Choosing cultivation for dry soils

Abstract

<p>More than half of Iowa's producers choose to cultivate every year. But this year, it's dry over much of the state, and predictions of a season-long drought have many producers concerned about weed control and cultivation. Regardless of moisture levels, most soil conservation plans seek to minimize cultivation and soil disturbance. But no producer should be expected to endure serious yield and income losses due to weed infestations. Cultivation results in a wide range of weed control effectiveness. Although a single cultivation cannot provide adequate weed control by itself, the use of row cultivation can reduce weed control costs and shifts in weed populations when used to supplement herbicides.</p>