The first step in controlling weed, disease and insect problems is to develop a basic understanding of each major crop pest you encounter in your area. This does not mean that producers will need university degrees in plant pathology, entomology and weed science, but it may mean reading some Extension publications or possibly attending some conferences that address pest problems in their area. In conventional tillage systems, intensive tillage has served as a substitute for other pest management choices, one of the most significant being crop rotation, Crop rotation is probably the single most effective pest management tool in conservation tillage. It is particularly important in reducing the potential for many soilborne diseases of cereals, as well as other crops. For example, crop rotations with 2 years out of winter cereals can effectively control Cephalosporium stripe in winter wheat under conservation tillage.
Crop rotation is important in weed control as well.
Combine Residue Distribution Producers successfully using conservation tillage often list uniform residue distribution from the combine as one of the first important steps. Commercial straw and chaff spreaders, now available for most combine models, and farmer shop modifications are often very effective in eliminating straw and chaff row problems. Pacific Northwest Extension Bulletin PNW 297, Uniform Combine Residue Distribution, provides more information on this topic. The advantage of placement can be enhanced or overshadowed, however, by other factors which influence plant nutrient uptake. The greatest response to fertilizer banding is on soils with low soil-test nutrient levels and under cold wet conditions.