Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

How crop residues are managed is crucial in no-till systems, yet the optimal way to handle them under Nordic conditions remains unclear. This field study examined how different stubble heights and associated straw residue levels influence soil temperature, soil water content, decomposition parameters and crop emergence across four Swedish farms with contrasting soil textures and climates. Each farm had one field experiment with three treatments: Control without straw residues (C), low stubble with chopped straw residues (LS) and high stubble with chopped straw residues (HS). Soil microclimate was monitored using TMS sensors and decomposition was measured using the Tea Bag Index method.
High stubble slightly reduced soil temperature, probably through decreased solar radiation due to shading, while low stubble with more straw residues often increased soil water content by reducing evaporation and increasing infiltration. However, the treatment effect was highly variable and site-specific. Soil moisture and accumulated temperature explained more of the variation in decomposition rate and stabilization factor than stubble height alone. Effects on early crop biomass were limited and inconsistent among crop species and sites.
Overall, the results suggest that local conditions had a larger effect on soil conditions than stubble height alone. However, a high stubble tends to have no negative effects and could be used as a cheaper, less labour-intensive alternative. To further improve no-till systems in Sweden, more research on alternating straw residue management is needed, along with improved drilling technology, crop rotations and long-term adjustments to the system.
Keywords: No-tillage, stubble height, crop residues, soil temperature, soil water content, decomposition, crop emergence.