As we all know from many of the research finding and our own experience that conservation agriculture (CA) is associated with moderation of the temperature in cropped areas . This happens due to retention of the residues on the field surface. However, we had noticed more frost damage in last three seasons in maize crop raised with CA compared to no residue retention and conventional tilled crop. We had also noticed the ice deposition on the previous crop residue in the CA field. Again this also contribute to negative energy in the field which might causes more frost damage or else the release of energy on melting can enhance energy in field after sunrise. We had not seen any adverse effect of CA on companion wheat, chickpea and mustard crops in the same seasons. So, I want to know why its happening or anybody else noticed this phenomena. Please suggest corrective measures, if any.
Dear Shankar Lal Jat,
In Western Australia, generally with the uptake of CA or no-till we have seen an increase in reproductive frost damage in wheat and barley crops with crop residue retention. There are climatic drivers playing a bigger role than just the farming system here mind you. I have attached a paper which summarises results from recent trials that have been conducted here. If would like more details on frost research here in Australia I suggest typing the terms 'GRDC National Frost Initiative' into Google and you will find more information there.
Cheers,
Brenton
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