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Frequently Asked Questions
 
Below are a list of our most frequently asked questions, if you have a different question not listed, you can ask us a question by completing the form below.
 
Why will Reduced Cultivation succeed now, when it failed in the ‘70’s?
Surely the cheapest method of establishment is the one you already have? Any expenditure only benefits the machine manufacturers?
How do you control grass weeds such as barren (or sterile) brome and black-grass without a plough?
Will Reduced Cultivationing send my slug control bill sky high?
What is the long term impact on compaction and natural drainage?
Are there any soil types not suited to Reduced Cultivation methods? Should light and heavy soils be managed differently?
How effective is Reduced Cultivation equipment at incorporating bulk organic matter products such as sewage sludge cake and paper waste?
Can you increase yields from a Reduced Cultivation system?
What are the pros and cons of different Reduced Cultivationing drills? Which one is best for me?
How do I improve my plough tillage?
What´s the situation of No-tillage in UK?
How does one maintain soil sustainably?
what is bad about not tillng as much
how do crop rotations reduce weeds
why do you suggest cereals should be drilled at 1.6 inches?
what area of the uk is min till at present
does limex 70 have a beneficial effect to soil structure when applied even where the Ph is at a cceptable levels
Has any research been done on shallow ploughing ie 75-100mm?
Can power harrow drills, used in existing plough based systems also be used in good conditions for minimal tillage, for example after light discs or a subsoiler, or will they not work deep enough?
what is kuyper marl
natural drainage
Where can I find a document call a Soil Management Plan?
what is sub-soil water movement?
natural drainage
contribution to improve the sustainability in uk the use of direct drilling and reduced tillage
ideal ph for weeds
Why does eastern parts of england get soil erosion?
how do you control take-all by organic methods
cost of installaion of drainage
Is minimal tilling appropriate deserts?
why do earthworms go on the top of the soil ofter a rainfall?
why direct drill not cultivation
why is sub-soiling needed in soils with clay pans?
Infiltration rates
what is fissuring action on discs do
what is fissuring
How can I treat acid soil?
soil infiltration rates for UK
what does minimal tillage do?
soil management plan#
introductuion for reservior tillage
what effectdoes a high proportion of rock fragments have on soil consistency?
what are the typical levels of lead found in contaminated land?
How can animal life help soil structure and texture?
What effect does a high proportion of rock fragments have on soil chemistry
the advantages and disadvantages of minimum tillage
How do I get hold of a " Visual Soil Assessment " Book.
How does the cost of min-til compare to the cost of plough and combi drill
1. How effective is minimal tillage at protecting below-ground archaeology?
Are there any minimal tillage equipments on farms in Devon or Cornwall? I understand they are expensive.
is it true that numers of broad leaved weeds will decrease under a min till programme?
Simba Solo the way forward?
will farmers be paid to adopt min till under the single farm payment?
where can trials data be found regarding weed emergance under min till vs plough systems?
why will BLW decrease under min till?
CAN NITROGEN PLACEMENT BE JUSTIFIED IN OCTOBER IN AN NVZ WITH DIRECT DRILLING? e.g cross slot
Does minimum tillage increase arable diseases through presence of unburied trash?
control of onion couch
what is the stale seebed tehcnique
soil capping, what is it?
how can you improve soil conditions
what is min till
what are the advantages and disadvantages of direct drilling seed?
Measuring soil moisture, at different soil depths, relating to compaction caused by cultivation machinery, has anyone charts of this
what is sub soil
Will direct drilling work on heavy kuyper marl clay? I am concerned that the slots won`t close, seed to soil contact, slugs and water logging will take their toll, thanks
What are your thoughts on Biosolids
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT ADAPTIVE TILLAGE OPERATIONS?
Is autocasting considered different to non-inversion tillage?
do lime has any other effects than stabilize acidity of the soil?
if the soil has ph value about 8.5, can be used lime in this case?
how to calculate norms of lime to the soil?
what causes soil capping
what is reduced cultivation
Which is the best way to establish oilseed rape
what is beter way mintill or plow
how can infiltration rates be measured
crop residue - pros and cons
slug pellets earthworms
How much of the UK is currently direct drilled
cost of crop establishment
I have been offered some poultry manure, are there any problems in applying it prior to my min till, autumn sown cereal crops?
should we keep ploughing?
power harrows and soil structure
what are the advantges and disadvantges of sandy coarse soil texture
what is the effect of soil compaction on soil fauna
what is the ph of Cotswold Brash
how do yields compare with reduced tillage
what is the effect of minimum tillage on soil moisture in loamy sand
infiltration referring to no tillage
silty soil cultivation
define soil texture
what is a stale seedbed
Using disces to 4 inches i find the straw residue seems to effect the cereal establishment and development, 2 weeks behind in the spring, why is this and is there any data on the different crop straw causing different effects
soil management plan
reduced tillage in loamy sand
Would Direct Drilling Work better in spring? Direct Drilling was popular in Canada when I visited this Spring
Where do I get my soil analysised
visual soil assessment
What causes soil degration
why are parts of eastern england affected by soil erosion when it is windy
what are possible causes for soil capping
What are the advantages of ploughing?
what is cotswold brash
how does liming improve structure in clay soils
why does soil erode
cost per acre autocasting osr
What does GAEC and ELS stand for?
what is an action plan that can be used to repair damage from wind and water errosion?
why is top soil useful
reaserch on autocasting
will a pasture slitter be as effective as subsoiling sandy soils under grass to relieve compaction or are there better tools for loosening these light soils?
do i need nitrogen when i am drilling rape
What is the aeration like in silty soils
when to cultivate silty soil
cost of powerharrow drill a ha
WHAT IS DEEP-SHALLOW PLOUGH?
WHAT DOES DEEP TILLAGE TO 6-8" MEAN?
WHAT DOES REDUCED TILLAGE 4-6" (TINE/DISC) MEAN?
WHAT IS DIRECT DRILLING?
effect of over exploitation on soil profile
why is sub-soiling is needed in clay pans
factors that determine the planting methods to follow as well as the choice of planting material
how does soil structure influence crop growth
AUTOCASTING COSTS VERSUS DRILLING
Using named examples discribe how soil management in crop production can influence soil stability in the long term
effects of capping on plant growth
effects of poaching on plant growth
what causes soil degration?
Minimum tillage generally involves the incorporation of straw: what nutrient values does this provide to the next crop?
Apart from wind howelse do farmers lose their soil?
what is kuyper marl
We have recently installed a new pipeline through arable fields and segregated the topsoil and subsoil. What would be the best form of sub-soil preparation prior to replacing the topsoil?
what is a soil pan
what is the reservior tillage?
how to improve nutrient level in dry soil
what are simba solos performances
top soil quaility how important?
What are the disadvantages of minimum cultivations?
what are the advantages and disadvantages of direct drilling?
Cost of establishment/ ha on 1000ha arable, traditional tillage vs min tillage
what is direct drilling
what is the need for lime in horticultural cultivation and cropping
capping
What are the advantages and disadvantages of ploughing?
why is sub-soiling needed in soils with clay pans?
why should we add well decayed organic matter and basal fertilizer to the soil before transplanting seedlings or grafted plants of perennial crop species?
how well does min till work for organic crop establishment?
how soil consistency affect crops
what is an aggregate
why are parts of eastern england affected by soil erosion when it is very windy
cotswold brash
tilling properities of cotswold
expected yeilds on cotswold land
what is current practice of mole ploughing
maize yeilds on cotswold soils
alittude of the cotswold
what is the effect of initial soil clod diameter and liming on the stability of soil aggregate
best soil moisture content for cultivating land
what is the effect of tillage change on the stability of soil aggregate
disadvantage of power harrows
advantages of ploughing
how to control problem weeds such as Blackgrass, Sterile Brome and Annual meadow Grass in non inversion tillage
how does soil erode
what is the potash value of chopped wheat straw
what are the main Characteristics of cotswald brash
advantages of ploughing
What is the minimum depth of soil required for cow grass on a roof top? There is underground drainage.
 
