Effect of Tillage Systems and Wheat Residue Management Methods under Different Crop Rotations on Soil Moisture Storage and Crop Yield in 3 Rainfed Areas of Jordan

Experiments were conducted for 10 years (1990 to 2000) in 3 different rainfall zones of Jordan to study the effect of tillage and wheat residue management methods on soil moisture storage from rainfall and crop yield under different crop rotations. The results showed significant effects for certain tillage treatments on total actual evapotranspiration (Etc), but no effects on water use efficiency (WUE) or yield. Using the sweep plow is the most suitable for the land preparation for wheat or lentil planting in case of wheat/lentil rotation. Wheat yield in the three year rotation (wheat/lentil/melon) in the high and medium rainfall zones was higher than wheat yield after lentil in the two year rotation (wheat/lentil). Rainfall use efficiency (RUE) decreased in the wet season compared to the dry season. No significant differences were found among the three methods of wheat residue management, therefore, in wind erosion affected regions, incorporation of residue late in the season is recommended