Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
ten pulling two to several deep-ripping shanks. Ripping is more effective
with mechanical or mineral hardpans than with clay layers because the clay
particles tend to settle back into their original positions when the soils are
wet.
For new or replanted commercial orchards, growers commonly cross-rip
the fields before planting, first deep-ripping in one direction and then ripping
at right angles to the first plowed rows. Cross ripping before planting can
significantly reduce problems due to compacted soils and hardpans. A small
investment now often reaps large benefits later.
ROTOTILLERS AND HARDPANS
Rototillers are especially likely to create hardpans for two reasons:
1.
When used excessively, their stirring and chopping action des-
troys soil structure by breaking down large aggregates. This al-
lows soil particles to settle more densely, creating smaller and
fewer macropore spaces for water to drain through.
2.
The flat, horizontal tiller blades also pound on and compact the
soil at whatever depth you have set the tiller to be. This is espe-
cially likely on wet soils and on those with high clay percentages.
Mechanicaltillerswithverticaltinesthatstirthesoil,ratherlikeanegg-
beater, are less likely to create a tiller pan than tillers with traditional
flat,revolvingblades.Diskandplowbladesarelesslikelytodamagesoil
structurethantillers,buttheycancreatemechanicalcompactionwhen
used excessively. While rototillers, disks, and plows are useful farm im-
plements, use them carefully and sparingly.
