Smash-ridging cultivation improves crop production

Abstract

Smash-ridging cultivation is an efficient farming method that was recently developed in China. The technique involves vertically cutting by using a spiral drill, causing the soil to ‘suspend’ as ridges, thereby breaking through the traditional plough pan, and thickening the plough layer up to 30–50 cm. Smash-ridging cultivation has effectively improved soil quality and has increased the water and nutrient retention capacity. Loose soil enables the plant’s root system to optimally develop and more efficiently absorb nutrients. This facilitates the growth of the above ground parts of plant, leading to a significant increase in crop yield. This method has been successfully applied on 40 crops and tested in 26 provinces. The yield increase within a single season ranges from 10.0% to 54.8%. This technique may have a positive and extensive impact on food safety and agricultural production in China and the rest of the world.