Fallow Information

The process of using herbicides instead of mechanical tillage to control summer fallow weeds has many names: no-till, chem-fallow, and eco-fallow are a few examples.

No matter which name you give the process, there are several generally agreed upon truths:

    • Each mechanical cultivation dries out the soil to the depth of the tillage and it reduces the amount of standing residue. Saving this moisture is one of the major benefits of a reduced tillage program.

     • If the field has upright stubble during a snowstorm, a greater amount of moisture will be collected because the stalks capture the snow, especially in windy conditions. In snowy winters, this can be a significant factor in increasing the moisture profile.

     • Planting a spring crop in heavy plant residue often requires later planting dates because the soil temperature is reduced, and specialized equipment may be required to achieve an acceptable stand. In some cases, the incidence of plant disease is increased in these conditions.

Many farmers use a combination of herbicides to control weeds until they are closer to planting time, then they employ mechanical means to till the soil and prepare the seedbed.

The choice of herbicides for a reduced tillage operation is complex: consideration must be given to the types of weeds to be controlled, the type of crop which will be planted, the time until the next crop is planted, the amount of soil moisture available, and finally, the cost effectiveness of the various herbicide choices.

Some contact herbicides, including glyphosate (generic RoundUp™), are deactivated by contact with the soil, so any dust created or present during the application process can reduce efficacy.     

We are happy to provide you with advice as to the best timing and herbicide choices, whether we apply the products or simply sell you the herbicides.  Please contact us with your questions.