Effects of paratilling on soil bulk density and infiltration

Non-Peer ReviewedParatilling is a form of non-inversion deep tillage sought after by producers for its effectiveness at loosening soil structure without compromising the soil conservation practices that are already employed on the farm. An experiment was set up to evaluate the tillage effects of paratilling. Looking at changes to the soil physical properties, bulk density and infiltration, and crop yield. Initially, paraplowing reduced bulk density and soil strength but with over time these effects were eroded. At the Vertisolic site the effects were lost before the end of the first growing season, which may be a result of natural processes and the unusually wet spring. Infiltration increased as a result of paratilling. Soil loosening did not increase yield suggesting that soil structure is not limiting plant growth at these sites. Paratilling is only feasible if a yield response is observed