Effects of paratilling on soil bulk density and infiltration
Date
2012-03-13
Authors
Ewen, B.
Schoenau, J.
Grevers, M.
Weiterman, G.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
ORCID
Type
Presentation
Degree Level
Abstract
Paratilling is a form of non-inversion deep tillage sought after by producers for its
effectiveness at loosening soil structure without compromising the soil conservation
practices that are already employed on the farm. An experiment was set up to evaluate the
tillage effects of paratilling. Looking at changes to the soil physical properties, bulk
density and infiltration, and crop yield. Initially, paraplowing reduced bulk density and
soil strength but with over time these effects were eroded. At the Vertisolic site the
effects were lost before the end of the first growing season, which may be a result of
natural processes and the unusually wet spring. Infiltration increased as a result of
paratilling. Soil loosening did not increase yield suggesting that soil structure is not
limiting plant growth at these sites. Paratilling is only feasible if a yield response is
observed.
Description
Keywords
subsoiling, deep tillage, irrigation
Citation
Degree
Department
Program
Advisor
Committee
Citation
Part Of
Soils and Crops Workshop