The Leading Edge - Issue 24

Strip Tillage is the solution for planting delays
due to cold, wet soil.

Is cold, wet soil delaying your planting? Decreasing your yield potential? Affecting your bottom line?
When you leave residue on your fields, you improve soil moisture, water permeation, aeration, and soil tilth, but with a full cover of plant residue, the ground never has a chance to dry out and warm. When cold, wet soil disrupts the planting season; strip tillage may be the solution for your operation. This method offers many benefits including improved soil and planting conditions, consistent soil temp in the strip, fertilizer banding, and undisturbed residue between rows.	Clean, Tilled Strips
Strip tillage is performed in late fall or early spring depending upon location with the purpose of creating a healthy seedbed. The process involves tilling the narrow strips in which seeds will be planted and leaving the rest of the soil untilled and covered with crop residue. The tilled soil forms a ridge, which facilitates drainage and invites warming, creating the perfect soil conditions for planting. Strip tillage is an excellent alternative to conventional techniques, but starting in the fall is imperative, and choosing the right attachments makes all the difference. A combine spreader for adequate residue distribution, a chopper to handle tough residue are integral in preparing the ideal seedbed. Residue that has been sized and properly distributed reduces the chance of plugging.
Residue management and coulter tillage are important steps in effective strip tillage. Residue management creates a clean seedbed for planting, and proper tillage methods ensure an ideal seedbed for next year. Working in conjunction they loosen and warm the soil, creating an environment that promotes seed growth and health.	High Residue Maverick™ with Shark Tooth® Wheels
Appropriate knife selection is also an integral part of the process. It is important to consider soil disturbance, depth, type of fertilizer, and ground speed when making this decision. Finally, there are a wide variety of sealing and closing options available to suit the needs of every operation.
12 row Strip Till Toolbar	Strip tillage also presents excellent opportunities for precision fertilizer placement, which is critical throughout all stages of growth. Placing nutrients to the side and slightly below the seed allows them to come in contact with emerging roots, creating a growth explosion.
As more roots develop, they also benefit, and the precision-placed nutrients continue to nurture the plant throughout its growth life. Strip tillage is increasing yields, promoting healthier plants, and decreasing fuel and labor costs for growers all over the nation. Strip-till places your investment in the row where nutrients provide optimal returns. If you are experiencing delays in the planting season due to cold, wet soil, strip tillage may be the answer for you.

Visit www.yetterco.com to review past issues of The Leading Edge and Yetter products that maximize your yield potential.

Notice – The information contained in this guide is offered in good faith by Yetter Mfg. Co to further the understanding of no-till farming. However, the use of the information provided is beyond the control of Yetter Mfg. Co and in no case shall Yetter Mfg Co or any seller of its products be responsible for any damages which may occur from the use of this information. All such risks shall be assumed by the user.