By Blake Jackson
A 34-year study by the University of Missouri's Graves-Chapple Center compared four tillage systems for corn and soybeans. The research revealed no-till as the most profitable and environmentally friendly method.
The study in northwest Missouri examined fall and spring disk, spring disk only, no-till, and fall chisel with spring disk tillage. In 2023, with below-average rainfall and fluctuating temperatures, no-till corn yielded the highest at 218.8 bushels per acre, surpassing the lowest-yielding fall chisel and spring disk system (206.7 bushels per acre).
"No-till allows for better water infiltration, aiding plants during hot, dry summers," explained Jim Crawford, the Center's Director. This advantage aligns with historical trends, where no-till generally outperforms under similar weather conditions.
Over 34 years, spring disk had the highest average corn yield (188.2 bushels per acre), closely followed by no-till (187.6 bushels per acre).
Similar results emerged in the 23-year soybean study. No-till yielded the most overtime (59.8 bushels per acre per year), followed by spring disk (58.3 bushels per acre per year). In 2023, no-till soybeans again led at 63 bushels per acre, compared to 55.9 bushels per acre for fall chisel and spring disk.
Beyond yield, no-till offered significant cost savings. "There are no tillage expenses," said Crawford, highlighting that fertilizer, herbicide, seed, planting, and harvesting costs remained consistent across all tillage methods. The key advantage lies in reduced labor and equipment needs, making no-till the most profitable option in the long run.
Environmental benefits are another perk. "No-till minimizes soil erosion from wind and water runoff," concluded Crawford.
Photo Credit: university-of-missouri
Categories: Missouri, Education