Ask a Question
 
My Question is:
 
Why will Reduced Cultivation succeed now, when it failed in the ‘70’s?
 
We are not talking about direct drilling this time.

The system is flexible. We know the risks - grass weeds, herbicide resistance etc. You can still plough.

Cultivation technology has improved.


· Heavier discs, sometimes in partnership with tines, which do not lead to smearing and panning are available.
· Presses are better and more available to ensure that there is good consolidation.
· Cultivator drills are available which work well in a range of conditions.


Herbicide technology has improved.

· Grass weed herbicides for non-cereals crops.
· Range of residual and foliage applied herbicides in cereals.
· New herbicides in pipeline.
Surely the cheapest method of establishment is the one you already have? Any expenditure only benefits the machine manufacturers?
 
Yes it might be. If you only have capacity for one system, then what you have might be right.

But make sure you know the costs of the current system. You may be able to use it more effectively.

· Are all passes justified?
· Do you do recreational cultivation?
· An extra pass costs money - it is not free just because someone is available.
· Is the current system increasing costs elsewhere - need for sub-soiling, loss of crop and nutrients due to erosion.


Often investing in larger capacity and reducing numbers of machines can save labour costs, establishment costs and growing costs.

May be harder for smaller farms to justify extra expense. Consider sharing with neighbours, or contracting the operation in, or offering your services as a contractor to others.

Progressive adoption of the technique is both practical and a way of reducing costs of adopting it - consider cultivator/press first to replace power harrow but to provide seedbed for a variety of drills; then replace drill and finally plough (or consider retaining it for rotational ploughing).
How do you control grass weeds such as barren (or sterile) brome and black-grass without a plough?
 
The key is to create a programmed approach both prior to drilling and in the crop and to utilise both cultural and chemical control methods;
- create a good consolidated stale-seedbed soon after harvest
- wait for good weed germination prior to spraying off prior to drilling
- drill a good competive crop
- apply a pre-em and post-em. herbicide programme.
- rotate crops to allow room for stale seedbeds and also use of a variety of herbicides
- rotational use of the plough can be useful if there is a high weed seed return in one year.
Will Reduced Cultivationing send my slug control bill sky high?
 
Again this is a potential risk.

The key to minimising this is:

· A good straw chop.
· Good spread of chaff.
· Get a well structured seedbed by working from top down.
· Consolidate the stale seedbed.
· Remove green material pre-sowing with non-selective herbicide.
· Try and make sure drilling is at 4cm (1.6 inches).
· Consolidate the seedbed maximise crop emergence and eliminate slug 'motorways'
What is the long term impact on compaction and natural drainage?
 
Check for and correct existing problems before you start with reduced cultivation. Only sub-soil when needed and ensure depth is correct for problem.

The undisturbed soil will begin to develop its own natural structure with pores and cracks through cycles of wetting and drying.

Soil fauna will increase and their activity will increase the natural structure and porosity.

Incorporation of organic material will help to stabilise the structure and support the soil fauna.

Plough pans and smeared surfaces will begin to break up but rotational sub-soiling on less well structured soils or where required is vital.

Improved structure and porosity improves natural drainage.

Improved drainage reduces soil erosion, ponding and increases the loading strength of the soil.
Are there any soil types not suited to Reduced Cultivation methods? Should light and heavy soils be managed differently?
 
It should be possible on most soils, but the machinery and management and will be different.

Reduced tillage is ideally suited to the well structured (especially clays) soils.

·  Greater choice of suitable equipment may already be available. Benefits from a drill with more cultivation capability which in turn gives flexibility to use more cultivator options.
·  Autumn cropping dominates and autumn cultivation will be the norm, even before spring crops.


On less well structured soils (such as silts, sands) more care is required.

·  Correcting soil structure before you start is essential. Monitoring soil structure as you progress is also vital.
·  Lighter wider equipment (discs or tine cultivators) required, also lighter wider presses. Ideally consider a drill which does less cultivation.
·  Before autumn sown crops, autumn cultivation is successful, especially in dry autumns when moisture conservation is important.
·  Leave seedbed coarser.
·  Prior to spring sown crops, spring cultivation is normally best. In a dry spring this conserves moisture over deeper cultivation.

How effective is Reduced Cultivation equipment at incorporating bulk organic matter products such as sewage sludge cake and paper waste?
 
Growers are successfully incorporating large amounts of organic manure and sewage sludge.

You do not need to get rid of the organic matter, just to incorporate it and get good crop establishment.

Incorporating less than 8 t/ha of chopped dry wheat straw has not been a problem.
Can you increase yields from a Reduced Cultivation system?
 
Depends where you are starting from! If you are doing everything right now, possibly not. Advantage may only be to reduce costs. Also remember that if costs are reduced more than yield that overall it will increase profit margin. Aim to reduce costs of production whilst maintaining or increasing yield.

Yes there is potential to increase yields. Examples include:


· Dry years when moisture conservation increases establishment
· Increased crop area being established at the optimum time (see later re weeds as well).


If you let grass weeds dominate, then as we all know yields may suffer. This risk increases as years go on and from early drilling.

It is very important to balance potential yield increases from early drilling with yield losses from increased grass weeds from early drilling. Also note that in high take all risk situations (such as second, third or fourth wheats) that later drilling will reduce take all and improve yields.
What are the pros and cons of different Reduced Cultivationing drills? Which one is best for me?
 
Tine cultivator drill:

·  Good on cost and flexibility
·  Does not leave slots
·  Less wear
·  Potentially very accurate depth of drilling control
·  Can handle higher volumes of surface trash.

Disc cultivator drill:

·  Minimal soil disturbance and therefore opportunity for further weed germination
·  Most expensive
·  Does not cope as well in wet, can leave slits which favours slugs and can push straw into the slit which leads to poor soil seed contact and hence emergence.

Disc direct drill:

·  Traditional direct drill.
·  Cheaper that disc cultivator drill and as good with similar issues.
·  However, no soil movement or consolidation at all so can leave straw in slit giving very anaerobic conditions if wet which kills crops. Can also lead to greater compaction.

Normal coulter drill:

·  Unsuitable in presence of a lot of straw or clods.
·  Disc coulters better way into a reduced cultivation system.
How do I improve my plough tillage?
 
