No-till and Weed Control
There is no easy answer for weed control on farm ground. Generally, weed control is done in the same way as conventionally tilled fields. However if growers get into a multi-year program of no-till, they should find weed control becomes progressively somewhat easier. Reports from areas where no-till is established indicate ground cover from the previous harvested crop has proven to significantly reduce germination of weeds.
Where organic crops are being grown, no-till practices are proving to substantially reduce the weed population. This is considered very valuable, since chemical control of weeds is prohibited in certified organic fields and there is usually a premium paid for certified organic crops.
Research continues with alternative off-season cover crops. The goal is to develop plants that have the capability of disrupting weed growth prior to planting of the commercial crops. Various forms of mustard plants and others have been marginally successful, however, there is no magic solution available yet. With the public demand growing for “organic” foods, no-till farming is fast becoming a favorable tool.
No-till and Water
Conservation
No-till and Water Quality
What crops can be planted?
No-till and Weed Control
No-till and Crop Yields
No-till and Sustainable Agriculture