How Strip Tillage Practices Improve Seedbeds, Reduce Erosion, and Boost Spring Planting Success

Strip tillage is a type of reduced-width tillage that disturbs only a narrow band of soil (typically 7-10 inches wide) and is becoming increasingly popular among farmers. This method blends the advantages of both no-till and conventional tillage systems. In the spaces between the tilled strips, soil aggregates and surface residue remain undisturbed, which helps maintain soil structure and root channels for proper drainage, reduces wind and water erosion, and safeguards habitats for beneficial soil microbes essential to nutrient cycling. The tilled strips themselves provide a well-prepared seedbed, improving the chances for successful planting.

Cargill growers Randy and Jayden Salisbury from Sparland, IL, have adopted strip tillage in recent years and are very satisfied with its benefits—especially its effectiveness in controlling soil erosion. “Strip till is quickly catching on in my area,” says Randy. He and his son Jayden practice strip tillage in the fall to create an optimal seedbed for spring planting. Randy notes that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach; instead, he recommends learning from experienced practitioners.

Randy shares, “We had a neighbor who started using strip tillage, and I paid close attention to his methods. After seeing positive results, I spoke with him frequently.” Both Jayden and Randy suggest testing strip tillage techniques on small plots first to become comfortable with the equipment, seedbed preparation, and timing in your crop rotation.

Follow along with their strip-tilling and conservation journey in the Cargill and American Farmland Trust video series: Farming with the Seasons: Randy and Jayden Salisbury