The key is to: 1. avoid cultivating under wet conditions where smearing and compaction will bring run-off, and 2. avoid over-cultivating the soil which leads to slumping, capping, runoff, and wet fields. Reducing the amount of tillage is possible by shallower ploughing if you have a narrower bodied plough, and/or moving away from repeated passes of a power harrow or tine or disc to 1-2 passes with a cultivator press. A coarser consolidated seedbed is useful and not only stabilises the soil but can facilitate a stale seedbed prior to planting. The use of a surface profiling tool like press rings or technique of reservoir tillage can also increase water infiltration and minimise run-off on finer soils prone to capping. Finally you may consider rotational use of the plough combined with some form of conservation tillage practice.
What´s the situation of No-tillage in UK?
 
No- tillage, more commonly known in the UK as direct drilling, has a place, but is more a niche than mainstream for most growers. It's best fit is on stable soils, with a good crop rotation and minimal grass weeds. However, growers with direct drills will often drill crops like Oilseed rape or first wheat where soil conditions are often suitable and crop residue minimal.
How does one maintain soil sustainably?
 
Treat your soil with respect: feed it correctly and use tender loving care. So replace organic matter and make cultivation decisions based on the philosophy of 'for this field, for this crop on this day'. Remember not to be afriad of changing the management if conditions change at lunchtime. Build organic matter and biological health of the soil, work with the soil by cultivating/ travelling when conditions are suitable. Abuse will lead to rapid deterioration of soil structure.'
what is bad about not tillng as much
 
Although reducing the amount of tillage can be beneficial in my case on stable soils, on less stable soils there is more risk of compaction or tightening of the soil. Sands and silts tend to tighten with rainfall and traffic, and shallow cultivations cannot loosen this always alone. So other measure like sub-soiling will be needed.
how do crop rotations reduce weeds
 
The use of crop rotations help in several ways; 1. Correctly chosen, they can provide more time for stale seedbeds. 2. Allow use of alternative herbicides. and 3. Change the selection pressure on weeds.
Unfortunately, the UK focus of autumn planted cereals with less rotation has been a major driver for the development of annual grass weeds.
why do you suggest cereals should be drilled at 1.6 inches?
 
The primary reason is to do with the management of slugs. Research by IACR at Long Ashton showed that a key aspect of management is accurate drilling of cereals at 4cm (1.5") so as to protect the seed. Combine this with control of green material prior to drilling and consolidation of the seedbed and slug damage is dramatically reduced.
what area of the uk is min till at present
 
There are no published figures on this, but estimates of 30-35% of the arable area under reduced tillage systems in 2002/3, more on the big farms.
does limex 70 have a beneficial effect to soil structure when applied even where the Ph is at a cceptable levels
 
Spreading chalk at rates of 50t/ha plus was traditional in many parts of Eastern England in the 19th century and there are some soils which, though naturally acid, still contain 1-2% of calcium carbonate. The objective was to make the soils more easy to cultivate. There is some evidence that excess calcium carbonate may reduce the cohesion between clay particles in moist clods and reduce the size of water-stable crumbs in a soil. Improvement could also be due to a slow stabilisation of structure as the calcium carbonate initially dissolves and is then reprecipitated as films around clay particles. Improvements in soil structure have also been reported following the application of high rates of gypsum. Limex supplies a finely divided source of calcium carbonate and is therefore effective in raising soil pH as it has a large reactive surface area. High rates of application of any form of calcium carbonate would be needed to have a long term effect. Applying high rates of a liming material increases the risk of trace element deficiencies, particularly manganese and boron, and may by raising soil pH also reduce the availability of other nutrients.
Has any research been done on shallow ploughing ie 75-100mm?
 
We are not aware of any research, and this could be an area for future funding. Most modern wide bodied ploughs cannot plough shallowly, However, new designs are becoming available.
Can power harrow drills, used in existing plough based systems also be used in good conditions for minimal tillage, for example after light discs or a subsoiler, or will they not work deep enough?
 
Be very careful with power-harrow drills and reduced tillage.
Those with Suffolk coulter tines will tend to block with straw and struggle to penetrate consolidated seedbeds and produce poor results on heavier soils. However, careful use with straw removed on loose lighter soils can work as long as the seedbed is consolidated after drilling.
However, the best answer, if you want to adapt the current drill is, if possible, to change to disc coulters.
The target however, should be use/ purchase of an appropriate cultivator drill or direct drill.
what is kuyper marl
 
A red clayey geological deposit found in a band from east Nottinghamshire down to SW England. The typical soil type is the Worcester series (see appropriate soil survey publications for more details)
natural drainage
 
Natural drainage in soils comes from development of a healthy soil. Channels are made in the soil by; earthworms, in particular those made by Lumbricus terrestris that burrow 1-2m deep, but also by plant roots that later decay. In soils with a high clay content drying induces deep cracking and fissuring that help break up compacted layers and aids water infiltration. Presence of trash in surface layers reduces capping and increased organic matter improves soil structure aiding drainage.
Where can I find a document call a Soil Management Plan?
 
DEFRA provide guidance on completing an ELS Soil Management Plan. Guidance for a GAEC soil management plan will come shortly.
It is upto each farmer to complete the basic soil management plan for 2006 and implementation by 2007. An ELS soil management plan is required if the field soil assessment indicates problems that need resolution.
what is sub-soil water movement?
 
Water can move downward in soils by fissure flow or via larger pores. The speed of flow depends on soil texture and structure being fast in sandy soils and extremely slow in some clayey soils. Some horizontal movement is also possible and again this is texture and structure related and mainly occurs when the water table is within the soil profile. On some silty soils, such as those in the fens, water may also move upwards through the subsoil by capillary flow.
natural drainage
 
The movement of water down through the soil profile. Water follows exisiting channels made by worms, left by dacayed roots or through natural fissures.
contribution to improve the sustainability in uk the use of direct drilling and reduced tillage
 
Correct implementation of conservation tillage systems like these can bring huge environmental benefits; stable healthy productive soils, reduced risk of compaction and erosion, less leaching, less run-off, more invertebrates, even more birds.
For these and many other reasons the adoption of conservation tillage is encouraged by subsidy/ grants in several other countries (USA, Spain, Italy, Germany.....)
ideal ph for weeds
 
Many weeds, favour a pH of around 7 where nutrient availability is maximal. However, certain weeds are more typical of a high pH found on limestone or Chalk (Onion couch, many annual broadleaves). More acid conditions restrict crop growth and with less competition grass weeds like blackgrass can thrive. Drier acid soils also favour Corn Marigold and Corn Spurrey.
Why does eastern parts of england get soil erosion?
 
Soil erosion occurs across the UK, and with intense rainfall is more common. Erosion can result from soil degradation caused by; overworking the soil, compaction, capping where conditions impeed water infiltration. The resulting run-off carries soil and nutrients and pesticides off the fields contaminating water courses, covering roads as well as leaving rivulets/gullies in fields.

