Farmer Shares Success Stories And Strategies Of No-Till Operation

Last week, farmers from around the state gathered to learn about no-till farming in Leedey, Oklahoma during the Whirlwind No-Till Expo. Local no-till farmer, Jimmy Emmons was there to host the expo and guided a tour of his soil-centric operation highlighting several innovations implemented on his farm to those in attendance eager to learn his methods.

“Traditionally around here people would tell you, you couldn’t raise milo because it would burn up in this heat and wouldn’t pollinate,” Emmons said, “but we are proving that it can be done.”

Emmons is accomplishing this by utilizing a cover crop system to increase water ‘infiltration’ into the soil. He explained that this method allows rain water to penetrate deep into the soil and stores itself there to be used by plants as needed, remaining safe from evaporation thanks to the shady cover crops.

Another method being experimented with on Emmons’ farm is ‘pollinator strips.’ According to Emmons, pollinator strips consist of multiple species of flowering plants that pollinate at different times, attracting a variety of beneficial insects that prey on pest insects. He cited one instance where certain plants attracted dragonflies that preyed on sugarcane aphids infesting his crop. He claimed the aphids were eradicated by the dragonflies within a few days. Emmons explained that research was being conducted to decipher the exact area that can benefit from a pollinator strip. He believes that strategic placement of strips around the borders of a field could greatly discourage the intrusion of harmful insects.

Historically, native prairies accommodated approximately 100 different plant varieties at a time in one area, Emmons said. His experience bringing in more natural methods of cultivating land, allowing multiple species of plants and livestock access to an area creates a symbiotic system that results in healthier soil, which in turn promotes plant growth.