Long-Term Tillage and Crop Rotation Effects on Soil Carbon and Soil Productivity in Northeast Iowa

Abstract

<p>Tillage and crop rotation systems have significant long-term effects on soil health and productivity and the soil quality components of soil carbon and other physical, biological and chemical properties of the soil. Furthermore, tillage and crop rotations control weed and soilborne diseases. There is need for a well-defined, long-term tillage and crop rotation study across the different soils and climate conditions in the state. The objective of this study was to evaluate long-term effects of five tillage systems and crop rotations on soil quality and corn and soybean yields.</p>