NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — Leaving crop residue standing after harvest or a failed crop can deliver meaningful soil and economic benefits, while shredding or plowing stubble often works against both goals. That’s the message from Dr. Calvin Trostle, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension agronomist, who says many producers still underestimate the value of existing residue.
Trostle notes that standing stubble serves as a free “dead cover crop,” protecting soil from wind erosion, improving water capture, and reducing surface crusting without requiring additional moisture or inputs. Shredding residue, by contrast, loosens leaves that are more likely to blow away and typically costs about $10 per acre with no measurable return.
Research and field experience indicate that incorporating residue through tillage has little effect on long-term soil organic matter. Instead, leaving root systems intact under minimal tillage yields the greatest gains in soil health. Even low-biomass crops such as cotton and sunflower can provide erosion protection when left standing.
Trostle encourages producers to focus on planting into residue using adjusted equipment rather than removing valuable ground cover.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Standing crop residue protects soil and saves money — shredding often yields little benefit at a higher cost.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Tight beef cow supplies and steady demand point to continued record-level cull cow prices in 2026.
January 15, 2026 11:23 AM
·
A disciplined, breakeven-based marketing plan helps protect margins and reduce risk, even when markets remain unpredictable.
January 15, 2026 10:58 AM
·
StockShowAuctions.com takes us to the Midland County Junior Livestock Show in West Texas, where young producers are showcasing their dedication, skill, and champion livestock.
January 14, 2026 04:27 PM
·
Alissa White with American Farmland Trust joined us to provide insight into climate resilience efforts and strategies to help farmers manage weather-related risks.
January 14, 2026 02:20 PM
·
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to share practical health and safety guidance for managing respiratory and skin health during the winter season.
January 14, 2026 02:04 PM
·
RFD News correspondent Frank McCaffrey reports from Texas on the ongoing water dispute and its implications for U.S. farmers.
January 14, 2026 12:17 PM
·
