Field study proves value of variable tillage for yield, efficiency, and sustainability

An on-farm field study in Denmark, conducted by Väderstad, Valtra, and the AGCO agronomy team , has demonstrated the benefits of variable tillage. The research shows that adapting tillage intensity to soil type using prescription mapping can optimise yields, cut fuel costs, and improve field efficiency.

- The objectives of the field study was to determine the optimal settings for the working zones of the cultivator to maximise crop yield. In addition, we aim to increase the understanding about the impact of different tillage depths and consolidation levels on crop development across varying soil types, says Nina Pettersson, Chief Agronomist at Väderstad.

Precision tillage in action

The 50-hectare field featured a mix of light and heavy soils. Four tillage intensities were trialled using the Väderstad TopDown 400 cultivator and the SmartTouch universal ISOBUS terminal of the Valtra Q305 tractor. By leveraging prescription maps, tillage intensity was automatically adjusted in real time to match soil conditions across the field.

- We are excited to see how variable tillage can be implemented on a practical level. The collaboration with Väderstad has enabled us to gather valuable data on how different tillage intensities affect both crop yields and resource use. This is a step forward for sustainable and profitable farming, Jens Christian Jensen, Agronomy and Farm Solutions Manager, AGCO.

Key findings:

• Yield optimisation: Heavier soils required higher tillage intensity to reach the full yield potential, while lighter soils maintained yields at medium intensity - demonstrating that “less is more” in the right conditions.
• Fuel savings: Reducing tillage intensity from high to medium saved over 5 litres of fuel per hectare.
• Efficiency gains: Field efficiency increased by more than 1 hectare per hour using a lower tillage intensity.
• Soil health: Lower tillage intensity, where appropriate, helps preserve soil structure and long-term productivity.

- This study confirms that precision tillage is not just a technological feature, but a practical solution for farmers seeking to maximise returns and field performance. By matching tillage intensity to soil needs, farmers can optimise yields, save on fuel, and protect their most valuable asset—the soil, says Wolfram Hastolz, Commercial manager Tillage equipment at Väderstad, and adds:

- Equipping the Väderstad TopDown cultivator with E-Services allows the machines to use prescription maps to adjust the machine settings automatically on the go. This means that before going to the field, the farmer can program how the individual working zones—discs, tines, levellers, and packer—should behave at specific spots in the field. Decisions can be based on, for example, a soil type map, yield map, or the farmer’s own experience of the field characteristics.

Looking ahead

The field study was a joint initiative between Väderstad, Valtra, and the AGCO agronomy team, combining agronomic expertise and cutting-edge machinery to deliver actionable insights for the farming community.

The findings underscore the importance of adopting precision agriculture tools to meet the challenges of modern farming.