Soil depth and tillage effects on dry bean production

Authors: Russo, Vincent

Submitted to: HortTechnology
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 8/1/2003
Publication Date: 9/29/2003
Citation: Russo, V.M. 2003. Soil depth and tillage effects on dry bean production. HortTechnology. 13(4):653-656.

Interpretive Summary: The efficacy of conservation tillage, one version of such is the planting of crops into standing stubble of a different crop, has received attention as an alternative to conventional clean tillage. These tillage methods were evaluated for black and pinto beans in a commercial field. Yield was determined in relation to differences in soil depth to an impervious clay pan which had been plotted for areas encompassing both types of tillage. Yields for plants sown into conventionally tilled soil were better than for plants from conservation tillage. Yield of black bean on soil with a depth of 25 to 50 cm (10 to 20 in) was reduced. When projections of yield from plants at specific soil depths were examined it appeared that deeper soil depths may not be advantageous for production of these cultivars. Conservation tillage did not provide the benefits that would be necessary to improve bean yields in this region.

Technical Abstract: Yield of black and pinto beans were evaluated for plants grown under conventional (clean till) and conservation (planting into standing stubble) tillage for two years on a commercial field in southeastern Oklahoma. Wheat was used as a winter cover in both years in both tillage treatments. Prior to planting a grid pattern was laid out on the field, and at every 6 m (20 ft) east to west and 13.5 (45 ft) north to south samples were taken to determine soil pH and nutrients present to develop fertilizer recommendations. Soil depth to an impervious clay pan was determined and its effects on yield were tested. There was not a significant effect on yield due to year. Yields for plants sown into conventionally tilled soil were better than for plants from conservation tillage. Yield of black bean on soil with a depth of 25 to 50 cm (10 to 20 in) was reduced. When projections of yield from plants at specific soil depths were examined it appeared that deeper soil depths may not be advantageous for production of these cultivars. Conservation tillage did not provide the benefits that would be necessary to improve bean yields in this region.