Wind erosion can also occur. This is seen on light blowing sands in some years as wind scours out loose soil.
how do you control take-all by organic methods
 
Take-all management without the use of chemistry ie. in Organic agriculture is possilbe to some extent. Keep the soil profile/ seedbed consolidated to reduce oxygen levels and slow fungal development. Use a good rotation and avoid 2nd/ 3rd cereals after grass or OSR. Increase nitrogen levels by appropriate muck/FYM to promote good cereal root growth. Choose an earlier maturing vigorous variety.
cost of installaion of drainage
 
This depends very much on the scale and type of project concerned so one cannot generalise. More detail to come.
Is minimal tilling appropriate deserts?
 
Minimum tillage offers excellent opportunity to conserve moisture; minimal or no soil disturbance, consolidated, trash mulch. Tight soil profile aids capillary action up through soil. These benenfits are very useful where rainfall is limiting in continental climates, but cannot make up for NO rain in a desert.
why do earthworms go on the top of the soil ofter a rainfall?
 
To feed, often looking for organic material which is dragged back into their tunnels.

By contrast when it's dry they burrow deeper to stay in moist soil.
why direct drill not cultivation
 
Less cultivation encourages beneficial insects (beetle and spider predators) as well as allowing the build up a larger earthworm population and biomass. Shallower cultivation/ direct drilling keeps trash on the soil surface which helps to stabilise soils and also builds soil health and structure which can reduce the risk of soil erosion if done correctly. However, direct drilling has a narrower fit than minimum tillage or ploughing, and as with any tillage system should be used appropriately to ensure best practice in soil care and crop establishment.
why is sub-soiling needed in soils with clay pans?
 
Where a pan exists, drainage/ water infiltration, and crop rooting may be impeded. This can not only reduce crop yields, but also affect crop management and adversely affect the environment if run-off results. If problems with cropping/ drainage dig a soil pit and investigate the pan.
Sub-soiling, if needed and conducted under the right soil conditions, can break the pan and alleviate problems.
Infiltration rates
 
Infiltration rate of a soil is affected by its texture and structure and also by cultivation and seedbed quality, and presence of crop roots, trash and worm burrows.
When establishing a crop; maximise the infiltration rate by ensuring a firm open seedbed of medium quality. Avoid capping, smearing or compaction - so don't overwork unstable soils or work soils when wet.

Without crop cover leave the soil open with rough ploughing/ cultivation and do not prepare a fine seedbed.
what is fissuring action on discs do
 
As disc harrows are pulled through the soil the forces of the blade on the soil that is moved fissure the soil breaking it up or putting cracks in it so it breaks up later. This action is what help discs make a tilth in the soil.
what is fissuring
 
The natural cracking of the soil along lines of weakness. Happens under repeated wet and driying of soil through seasons. Enables structures of soil to be seen and aids drainage and aeration of the soil.
How can I treat acid soil?
 
Apply lime, amount required depends on pH and texture. Good table in Defra booklet 'Fertilisers for Arable and Horticultural Crops' RB209
soil infiltration rates for UK
 
There are no typical figures. However, to illustrate differecnes by soil type; infiltration rates (cm/hr) are 80 for coarse sands, 50 for loamy sand, 15 for sandy loam, 4 for silt loam, 3 for clay loam and 2 for clay. However there will be a wide range about these figures depending on land use and state of cultivation. (ref ADAS Advisory Paper 18 'Techniques for Measuring Soil Physical Parameters').
what does minimal tillage do?
 
When managed correctly minimum tillage (2-3" depth) allows a more natural soil structure to build up over time. Crop residues are incorporated by worms and other organisms and with less intense cultivation help to build soil organic matter and structure. Increased worm numbers and size helps improve soil and in particualr drainage. Surface crop residue intercepts rain drops and increases water infiltration. Soils stabilise and allow trafficking under a wider range of conditions easing crop protection. On the downside, there is potential for more annual grasses, but more planning; stale-seedbed, break-crops, herbicide programmes can manage this.
soil management plan#
 
These will be a requirement under Cross-compliance for SFP in 2006 for implementation in 2007. They are the farmers plan on how he/she will meet the cross compliance terms as regards soils with respect to his/her situation. The aim being to minimise soil erosion, maintain soil organic matter and soil structure. They will be based on some form of risk assessment and then an action plan to resolve/ prevent any problems with a review.
introductuion for reservior tillage
 
There is a good place for use of resevoir tillage behind power-harrows, or in place of rolling on lighter soils subject to wind or water erosion, or with soils left over winter without a crop. Resevoir tillage (Simba Aqueel) creates small indentations able to hold a litre of water that aids water infiltration, reduces cross slope water movement and also minimises wind blow.
what effectdoes a high proportion of rock fragments have on soil consistency?
 
A high proportion of rock fragments lightens a soil making it freer draining and easier working. For example a Cotswold Brash soil with granular limestone chunks may contain upto 60% clay, but behaves more like a clay loam. The consistency varies depending on the proportion of clay and rock in the mix together with organic matter content.

There are three aspects of soil consistency which can be measured. The shrinkage limit, plastic limit and liquid limit. All are measured on soil which has been dried and ground to less than 2mm in diameter therefore the presence of rock fragments greater than 2mm in diameter will have little effect. The main influences are clay and organic matter contents.

Any good soil physics textbook such as Baver, Gardner & Gadner or Kohuke (both called 'Soil Physics') will give details of the tests. Engineering textbooks can also be useful.
what are the typical levels of lead found in contaminated land?
 
There is no such thing as a typical level of lead in contaminated soils because the contamination could come from a range of sources, e.g. waste applied to land or mine spoil. The upper range for total lead in uncontaminated soil (Berrow and Burridge, MAFF RB 326, 1977) is 200ppm. In areas where lead mining occurred in the past levels into the thousands are possible (In the Nordrach series (now known as Malham) in the White Peak near mining disturbance levels of between 870 and 4200 were found (Soils In Derbyshire SK17, Soil Survey record No.4). Reference should also be made to the 'Sludge (use in agriculture regulations) 1989' which give guidance on the maximum levels allowed in soils where sewage sludge is to be applied - in the case of lead, where the soil pH is above 5.0, the figure is 300 mg/kg, there are certainly soils in some areas where this level is exceeded naturally because of underlying lead bearing parent materials.
How can animal life help soil structure and texture?
 
