accordingly. If these changes are not considered, the first experience with conservation tillage can be a weed control disaster. |
