Different Soil Cultivation Systems and Their Implications for Nutrient Planning and Energy Use.

Abstract

The management of soil and crop establishment techniques is fundamental to successful and economically viable cropping. This paper examines the impact of different techniques on a range of important practical, economic, agronomic and environmental factors which interact and consequently require a knowledge intensive, integrated approach. Reducing the intensity of soil cultivation is beneficial to soil structure, erosion and nutrient loss as well as providing an advantageous habitat for soil organisms and farmland birds. Energy usage is also reduced. As conflicts arise between the need to increase yields, conserve nutrients, energy and wildlife, farmers will increasingly need to rely on their ability to balance multiple objectives.