Soil Compaction Mitigation Under No-Tillage Using Low Seedbed Mobilization Results on Increases of Soybean Yield in an Ultisol

This study evaluated the operational performance of tine furrow openers with different rake angles in relation to soil physical quality and soybean yield under no-tillage in an Ultisol within the Pampa Biome. The aim was to understand how soil mobilization impacts soil structure, crop emergence, and productivity. Measurements included soil physical quality (furrow cross-section, mean furrow depth, soil penetration resistance), plant development (emergence, stand, grain yield), and equipment performance (draft force, fuel consumption, wheel slip). Tests compared rake angles of 26º and 18º, considering traffic intensity and soil conditions. Data were collected across multiple passes to assess the effects of soil compaction and traffic history. Reducing the rake angle from 26º to 18º decreased soil mobilization, energy consumption, and fuel use, while increasing soybean grain yield. Wheel slippage was lower in areas previously trafficked under no-tillage. Soil penetration resistance up to approximately 3.5 MPa did not limit emergence or yield, even in compacted soils with multiple passes. The results indicate that smaller rake angles reduce soil disturbance without compromising crop performance. Using tine furrow openers with rake angles up to 18º mitigates soil compaction in no-tillage systems, including in compacted soils, without negatively affecting soybean emergence or productivity. This practice enhances operational efficiency and crop yield, supporting sustainable soil management in Ultisols.