Crop Rotation

Most progressive producers have switched to some kind of a crop rotation. It’s natural for anyone who has owned land or farmed for any length of time to feel anxious about switching to another crop besides winter wheat but the realization is that growing the same crop year after year is not the best production system. Pest problems, especially weeds begin to reduce yield and decrease profitability. There are numerous crops that are suitable and can be grown profitably in Oklahoma. Crop rotation can be broken down into two simple terms: intensity and diversification. Intensity is the number of crops grown in a given time frame and diversity refers to the number of different types of crops grown. The biggest benefits of crop rotation are improved yields and increased revenue.

Oklahoma Crop Rotation Facts

  • Several crops can be grown in Oklahoma profitably.
  • Diversification of crops is important; include winter and summer crops as well as broadleaves and grasses in the rotation.
  • Intensity of crop rotation can range from three crops in two years to four crops in three years depending on amount of annual rainfall.
  • Crop rotation can increase wheat yields 10-20 percent.
  • Crop rotation is an important part of a no-till system in Oklahoma.

Why switch to crop rotation from a land-owner’s point of view?

  • Allows producer’s to increase cropping intensity, which can help their profitability and potentially yours.
  • Better utilization of natural resources.
  • Crop rotation can help diversify market risk.