Crop residue also acts as a mulch, reducing moisture losses through evaporation. However, reducing evaporative losses can be a disadvantage on wet soils and may delay spring field operations. Although residue management can effectively control erosion, some problems do emerge with increased residue levels. Residue can provide good weed seed environment and may block herbicide movement to the soil. Moist soils may interfere with herbicide incorporation and low temperatures beneath residue may delay planting and seed germination.
Excessive residue can clog implements or otherwise hamper tillage and planting operations.
It may also provide a winter habitat for rodents, insects and pathogens. Potential problems should not be ignored. However, good management techniques can minimize many of the disadvantages associated with residue management. Crop and tillage system rotations can help reduce the problems associated with weeds, insects and diseases. Depending on the residue level, chopping or shredding can minimize potential clogging problems.