Soils contain a diverse range of micro and macro-organisms that contribute to improving soil health and structure. Soil fauna (microfauna; mesofauna; macrofauna) each contribute in different ways. Microfauna inhabit the soil solution and utilise organic compounds of low molecular weight. They contribute to the formation of a stable soil structure as filamentous fungi and actinomycetes entrap soil particles to form aggregates that are stabilised by polysaccharides, lipids and proteins from microbial degradation of plant residues and soil humus. Mesofauna inhabit the pore system and feed upon fungi, decomposed plant material and mineral particles. They principally contribute to nutrient recycling and create micro aggregates that provide soil structural stability
Macrofauna (e.g earthworms) live between soil micro-aggregates feeding upon the soil substrate, soil microflora and fauna, soil organic matter and surface flora and fauna. Physical structure is modified by the creation of burrows, which can penetrate the subsoil and aid drainage. Gastropods, isopods and myriapods consume and bury green organic matter and their faeces encourage microbial activity leading to the formation of soil aggregates and humus. Note: texture is a function of the content of particles of sand silt and clay, whilst their aggregation forms different soil structures.
What effect does a high proportion of rock fragments have on soil chemistry
 
It all depends on the type of rock. Chert will have no effect but rock containing mica will release potash for example.
the advantages and disadvantages of minimum tillage
 
Advantages when well practiced include:- reduced cost/ha, quicker establishment; moisture conservation, more consistent seedbed, better crop establishment; improved soil organic matter, improved soil structure, better water infiltration; higher populations and larger worms; reduced run-off, reduced erosion, reduced leaching, carbon sequestration; fewer losses to slugs, grass weeds, aphids x BYDV and take-all. Disadvantages include:- needs investment if you do not have appropriate equipment; needs a period of learning best practice; there will be teething problems; soils take time to adapt to straw and to consolidate without compaction; without best practice in implementation soil compaction, wet weather, trash management, slugs and grass weeds can cause problems. With bad practice there will be a higher need for slug pellets and herbicides.
How do I get hold of a " Visual Soil Assessment " Book.
 
Contact Vaderstad on 01476-581900
How does the cost of min-til compare to the cost of plough and combi drill
 
Why not download our cost calculator and put in your details.
1. How effective is minimal tillage at protecting below-ground archaeology?
 
It would all depend on what depth one cultivates. However, minimal tillage is normally carried out at 2-3" (5-7cm) considerably less than mould-board ploughing typically 6-10" (14-25cm) so damage to hidden archeological remains would be reduced. Similarly, by maintaining deeper soil structures intact adding trash, encouraging earthworms, soil structure will improve so long as there is no compaction.
Are there any minimal tillage equipments on farms in Devon or Cornwall? I understand they are expensive.
 
Yes, minimum tillage equiment is found in many places in the SW. Whilst there is an initial invetstment, choice and correct use of the appropriate equipment means considerable cost savings and improved soil management which can improve profitability when combined with necessary refinement of how the farm is run. Please note, however, minimum tillage is not for everyone or every soil, so check it is right for you.
is it true that numers of broad leaved weeds will decrease under a min till programme?
 
Comparative trials show that annual broadleaved weed numbers tend to be lower with minimum tillage and higher with plough tillage. Of course the conserse can be true with annual grass weeds unless good management is put in place. Perennial broadleaf weeds tend to be more of a problem with direct drilling.
Simba Solo the way forward?
 
The Simba Solo, as with the Vaderstad Top Down and Gregoire Besson discordon can be useful tools in the early years of adopting reduced tillage, and can suit the larger farm or contract operation. These machines offer greater flexbility under more difficult conditions and deeper tines remove disc smearing. However, investment and horse power requirements can be high.
will farmers be paid to adopt min till under the single farm payment?
 
No, sadly not, although in some other European countries farmers adopting conservation tillage do gain subsidy payments to help.
where can trials data be found regarding weed emergance under min till vs plough systems?
 
Most recent work in Sapio link project #2469 (LK0923) 'Improving crop profitability by using minimum cultivation and exploiting grass weed ecology' DEFRA (SA LINK), HGCA, Simba, Monsanto, Syngenta, JC Mann Trust, Velcourt. Lead by ADAS Boxworth.

Hutcheon JA, STRIDE CD and Wright KJ. Aspects of Applied Biology 51, 1998. Weed Seedbanks:Determination, Dynamics & Manipulation. Manipulation of weed seedbanks in reduced tillage systems for sustainable weed control.

Stride CD and Wright PJ BCBC conference Weeds 1997. ECOtillage: A sustainable management programme which reduced the costs of crop establihshment and weed control whilst providing environmental benefits.

why will BLW decrease under min till?
 
Annual broadleaves probably decline as the surface seedbank is not renewed with good weed control and deeper seeds stay below cultivation depth. However, perennial broadleaves (thistles, docks, cow parsley, willow herb) can increase under minimum tillage and particularly under direct drilling so beware and use glyphosate judiciously.
CAN NITROGEN PLACEMENT BE JUSTIFIED IN OCTOBER IN AN NVZ WITH DIRECT DRILLING? e.g cross slot
 
Old versions of RB209 gave a seedbed nitrogen recommendation for direct drilled crops but the latest version does not mention the subject of direct drilling. It is possible that after crops which have received low levels of N fertiliser or very high yielding crops which have removed a lot of nitrogen that a small dressing might be justified. After oil seed rape, peas or milling wheat the chance of a unique response to autumn N is reduced.
Does minimum tillage increase arable diseases through presence of unburied trash?
 
Influence of Cultivation Practices on Arable Crop Diseases.

Review of research into the effects of soil tillage practices on arable crop diseases including data from LIFE programme at Long Ashton.

In: Soil Tillage in Agroecosystems, 187-206, CRC Press,LLC.

ByV.W.L.Jordan & J A Hutcheon (2002)
control of onion couch
 
Control of this weed must be by two methods; 1) control of the perennial weed is best acheived by use of full rate glyphosate either applied in Mid June in set-aside or pre-harvest in winter barley or in autumn stubble in October when the weed is most susceptible. Note control pre-harvest in wheat or September stubbles is poor; 2) control seedlings in a stale seedbed or stubble and then selectively in crop. Be persistent.
what is the stale seebed tehcnique
 
This technique is one designed to encourage weeds to germinate prior to destruction prior to drilling. It is a highly cost effective way of reducing annual grass weed levels. A consolidated seedbed is made either after ploughing or shallow cultivation by Cambridge rolling lighter soils or ring pressing heavier soils. With moisture and time weeds germinate which should be sprayed out prior to drilling.
soil capping, what is it?
 
Soil capping occurs when the surface soil has no structure as a result of degradation by over cultivation, excessive heavy rain, loss of organic matter and running together of soil particles to form a cap. The cap is usually just 10-20mm thick and impeded water infiltration and crop emergence.
how can you improve soil conditions
 
Increase soil organic matter and worm activity by adding FYM or bio-solids, crop residue, growing and incorporating cover crops and improve the crop rotation. Reduce depth and intensity of cultivation. Consolidate loose soil with press/ roll as appropriate, but take care on silts/sands so as not to cap soils. Drain or mole /sub-soil wet/compacted soils. Grow a big rooting crop/ cover.
what is min till
 
Minimum tillage is a form of non-inversion tillage at no more than 3" (8cm) with light discs or shallow tines.
what are the advantages and disadvantages of direct drilling seed?
 
Advantages include; reduced costs of establishment, moisture retention, improved soil structure, and improved worm levels amongst others, but these are dependent on appropriate operation.

