Defining tilling as just the practice of loosening soil for seedbed preparation would be a misnomer in modern agriculture.
That’s because the latest tillage solutions offer so much more!
Over the last ten years, there has been an increased effort among researchers, scientists, manufacturers, and farmers to tackle the major problems of conventional tilling. Loss of soil quality and low effectiveness have long been issues that have plagued farmers and finding an optimum solution has been the focus of most tillage solution suppliers. To quote Larry Kuster of AGCO, “The need for high-quality seedbeds has become higher as drill and planter speeds rise with average producer acreage.”
In order to achieve this, manufacturers have been looking into ways to increase productivity while maintaining the quality of the seedbed. With methods such as precision tilling also gaining ground around the globe, suppliers have focused on equipment that’s more effective and adhere to the latest agricultural trends.
Here’s a look at three criteria that tilling machine manufacturers have focused on to keep up with modern tilling requirements.
Speed & Size: Most farmers seek equipment and components that help them increase tilling productivity without major consequences. That’s why manufacturers have tried to meet this requirement by manufacturing larger and faster disc blades. Companies now offer high-speed disc blades (up to 20” diameter)
capable of speeds of 10-14 miles/ hour. Available in both smooth and notched varieties, these blades are capable of delivering an even field finish in shorter time periods even in rocky and heavily rutted ground.
Variety: A range of equipment to be used for different purposes is also something most manufacturers have introduced in their catalogue. Alongside disc blades of varying diameters, companies have started manufacturing modern tilling machines varying from 8 to 45 feet. These give farmers the ability to choose implements depending on their ground depth requirements.
Automation: Automation has also seen an increasing presence in modern tillage solutions. New technologies such as GPS guidance and variable rate technology are specifically designed to give farmers a return on investment through real-time data and information.
One of the most monumental changes in agricultural automation is the introduction of the ISOBUS standard. More products being designed to this standard has increased the compatibility of products across brands. This has led to greater flexibility and freedom in the use of tilling equipment by farmers.
Other technologies that have been introduced in modern machines include disk gang control, shank depth and fore/aft leveling for greater agronomic control.
On the whole, the use of these techniques and technologies show an increased adoption of modern tilling methods by manufacturers and farmers. These solutions are essential for implementing a holistic approach towards soil health and vitality and creating a better and more efficient future.