Effect of Tillage and Chemical Weed Control Practices on Soil Moisture Losses during the Fallow Period

Abstract

Abstract Maintaining surface residues with stubble‐mulch tillage or chemical weed control significantly improved moisture conditions in the seed zone and markedly reduced surface crusting. Field and laboratory studies showed the drying rate of the 0‐ to ½‐inch portion of the soil profile was greatly reduced by plant residues on the soil surface. However, under field conditions soil moisture content below 2 inches was not materially increased by surface residues. The value of surface residues to increase moisture storage during the fallow period is discussed.