Illinois Field Crop Applicators Practice Test

True or false: No till or reduced tillage decreases the number of large seeded summer annuals that germinate deeper.

1. True

2. False

3. Only in dry conditions

4. Only in wet conditions

The correct answer is: True

The statement is true because no-till or reduced tillage practices minimize soil disturbance, which can have a significant impact on seed germination, particularly for large-seeded summer annuals. In a no-till system, the soil structure remains intact, which can prevent large seeds from being buried deeply. This limited soil disturbance allows these seeds to remain closer to the surface, where conditions are more favorable for germination, such as access to sunlight and appropriate moisture levels. Additionally, reduced tillage practices contribute to a more consistent residue cover on the soil surface, which can suppress the germination of certain weeds, including large-seeded summer annuals, by competing for light and moisture. This means that in no-till systems, not only are the seeds less likely to be placed at deeper levels in the soil, but the conditions created in such environments are less conducive to their successful germination. In contrast, tillage that disrupts the soil can bury seeds deeper, making it more challenging for them to germinate effectively. The relationship between tillage practices and seed germination is essential for effective weed management in crop production systems.