Subsoiling an irrigated and dryland Brown Chernozem: effects on soil density, moisture, yield, and economic return

Non-Peer ReviewedThere has been a renewed interest in subsoiling among agricultural producers in Saskatchewan, looking to improve soil water management and crop yield. Subsoiling in this study was performed using a Paraplow (Howard Rotavator). Evaluating the tillage effects of subsoiling, looking at changes to bulk density and moisture, and crop yield. Paraplowing reduced bulk density and its effects persisting over multiple field seasons. The changes to the soil physical properties also had an affect on crop production, observing variations in grain yield in the dryland cropping system, but no measurable effect in irrigated systems. It is important to also consider if the operation is economical. Without a multi-year yield benefit it is difficult recover the costs of the operation