Effects of Reduced Tillage on Soil Temperature and Plant-Extractable Water

Abstract

Tillage systems influence soil temperature, available water, and subsequently, growth of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Field experiments were conducted in Corpus Christi, Texas, to determine how conventional tillage (CT) and reduced tillage (RT) systems influence soil temperature and plant-extractable water. Cotton was planted following sorghum [Sorghum bieolor (L.) Moench], the residues of which were managed either by reduced or conventional tillage. The study consisted of field measurements of soil temperature and volumetric water content. Average soil temperatures under RT were about 2 C lower than CT. Plant-extractable water was 2.1 cm (0.8 inches) greater in RT than CT.