%K organic farming, no-tillage, crop rotation, soil carbon, weed control
%D 2008
%T Performance of Organic Grain Cropping Systems in Long-Term Experiments
%A John R. Teasdale
%A Michel A. Cavigelli
%L orgprints11539
%X Organic farming and conventional no-tillage farming systems share many of the same benefits from protecting and improving soils.  A review of recent results from two long-term systems experiments in the mid-Atlantic region of the U.S.A. demonstrates that organic cropping systems with organic amendments can increase soil carbon, nitrogen, and yield potential more than conventional no-tillage, despite the use of tillage in organic systems.  However, reduced-tillage organic systems present challenges for weed control, particularly with simple rotations typical of conventional grain cropping systems.  Organic systems that employ more complex rotations including a hay crop have demonstrated greater potential for improved weed control, increased nitrogen availability, and increased yields.