Tillage effects on properties of Grantsburg soil and growth of corn (Zea mays L.)

A three-year tillage project, involving three treatments of no-tillage (NT), chisel-plow (CP), and moldboard plow (MP), was conducted in Southern Illinois. The objectives of the study were to: (1) determine effects of tillage on properties of a sloping and eroded Grantsburg soil (fine-silty, mixed, mesic Typic Fragiudalf); (2) evaluate effects of tillage on growth and yields of corn; (3) relate the soil property changes as affected by tillage to the growth and yields of corn grown on the plot area on a yearly rotation system; and (4) evaluate the tillage systems for restoration and maintenance of soil productivity. Effects of tillage on mechanical strength were mainly confined to the plow-layer. Soil bulk density was generally higher for NT at planting; however, the bulk density for CP and MP treatments increased later in the season attaining values that were comparable to those of the NT treatment. Tillage reduced soil aggregate stability, organic C, and plant residues remaining at the soil surface at planting. Soil temperature was lower for NT than MP at planting. At planting in 1989, 1990 and 1991, total- and air-porosity were lower for NT than MP. However, later in the season in 1991, NT had higher total- and air-porosity than MP. Plant population was lower for NT as compared to MP during the 1st year, but higher as compared to CP during the 3rd year. Corn grain yield in 1989 was highest for MP and lowest for NT (8400, 9300 and 10500 kg/ha respectively, for NT, CP and MP). The corn yields for 1991 for all treatments were 2300 to 4400 kg/ha lower than for 1989 due primarily to low amount and poor distribution of rainfall as well as insufficient plant available soil water in 1991-growing season.U of I OnlyETDs are only available to UIUC Users without author permissio