In “Epicenter Agro”, they completely abandoned plowing, instead using non-inversion tillage systems: deep ripping, chisel plowing, no-till, and even direct sowing without prior cultivation.

This decision was based on the results of long-term production trials and had both economic and environmental reasons, writes Latifundist.com.

Firstly, due to the low amount of precipitation in most regions (210–400 mm of precipitation per season), plowing proved ineffective and led to a decrease in the yield of early grain and oilseed crops by 3–15%. For late-harvest crops (corn, sunflower), the difference favoring plowing was observed only during the initial stages of transition, but after 3–4 years of using non-inversion tillage technologies, these differences were eliminated.

Secondly, it was necessary to work on preserving the microbiological structure of the soil and increasing its fertility.

As noted by Andriy Lypnytskyi, Deputy Chief Agronomist of the Agro Department of “Epicenter K”, in the initial stages, the transition to non-inversion tillage technologies was accompanied by an increase in the number of weeds, pests (particularly mouse-like rodents), and the need for a greater amount of PPP (graminicides, rodenticides). Additionally, investments in machinery were required—from cultivators and implements for crushing plant residues to precision planters. However, over time, the systematic application of these technologies allowed the situation to stabilize and optimize costs.

We are currently observing positive changes. With no-plow tillage, more moisture is retained in the soil, the risk of erosion is reduced, and the structure of the soil profile itself improves. Most importantly, the balance of soil microorganisms is restored, as aerobic and anaerobic microflora remain in their ‘natural’ horizons. This contributes to increased fertility and long-term soil stability,” he said.

Furthermore, the economic efficiency of no-plowing systems proved to be 10–28% higher.