Yields and Profitability during and after Transition in Organic Grain Cropping Systems

Abstract

The transition period to organic grain production presents an economic obstacle for farmers, and early management may affect subsequent crop performance. Using a corn–soybean–winter spelt/red clover [Zea mays L.–Glycine max (L.) Merr.–Triticum spelta L./Trifolium pratense L.] rotation in central New York, we compared yields and economics in four organic cropping systems during and after transition. These were high fertility (HF), low fertility (LF), enhanced weed management (EWM), and reduced tillage (RT). Corn and soybean yields in HF, LF, and EWM were similar among systems throughout the experiment and averaged 65 and 91%, respectively, of those in surrounding Cayuga County (CC) during transition. In the first year after transition, HF, LF, and EWM corn yields averaged 63% of CC, but after that 98 to 114% of CC. Soybean yield trends relative to CC remained the same after transition. Transitional spelt yields tended to be higher in HF and EWM than in LF. Spelt yields after transition were variable. Starting in 2006, RT yields were lower than other organic systems in all crops due to equipment problems. Weeds generally increased in all systems over 6 yr, and reached the highest biomass levels in RT and HF. Under our soil and climate conditions, higher fertility amendments in HF compared with LF increased weed biomass but not corn or soybean yield. Economic budgets revealed lower relative net returns (RNR) during transition for the HF, LF, and EWM systems compared with values calculated from CC yields and practices, but higher RNR thereafter.