Question

do u think retailing stubs in the field help the soil? if so how?

Answer 1

In the past, stubble used to be burnt because it improved weed control and creates easier passage for seeding equipment. However, retaining stubble has several advantages for soil fertility and productivity.

One of the important benefits of stubble retention is reduced soil erosion. Retaining stubble decreases erosion by lowering wind speed at the soil surface and decreasing water run-off. To minimize erosion approximately 50 % ground cover is required and adequate stubble needs to be maintained for 6–8 weeks following seeding (Leonard, 1993).Another advantage of retaining stubble is that it increases soil moisture content by decreasing run-off and increasing infiltration. However, the potential benefits of decreased run-off and increased infiltration will depend on the timing and intensity of rainfall as well as the quantity and orientation of stubble and soil properties.Retaining stubble increases the input of carbon to soil. Stubble is approximately 45 % carbon by weight and therefore represents a significant input of carbon to soil. It can take decades for retaining stubble to increase the amount of total organic carbon in soil.