Plant residues from the previous crop are very effective in reducing soil erosion. However, if not properly managed, surface plant residues increase the risk of poor stand establishment for com (Zea mays. L.) and reduce yield potential of com when grown, especially following com, with conservation tillage production systems. A series of field studies evaluated residue management when planting com in no-tillage systems. Com planted by use of planters with residue clearing attachments emerges more rapidly than com planted with use of rolling coulter attachments. Row cleaners not only reduce plant residue above the seed row, but also result in less residue being placed into the seed zone. Removing residue from a 3- to 6-in band over the seed row allows rapid seedling emergence and good crop yields, while maintaining adequate residue cover for erosion control.