Missouri Department of Conservation

Root Plowing

Save Those Hedgerows

Root plowing is a relatively new concept in the Midwest, but this technique has a history dating back several years in the Great Plains. In fact, several Western states have been using root plows for quite a few years. As long ago as 1932 the value of root plowing was known.

Root plows have a sharpened steel shank. The plow is attached to a tractor's three-point hitch, inserted into the ground and pulled through the soil parallel to the hedgerow. This operation severs moisture-seeking roots which project into crop fields causing moisture stress to crops during hot, dry periods.

Root plows halt the sapping effect of tree borders on adjacent crops without destroying the windbreak, its value as wildlife cover or its other benefits to crop yields.

Windbreaks have been shown to cause increased crop yields in adjacent fields. This occurs because of the moderating effect windbreaks have on temperature and humidity. Root plowing allows crops to be grown in the low-yielding "sapped" zone next to windbreaks. This technique is especially applicable to Osage-orange hedgerows, but works on other tree species as well. Trees with sizable lateral root systems lend themselves well to root plowing.

Root Plow Research

Several research studies have proven the value of root plowing. In one Kansas study a mile of hedgerow was root plowed and a mile was left unplowed. Crop yields were compared 75 feet into each field for the 2-mile distance. The root plowed strip yielded about 240 bushels more than the unplowed area.

In another study conducted at the University of Nebraska Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, a 36-acre crop field protected by a 4-acre windbreak produced 23 percent more soybeans and 18 percent more wheat than a 40-acre, unprotected crop field.

Root Plow Use

The following guidelines will ensure a safe, effective experience with the root plow.

1. Use at least a 70 HP tractor.
2. A 2-foot-deep furrow is the goal. Don't attempt the 2-foot depth at one pass. Accomplish this depth in two operations. Excessive stress probably will cause equipment damage.
3. Never root plow until you know the locations of all buried hazards such as gas, electric and water lines.
4. Plow about 2 feet out from the tree's drip line and at least I5 feet from the main trunks. If any sprouting tends to occur, crop cultivation should eliminate this problem.
5. When root plowing on steep erodible ground, offset the trench every 100 feet so rainwater can't concentrate and form a ditch.

Many Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) have root plows which are available for your use. If you are interested, check with your SWCD or local Soil Conservation Service office for more information. They have details concerning the use of this implement.