Non-inversion tillage has a role to play in organic sector

The benefits of not ploughing on farm were numerous: lower fuel use, increased organic matter accumulation, an increase in moisture retention and a reduction in water run-off and compaction. If done incorrectly, however, non-inversion tillage could lead have a detrimental affect on yields, said Mr Measures.

Trials were on going with a German-built modular designed cultivator called the Eco-Dyn, which featured rigid tines with duck feet and, most importantly, a precise level of working depth control, said Mr Measures.

Trials at the Organic Research Centre, Elm Farm, in collaboration with the Institute of Organic Training and Advice (IOTA), are ongoing, comparing non-inversion plots alongside ploughed plots.

“Results so far show the Eco-Dyn has produced a thicker crop (of spring oats) than the plough, which was also slower to establish,” he said. “Soil moisture levels were also better in the non-inversion side of the field.”

In terms of weed control levels in 2010, the non-inversion crop had higher levels of docks than the plough, but lower levels of thistles.

The trials will run the duration of a six-year rotation.

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