Disadvantages include: ease of failure under poor management, need to buy a specialist drill, fits a narrow range of conditions
Measuring soil moisture, at different soil depths, relating to compaction caused by cultivation machinery, has anyone charts of this
 
Sory No we don't have any charts, but you could try Silsoe.
what is sub soil
 
The soil material below the organicly enriched topsoil into which roots can penetrate.
Will direct drilling work on heavy kuyper marl clay? I am concerned that the slots won`t close, seed to soil contact, slugs and water logging will take their toll, thanks
 
In a dry year Kyper Marl can be direct drilled with no problem so long as soil and sub-soil is in good condition. However, do not attempt it under wet conditions due to concerns raised.
What are your thoughts on Biosolids
 
Assuming biosolids = sewage sludge; Good source of slow release N and P, little K unless treated, and of course organic matter. There are strict rules on soil sampling for potentialy toxic elements and rules on the amount of PTEs allowed to be applied. Users should also read the 'Safe Sludge Matrix' available from ADAS Gleadthorpe as this gives guidance as to when applications to a range of crops should not takeplace.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT ADAPTIVE TILLAGE OPERATIONS?
 
Tillage operations should be adapted to suit prevailing conditions, soil type, cropping, investment, tools available/ suitable, mamangement ability. The range of options being: deep - shallow plough; deep tillage to 6-8" (tine/disc); reduced tillage 4-6"(tine/disc); minimum tillage 2-3" (tine/disc) and direct drill or even autocast.
Is autocasting considered different to non-inversion tillage?
 
Yes, whilst both involve no specific tillage, direct drilling involves placement of seed within the soil at a specific depth and consolidated is protected from slugs and is away from straw contact giving a more reliable result. Autocasting is the cheapest method, but not the most flexible/ reliable as seed is exposed to slug predation, lacks soil contact but is in contact with straw so can be affected by chaff/straw spread and risk of being killed by glyphosate off treated straw.
do lime has any other effects than stabilize acidity of the soil?
 
Liming can also improve soil nutrient availability and open soil structure.
if the soil has ph value about 8.5, can be used lime in this case?
 
Absolutely NO
how to calculate norms of lime to the soil?
 
Use soil texture and pH and the table on p6 of RB209.
what causes soil capping
 
Soil instability due to soil degration by over cultivation, over consolidation, reduction in soil organic matter, heavy rainfall, transitory ponding.
what is reduced cultivation
 
A general phrase used to cover the use of less cultivation (depth/ intensity). Typically a non-iversion system of upto 4-6" depth
Contrast minimum tillage is non-inversion of 2-3" depth.
Which is the best way to establish oilseed rape
 
There is NO best way other than to use the technique best suited to the conditions prevailing, equipment available and skill and exprience of the operator. Done correctly and when appropriate each different technique can work, but some are more consistent (direct drill in absence of straw, well managed reduced/minimal tillage in dry/ average conditions) and others less consistent (autocast, ploughing under dry conditions) across varied conditions.
what is beter way mintill or plow
 
There is no better way universally, just appropriate use dependent on prevailing conditions, equipment, rotation, straw disposal and overall management. When conditions are wet min.till fits less well, when conditions are very dry or soils are heavier ploughing fits less well.
how can infiltration rates be measured
 
Detailed scientific examination.

Practically on farm you need an open structure and a healthy soil that allows water infiltration. Check when it next rains and hours/ days afterwards. If water infiltrates you have no problem, but if it runs off or ponds a change in practice is advised.
crop residue - pros and cons
 
Pro's: when well managed => protects soil surface from rain splash and aid water infiltration and help improve soil structure overall reducing soil degradation and erosion.
Con's when badly managed can reduce crop establishment, "hairpin" with disc drills in wet conditions, risk of increased slug problems,
slug pellets earthworms
 
Products based on metaldehyde are safest for earthworms and other beneficials.
How much of the UK is currently direct drilled
 
3% nationally
cost of crop establishment
 
Varies by soil type, implements, labour and tractor and area from approcimately £30/ha for cheaper direct drill to £120/ha on heavier ploughed land.
I have been offered some poultry manure, are there any problems in applying it prior to my min till, autumn sown cereal crops?
 
If you are in a NVZ you cannot apply poultry manure during September and October when growing an autumn sown crop. Poultry manure has a high available N content and if applied in autumn much of this can be lost by leaching overwinter or by volatilisation prior to incorporation. If you do apply it you should use PLANET or MANNER to assess how much N is available for your cereal crop next spring. PLANET and MANNER are available free from ADAS.
should we keep ploughing?
 
It depends on your situation!
- Yes if a smaller family run farm with own labour.
- Question if larger acreage, heavier soils, need to reduce costs.
- Any change needs to be fully researched and justified and the new solution implemented carefully with full reference to the resources/ situation.
power harrows and soil structure
 
Whilst a great tool for bashing a seedbed and providing a level surface, the powerharrow is a tool often associated with damage to soil structure. Over cultivation is all to easy. Intensive cultivation breaks up natural structures and leaves the soil open to capping on sands/ silts, smearing and compaction on clays and drying out resulting not only in the risk of poor crops but also water run-off and soil erosion if carried out inappropriately.
what are the advantges and disadvantges of sandy coarse soil texture
 
Free drainage is a useful advanatage of these soils under wet conditions, but such soils dry quickly and are prone to drought. They are also prone to panning, leaching of nitrogen and soil erosion on slopes, so great care is needed in their management.
what is the effect of soil compaction on soil fauna
 
A likely dramatic fall in soil fauna due to low oxygen levels and/or waterlogging. Change of bacterial content to anaerobic species.
what is the ph of Cotswold Brash
 
Best answer is to get your soil pH tested, but typically pH 8.0-9.5
how do yields compare with reduced tillage
 
Yields under reduced tillage compared to ploughing:
- higher under dry conditions due to better moisture conservation and utilisation.
- similar/ higher where soil and growing conditions are good at establishment and beyond.
- lower than under conditions of impaired establishment/ growth due to compaction/ water-logging/ poor straw incorporation.
what is the effect of minimum tillage on soil moisture in loamy sand
 
Well managed minimum tillage systems help conserve soil moisture and improve uptake and utilisation in most soils thus aiding crop development and performance under drier conditions. However, care must be taken in light loamy sands to avoid compaction, capping and panning by appropriate management.
infiltration referring to no tillage
 
When used appropriately, well managed direct drilling/ no till usually leads to a massive increase in earthworms, improved soil strucutre and thus porosity and water infiltration. Increases are also seen in well managed and approriate use of minimial tillage and reduced tillage systems with benefits over ploughing as regards water infiltration.
silty soil cultivation
 
A more difficult soil type that requires respect to avoid smearing and compaction. Although ideally suited to ploughing, such soils can be minimal/ reduced tilled but benenfit from a good crop rotation, incorporation of organic matter and avoidance of too fine/ tight a seedbed. Avoid compaction, and check regularly.
define soil texture
 
The proportion of different sized soil particles sand,silt and clay a soil contains. Usually determined by hand texturing according to the standard key as DEFRA publication, 'Controlling soil erosion', PB10683, Appendix D, or sieving.
what is a stale seedbed
 
A consolidated seedbed prepared for the weeds in the intercrop period to encourage weed germination ahead of spraying off weeds and subsequent drilling of the next crop into that stale seedbed.
Using disces to 4 inches i find the straw residue seems to effect the cereal establishment and development, 2 weeks behind in the spring, why is this and is there any data on the different crop straw causing different effects
 
There could be many reasons, depending on soil type, timing of cultivation and incorporation of straw, level of consolidation, type and method of drilling used.
High levels of cereal straw can cause problems to second cereals and Oilseed rape in heavier soils. Problem is solvable if more is known.
soil management plan
 
