It is also recommended to plant 3-4 different varieties to combat the many unpredictable problems that may occur over a growing season. Disease and insect resistance. Resistance to lodging and shattering. Drill small grain seeds in no-tilled fields. The stubble from untilled fields reduces soil erosion, assists in moisture retention, and traps snow for overwintering varieties.
Snow insulates the crop and improves the crop's overwintering ability.
In addition, proper distribution and chopping of straw for overwintering varieties improves overwintering abilities. No-till planting often means rotating winter crops with early maturing spring crops such as barley, to ensure the presence of stubble in autumn. It is also important to note that planting into wheat stubble also increases the risk of foliar diseases and prevalence of ergot, particularly in rye, which is highly susceptible. Treat seed for disease. Plant recommended varieties at recommended rates.