Comparisons of reduced time and energy seedbed preparation systems: year 1

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Abstract
Reduced time and energy seedbed preparation methods were compared with conventional ploughing methods. Maize was sown in the spring followed by winter oats. Cultivation techniques were studied by comparing crop yields from each treatment over identical growth periods. Systems of cultivation were also studied, comparing yields obtained for a full cycle of growth from sowing to sowing thereby allowing for any short fallow period which was an essential part of the conventional ploughing treatments. Total annual yields were also compared. Once-over, directdrilled, and conventional fallow tillage techniques gave similar maize dry matter yields, all significantly greater than minimum tillage or rotary cultivated techniques. Oats yields showed no difference. On comparing systems, the direct-drilled, once-over, and rotary-cultivated treatments gave highest maize yields. Highest oats yields were obtained from the once-over and minimum tillage systems. Fallow tillage systems gave least yields of both crops. Highest total yields were obtained after the onceover and direct-drilled treatments with fallow tillage producing the lowest yield. Split plots used to compare the effects of weeds and no weeds showed that weeds caused yield reductions for all treatments ranging from 6.5% for direct-drilled to 16.8% for rotary-cultivated. No energy measurements were taken but the systems claimed to save most fuel, namely direct-drilling and once-over cultivation, did so without loss of yield. The trial will be continued indefinitely to study longer term effects.