Necessary for ELS if you decide to do one due to extensive problems of soil erosion or degration that need resolving.
reduced tillage in loamy sand
 
Take great care. Traditionally, ploughing is best suited to such soils maintaining an open uncompacted structure. However, ploughing leaves the soil very susceptible to damage and eroson on slopes or capping.
Direct drilling is NOT suitable, but rotational use of reduced tillage minimising intensity of cultivation and leaving a coarser seedbed consolidated with a roll or single press combined with a good crop rotation can be successful. Incorporation or organic matter is advisable to help structure the soil. Avoid and manage compaction as such soils collapse naturally.
Would Direct Drilling Work better in spring? Direct Drilling was popular in Canada when I visited this Spring
 
As always, the success of direct drilling depends on the prevailing conditions. Typically these are more favourable in the UK in autumn or later spring, or spring in Canada. Avoid cold wet conditions.
Where do I get my soil analysised
 
Look on Google under 'soil particle size analysis' for some leads. Or contract your agricultural distributor who may be able to help.

For nutrient levels contact your agricultural distributor or fertilizer supplier as many provide this service.
visual soil assessment
 
Method of assessing soils visually against a series of criteria (soil and crop) to judge how good the soil structure is. Guide available from Vaderstad UK.
What causes soil degration
 
Loss of soil organic matter by oxidation to C02. Compaction by heavy traffic/ cultivation when soil is wet. Over cultivation.
why are parts of eastern england affected by soil erosion when it is windy
 
Occurs on light peaty or sandy loam soils which lack structure and have insufficient plant/ trash cover or stability.
what are possible causes for soil capping
 
Some soils, sands and silts cap naturally as they lack structure. Capping is exacerbated by raindrops, overcultivation and rolling on these sensitive soils. Other soils, clays and clay loams can suffer where soil is damaged by over cultivation after potatoes.
What are the advantages of ploughing?
 
No additional investment as plough often on farm. Buries trash and a bad seed return. Loosen shallow compaction/ ruts. Plant beans as cultivate. Cultivate in surface wet soil where minimum tillage is no longer possible.
what is cotswold brash
 
Clay/ clay loam soil, eg. Brown rendzina, with a high rock fraction overlying limestone, typically on the Cotswolds.
how does liming improve structure in clay soils
 
By reducing the very tight binding of clay particles and improving friability of the soil. Addition of organic matter is also highly beneficial.
why does soil erode
 
Weak structure due to degradation or soil type leaves soil open to erosion by wind and water where protection by a crop/ roots/ surface/ trash is not afforded.
cost per acre autocasting osr
 
Rough cost on farm to allow for purchase, depreciation and maintenance, plus 1 pass of roll and 1 pass of slug pellets; depending on farm size, but say £12-14/acre on 2000-1000 acre unit with 700-350 acres of rape.
What does GAEC and ELS stand for?
 
GAEC is a requirement of EU and UK policy on farmers to maintain land in Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition. ELS stands for Entry Level Stewardship.
what is an action plan that can be used to repair damage from wind and water errosion?
 
Depends what the problem is. Need to identify the causes and rectify them to avoid future problems. Obviously can recover some of the eroded soil from base of field/ ditch/ hedge, but avoidance and good soil management is key (build soil structure, avoid fine seedbeds, utilise cover crops, reduced tillage systems appropriately and consider surface profiling. Get advice from a local adviser or soil scientist as necessary.
why is top soil useful
 
Without top-soil you can't grow crops, so it is the basis of agricultural production. Loose it at your peril. It provides a growing medium, rooting, nutrients and life to plants.
reaserch on autocasting
 
Sorry no experience, other than it can be a variable job.
will a pasture slitter be as effective as subsoiling sandy soils under grass to relieve compaction or are there better tools for loosening these light soils?
 
Unlikely as sandy soils compact naturally and often form pans. It is important to dig a hole and find the problem. If a pan/ tight layer is found that restrcts rooting and drainage then it needs to be broken with sub-soiling mnimising gamage to the sward above. A slitter is only going to slit surface compact and aerate the turf zone.
do i need nitrogen when i am drilling rape
 
Depends on situation and of course proven crop need. Follow RB 209 guidance, but you can apply autumn nirogen to boost crop establsihment where justified. This can be beneficial with minimal tillage after a big cereal crop where breakdown of large amounts of trash can use up available soil N restricting crop growth.
What is the aeration like in silty soils
 
Silty soils are wuite fragile so aeration can be poor as they compact with excessive traffic, cultivation or consolidation. However, well managed with incorporation of organic matter an appropriate cultivation and cropping they can be very productive soils.
when to cultivate silty soil
 
When conditions are dry or moist, but NOT wet so as to minimse soil damage.
cost of powerharrow drill a ha
 
Obviously it varies with farm size, width and soil type, but a figure of £35-45/ha is typical as a farm-based cost with a 3m machine on heavy soil on a farm of 200-400 ha.
WHAT IS DEEP-SHALLOW PLOUGH?
 
True inversion of the soil by a mouldboard plough, typically to a depth of 4" Eco-mat shallow plough to 6-12" with the wide range of other conventional ploughs.
WHAT DOES DEEP TILLAGE TO 6-8" MEAN?
 
Soil loosening, typically with a tined implement.
WHAT DOES REDUCED TILLAGE 4-6" (TINE/DISC) MEAN?
 
This includes forms of tillage with reduced depth (4-6") and intensity compared to traditional ploughing. It is not minimum tillage.
WHAT IS DIRECT DRILLING?
 
Same as No-till as in the USA/ Australia, usually with no cultivation by the drill, managed by discs that cut into stubble to place seed. Others may cultivate the soil surface but there is no need for a separate cultivation pass.
effect of over exploitation on soil profile
 
soil degradation, decreased organic matter, unstable, collapse, depending on soil type and cropping may become more prone to wind and water erosion, capping, water-logging and as a result poor and variable yields.
why is sub-soiling is needed in clay pans
 
Where clay pans exist at depth they prevent effective rooting by the crop restricting water and nutrient uptake thus limiting crop potential, making it more prone to drought, also likely to have poor drainage and thus wetter soils with water-logging and risk of run-off and soil erosion.
factors that determine the planting methods to follow as well as the choice of planting material
 
Size of farm, cropping, soil type, climate, available labour, HP, availble machinery, experience, management ability, finance... See 'Guide to managing crop establishment' by SMI.
how does soil structure influence crop growth
 
Good soil structure is friable, well aerated, full of cracks and worm and root holes with well defined soil aggregates. This aids good rooting, yield potential and ensures good drainage and trafficability.

Damage to the soil structure (compaction, collapse, over-working)removes structure and risks crop potential and water ingress.
AUTOCASTING COSTS VERSUS DRILLING
 
See auto-casting costs
Using named examples discribe how soil management in crop production can influence soil stability in the long term
 
Requirement to plough and destone for potatoes and then lift destroys soil structure and leaves unstable soil to collapse and or erode.

Constant removal of straw with no addition of organic matter leaves to depletion of soil organic matter under arable crops and loss of structure on lighter sandy or silty soils, or clod formation on clayey soils.

