Which tillage system is characterized by planting straight crops in a minimum amount of soil tillage?

The correct response identifies strip tillage as a tillage system where crops are planted in rows over minimally disturbed soil. This practice involves the deliberate loosening of the soil only in the rows where seeds will be planted, leaving the rest of the field in its natural state. This approach benefits the environment by minimizing soil erosion, conserving moisture, and enhancing soil health by maintaining more of the soil structure and microbial activity compared to conventional tillage methods that involve extensive soil disruption.

Strip tillage optimizes nutrient management by allowing crops to establish in a controlled environment while still preserving some of the residue and benefits of the previous crop. This can lead to improved water infiltration and reduced compaction compared to more aggressive tillage methods.

The other tillage systems do not match this specific definition. Conventional tillage typically involves turning over the entire soil profile, which can result in more erosion and soil disturbance. Contour tillage focuses on the land’s topography to aid in preventing erosion but does not emphasize minimal tillage. Ridge tillage involves creating raised beds and planting crops in these elevated areas, which also does not meet the criteria of minimal soil disturbance throughout the entire growing area.