Reduced Tillage Transition Guide
Guide for moving from conventional to reduced tillage, with steps for assessing equipment, residue, weed control and fertility before changing the system. Work through the steps in order and keep notes on what you find along the way.
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GuideSoil, Water & ConservationFree PDF
The steps on this page
- Set clear goals for reducing tillage
- Review soil types and drainage
- Assess residue levels and planter performance
- Plan weed control without tillage passes
- Adjust fertility placement
- Try the change on one field first
- Check compaction and stand establishment
- Record yields and costs
- Adjust the plan each season
How to use this guide
Walk a new hand through the steps once, then let them use the page on their own. Add your own notes as you learn what works.
Where to check the details
This sheet is a general template, so confirm specifics with your own manuals, labels and local rules. For current official guidance, start with USDA NRCS and eXtension.
For more in this area, see the row crop calendar. Between chores, farm.FM has farm humor, including America Rediscovers Making Its Own Fertilizer, and farming farm stories.