Inclusion of deeper rooting cover crops like sainfoin or a cover on set-aside can recover damaged wet clay soils by drying out the soil, inducing cracking, adding organic matter, adding rooting and fissures.

A balance rotation (cereal-break) with direct drilling and minimal tillage can rapidly improve soil structure and stability on suitable soils.
effects of capping on plant growth
 
Capping can at it's extreme prevent crop emergence and in lesser form restrict early plant growth until roots and stem develop sufficiently or cap is broken.
effects of poaching on plant growth
 
Poaching being a form of compaction not only results in water logging when wet but tightens soil in or just below turf restricting rooting notably when dry soil restricting root growth, and reducing drought hardiness, both stressing growth.
what causes soil degration?
 
Excessive cultivation depth and intensity, working soils when wet, heavy loading, loss of soil organic matter causing excessive fragmentation of sandy type soils or clod and pan formation in clays soils and capping in lighter soils.
Minimum tillage generally involves the incorporation of straw: what nutrient values does this provide to the next crop?
 
Most important is the value of the organic matter in building a heathy stable soil; good structure, holding moisture, improving nutrient retention. Straw incorporation returns P, K and N to the soil which would otherwise have to be replaced.
Apart from wind howelse do farmers lose their soil?
 
Erosion by water is the main way, and in the UK accounts for an estimated loss of 2.3mt soil annually. Whilst some is lost very visually leaving big gullies on steeper sandier or silty soils, most is lost on gentler slopes from sheet erosion which is barely perceptable but leaves watercourses clogged with silt, fans of coarser material at bottom of tramlines or the edge of the field.
what is kuyper marl
 
Keuper Marl is a slightly calcareous reddish brown clay/ mudstone with much pulverised quarzitite plus dolomite dating back to the triassic period.
We have recently installed a new pipeline through arable fields and segregated the topsoil and subsoil. What would be the best form of sub-soil preparation prior to replacing the topsoil?
 
Return soil back in order, sub-soil and then top soil and if compaction is evident in the line or around the pipeline sub-soil to remove the compaction.
what is a soil pan
 
A soil pan is a tight layer in the soil which plant roots cannot penetrate.
what is the reservior tillage?
 
Not a tgerm I know
how to improve nutrient level in dry soil
 
Apply water, sorry that is the only posible answer.
what are simba solos performances
 
In what way? Simba will be happy to discuss this with you.
top soil quaility how important?
 
Vital! Topsoil contains most of the nutrients which a crop requires. Also a good quality topsoil has plenty or organic matter which helps to create stable soil structures and thus reduce the risk of soil erosion and capping.
What are the disadvantages of minimum cultivations?
 
A good review of this subject can be found in the booklets 'A Guide to Crop Establishment' and 'Target on Establishment' obtain able from Defra and Vaderstad respectively.
what are the advantages and disadvantages of direct drilling?
 
A good review of this subject can be found in the booklets 'A Guide to Crop Establishment' and 'Target on Establishment' obtain able from Defra and Vaderstad respectively.
Cost of establishment/ ha on 1000ha arable, traditional tillage vs min tillage
 
Why not download the cost calculator from our publications page and put in your own details.
what is direct drilling
 
Direct drilling means sowing the seed without any cultivation apart from what the drill does.
what is the need for lime in horticultural cultivation and cropping
 
Many horticultural crops are sensitive to low pHs therefore there is a need to apply lime. On mineral soils you need to keep the pH at 6.5 or above (particularly where brassicae are grown as club root is more of a problem on acid soils) on organic soils the pH should be kept at 5.8.
capping
 
Capping occurs on sensitive soils when raindrop impact breaks up the surface structure. In wet conditions this can result in surface waterlogging or in dry conditions the cap can dry out and form a physical barrier to seedling emegence. So don't beat the soil to create a seedbed as this is when caps tend to form if heavy rain follows.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of ploughing?
 
A good review of this subject can be found in the booklets 'A Guide to Crop Establishment' and 'Target on Establishment' obtain able from Defra and Vaderstad respectively.
why is sub-soiling needed in soils with clay pans?
 
Very simply if roots can't get through the crop cannot access water and nutrients in the deeper layers.
why should we add well decayed organic matter and basal fertilizer to the soil before transplanting seedlings or grafted plants of perennial crop species?
 
Organic matter helps produce stable soil structures and adds nutrients to the soil. If the soil does not contain enough nutrients for optimum crop growth you need to add fertiliser. It is always worthwhilre to check the nutrient content of your soil by analysis before addin extra nutrients. If levels are not sufficient the crop does not grow as fast and returns will be reduced.
how well does min till work for organic crop establishment?
 
Should do just as well.
how soil consistency affect crops
 
Soil consistency does not directly affect crops as it is a soil physical measurement. Consistency ranges from hard through to liquid and its determination can be a guide to the effects of cultivation on soil. The main state which needs to be assessed is the 'plastic limit' where deformation of the soil takes place and clods and pans are produced thus affecting rooting and possible damage to tubers in the future.
what is an aggregate
 
assemblage of small stones used in making concrete or is soil terms a structure
why are parts of eastern england affected by soil erosion when it is very windy
 
We sugest you read the Defra booklet on this subject as it would take up too much space to here to describe all the reasons.
cotswold brash
 
Thin soil (rendzina) overlying Oolitic Limestone.
tilling properities of cotswold
 
Can be stony but otherwise easy.
expected yeilds on cotswold land
 
Depends on rainfall as the soil is shallow. In a good year 10t/ha of wheat is possible, in a dry year 6.
what is current practice of mole ploughing
 
The same as always - only mole drain when the soil at the depth of operation is plastic and make sure there are field drains with gravel back fill to intercept the water gathered.
maize yeilds on cotswold soils
 
Sorry, no idea. Try the Maize Development Council
alittude of the cotswold
 
Try looking at an Ordance Survey map
what is the effect of initial soil clod diameter and liming on the stability of soil aggregate
 
Try reading Soil Conditions and Plant Growth by E W Russell
best soil moisture content for cultivating land
 
The best moisture content will vary between differnt soil textures. You should aim to cultivate when the soil is friable ie not plastic and not hard.
what is the effect of tillage change on the stability of soil aggregate
 
If the change increases soil organic matter content then stability will increase.
disadvantage of power harrows
 
Please read some of the earlier comments.
advantages of ploughing
 
See some of the comments made earlier.
how to control problem weeds such as Blackgrass, Sterile Brome and Annual meadow Grass in non inversion tillage
 
Please start by reading the third FAQ
how does soil erode
 
Raindrop splash loosens soil particles and further rainfall causes soil movement down slopes. Look at the DEFRA leaflets on soil erosion available online from DEFRA.
what is the potash value of chopped wheat straw
 
RB209 gices figures for K offtake in grain and straw.
what are the main Characteristics of cotswald brash
 
See earlier reply.
advantages of ploughing
 
Please read the thread
What is the minimum depth of soil required for cow grass on a roof top? There is underground drainage.
 
Sorry this is not within our experience. No doubt a search engine will pull up some information for you.

 
   
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