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
Income support helps, but farm finances remain tight heading into 2026.
February 09, 2026 03:04 PM
·
New Holland VP Ryan Schaefer shares insights into the brand’s legacy and innovations that support U.S. cattle producers.
February 09, 2026 02:46 PM
·
Corey Owens of the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo Association shares updates about this year’s event and its continued impact on youth, agriculture, and the San Angelo community.
February 09, 2026 02:37 PM
·
Success requires more than talent — on this week’s FFA Today, agriculture students show us the hard work, dedication, and teamwork required to gain important skills outside of the classroom through the National FFA Organization.
February 09, 2026 01:17 PM
·
Federal assistance has helped, but the most recent row-crop losses remain on producers’ balance sheets.
February 09, 2026 01:07 PM
·
NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart breaks down CAFO permits, EPA enforcement, and what cattle producers need to know as rules continue to evolve.
February 09, 2026 12:21 PM
·
