No-till seeding in the Mediterranean

NATAE Practice abstract n. 15: Resilience. Working Package 7. A NATAE practice abstract is a summary that describes an agroecological practice that can be used as a valuable resource by farmers, researchers, policy makers, and other stakeholders interested in adopting or promoting agricultural practices that contribute to sustainability, productivity, and competitiveness in the agricultural sector. This document focuses on no-till seeding in the Mediterranean, a key practice in conservation agriculture. It highlights the benefits of direct seeding—such as preserving soil moisture, reducing erosion, and enhancing biodiversity—while emphasizing its suitability for cereals and legumes. Challenges include the high cost of specialized equipment, residue management, weed control, and the need for farmer training. Solutions like compact seed drills, collective equipment sharing, and integrated weed management are discussed. The document underscores the importance of adapting techniques to local conditions and supporting farmers through training and subsidies.