disc vs spring tooth harrow on plowed land

[CDN Farm Boy]

rototillers do a nice job as well but are harder on the soil,

Could you explain?

 

[davethegundoctor]

I plow first with my Ford 101 - then use my JD 681 Roto-Tiller. When I am done we take a cultipacter next. Just a great job.
David Pidgeon
New Haven, Vermont

 

[tessiers]

Rototillers work the soil excessively, causing it to break down into smaller pieces. Through wet dry cycles rototilled soil will compact much faster and harder than plowed and harrowed soil. The result is the need to work the soil more starting the process over. This is OK for a garden spot, because you rototill twice a year anyway. It also disrupts the microb's and bacteria in the soil. Plowing and harrowing works the soil less and is not as harsh, although no till is the best option for the soil. There is a lot of good info out there on the subject, I am by no means an expert.

 

[D7E]

Rototillers work the soil excessively, causing it to break down into smaller pieces. Through wet dry cycles rototilled soil will compact much faster and harder than plowed and harrowed soil. The result is the need to work the soil more starting the process over. This is OK for a garden spot, because you rototill twice a year anyway. It also disrupts the microb's and bacteria in the soil. Plowing and harrowing works the soil less and is not as harsh, although no till is the best option for the soil. There is a lot of good info out there on the subject, I am by no means an expert.

It also makes soil wetter soil as overworked soil will not tolerate as much rain . Ocasional use realy is'nt going to make a difference though .

 

[D7E]

We try to work as little as possible in spring to avoid compacted wheel tracks and bringing up nasty lumps of clay . Chisel plough 4-6 inches deep twice in the fall in two directions then once over in spring with a tine harrow to warm and dry the soil whilst incorporating fertilizer ahead of the planter .