Reduced tillage systems: evaluation of the influence of tillage and fertilizer management on soil quality, crop productivity and economic sustainability

Results from the first two years of a four year field study conducted on two soil types to evaluate the effect of nitrogen source, timing and placement on canola and durum, under conventional and reduced tillage systems indicated that yield tended be higher under conventional tillage than zero tillage, and was influenced by source, timing and placement of fertilizer N.

IPNI-1993-CAN-MB6

24 May 2001

Project Description

    Efficient fertilizer management is necessary to optimize the economics of production and to avoid excess nutrient carry-over in the soil, with the resultant potential for environmental damage. Results from the first two years of a four year field study conducted on two soil types to evaluate the effect of nitrogen source, timing and placement on canola and durum, under conventional and reduced tillage systems indicated that yield tended be higher under conventional tillage than zero tillage, and was influenced by source, timing and placement of fertilizer N. Initial effects on stand density and weed populations were also determined. Information on nitrogen use efficiency, crop quality and nutrient composition, soil quality and nitrate carry-over with depth will also be assessed over the four years of the study.