Research in North Carolina has shown that as crop residues degrade during the wheat season, more and more nitrogen is pulled out of the soil. So none of the nitrogen tied up in the residue becomes available for the wheat. In fact, sometimes it is not released until subsequent crops. Conclusions No-till wheat in the Southeast is not for the casual producer. It demands more care and attention to detail than conventional-till wheat.
Timely planting is critical.
Correct variety selection is critical. Increased seeding rates and attention to drill performance is essential. Timing topdressed nitrogen based on tiller density at the first signs of spring can help thin no-till stands catch up and yield better. No-till wheat can work. It can yield well, and be a great strategy for many producers.