Tips To Manage Planting And Avoid Soil Compaction
MORGAN SCHMIDT
LUBBOCK, TEXAS
As farmers get the itch to begin planting, the debate about when to plant also begins. Planting into cold or wet soils, common in early spring, can lead to yield reductions caused by poor seedling emergence and reduced plant populations. Population loss can be associated with soil compaction from heavy planters, tillage passes, disk openers or even heavy rains. If farmers have to plant in less than ideal field conditions, there are some management opportunities that can help reduce these issues.
One major yield robber caused by wet soils is sidewall compaction. As planter disk openers slice through wet soil the sides of the furrows harden as they dry, ultimately inhibiting root growth and emergence. Channel Seedsman check fields during the seedling stage of the Field Check Up Series to evaluate emergence, root development and plant population, which can be affected by soil compaction.
The repercussions from sidewall compaction can affect the crop throughout the season and in subsequent years. To avoid packing down the seedbed during planting, reduce the down-pressure on the planter. Farmers can also consider different closing wheels or a spike wheel – the best source of information about planter options would be the manufacturer or local equipment dealer.
Limiting traffic on the seedbed is another opportunity to reduce soil compaction. Planting with a global positioning system (GPS) helps farmers drive the same track repeatedly to minimize excess compaction on the seedbed. Try to keep the direction of spring tillage and the planting direction as similar as possible. Even a five-degree variance in field position can spread compaction across a field.
Finally, check planter performance. Dig around in the seed furrow following the planter and check back on planted fields to monitor planter performance across soil types and planting conditions. Stay aware as field conditions change and evaluate and update your planter settings as needed. It’s the small changes to improve seedbed conditions that can have a big impact on crop performance.
Visit Channel.com/agronomics for more information about planting and Channel.com/FindYourSeedsman to find a Channel Seedsman in your area. ∆
MORGAN SCHMIDT: Channel Agronomist