This will not prevent infections from surrounding fields, but these are often less severe. The control of plant diseases associated with conservation tillage systems can be accomplished by a variety of means without significantly increasing production costs. The selection of a correct cropping sequence is critical in a conservation tillage system. Potential disease problems increase when a crop is planted into its own residue from the previous season instead of that of a non-related crop. When two crops susceptible to the same diseases are to be planted in sequence, plant the most susceptible crop first.
Many varieties presently grown are resistant to some of the most serious diseases of field crops.
Planting certified seed ensures good germination and seedling vigor. Good control of weeds often reduces potential inoculum sources in or around a field. It also discourages insect pests that may transmit or help in the dispersal of plant diseases. For certain diseases, seed treatment or foliar fungicide applications are as effective and practical means of control. Seed treatments should be used routinely, particularly where non-certified seed is planted.