Have you tried no-till in your fields? According to Chad Lee, this may be something more farmers should consider. No-till practices have recently been credited with increasing soybean yields in certain parts of the country.

“Over the last forty years, no-till practices have come a long way. Farmers have learned to better manage no-till practices, which has improved soybean yield,” says Lee, a University of Kentucky Extension specialist. “No-till practices use less fuel, conserve soil, build soil structure and hold more water, all of which can improve yield.”

In a recent “Focus on Soybean” webcast, Lee discusses the history and benefits of using no-till and how it can significantly impact soil structure.

Factors that lead to better soybean yields in no-tilled fields include:

In order for no-till practices to be successful in soybean fields, Lee notes a successful weed-management plan must be in place. Crop rotation as well as a residual herbicide should be applied.

The soy checkoff sponsors the “Focus on Soybean” webcasts through a partnership with the Plant Management Network. All U.S. soybean farmers have access to this full presentation for free until April 14, while a shorter executive-summary version of the presentation is always available.