Part 1, Section 7: Small Grains
NO-TILLAGE SMALL GRAIN ESTABLISHMENT
Each of the small grain crops can be established using no-till seedings. No-till is especially well suited for oats and spring barley seedings because these crops respond well to early planting and yield less when planting dates are delayed by tillage. Wheat and barley can also be no-tilled, but they often experience slower growth and are at slightly more risk for scab, especially when planted into corn residue.
Pay particular attention to spreading residue evenly across the field to ensure good seed to soil contact. In corn stalks, some have reported more success by planting on an angle to existing rows to minimize residue problems and reduce trash buildup. Consider increasing seeding rates by 15 percent above those recommended for conventional tillage. Also, burn down any existing weeds prior to establishment.