Strip-Till technology, used for sowing rapeseed, gives excellent results both in dry years and in wet conditions. More than one of our of rural farms has spoken out, why this sowing technology is particularly practical to use. We will provide several answers that may arise for those who are interested in Strip-Till rapeseed sowing technology.
What is the best sowing depth?
The recommended seeding depth for rapeseed using Strip-Till technology is usually 3–4 cm. This seeding depth ensures a greater moisture reserve, especially in dry years.
Strip tillage is the ideal soil tillage. Small clods are formed above the seed bed, and rapeseed germinates quickly and evenly. Rapid germination is also ensured by the fact that, when using strip tillage, the moist soil is brought to the surface and the seeds are immediately sown in the moist soil. Based on our experience, the recommended sowing density is 30–50 plants/1 m2. However, the current trend is to sow at a higher density of 60–80 plants/1 m2. This should increase the yield in certain conditions and years.
When sowing with Farmet Strip seed drills, the row spacing is 25 cm, so the aforementioned higher density can be easily achieved, ensuring good plant establishment in the row.
What is the best tillage depth?
The maximum depth of strip cultivation when sowing with Falcon Strip seed drills is about 20 cm. Practice shows that it is not always necessary to cultivate to this maximum depth, it is possible to work at a much shallower depth. The study showed that the greatest influence on root development is not only soil cultivation, but, above all, a higher nitrogen concentration in the root zone.
When the roots penetrate such a layer, the growth in depth slows down, the roots begin to branch strongly. If we want to suppress this effect, which very often occurs when stubble is cultivated shallowly and after rain the nitrogen concentration increases between the cultivated and uncultivated soil layer, we must cultivate the soil in strips at least 5 cm deeper than the previous stubble shaving depth.
When stubble is cultivated shallowly, at a depth of 8 cm, the strip cultivation for sowing should be 13 cm. This depth is also sufficient if, during strip cultivation, fertilizers with very little or no nitrogen are applied to the root zone (e.g., ammophos or P, K mixtures, etc.). However, if fertilizers with a higher nitrogen content are applied, the soil must be cultivated deeper.
The depth of cultivation must also be chosen taking into account the possible formation of clods. It should be noted that when working with very narrow coulters (only 25 cm), clods are formed to a minimum, even when loosening deeply.
How much fertilizer is needed when sowing in row strips?
Fertilizers and their amount must be carefully selected, taking into account the nutrients accumulated in the soil and based on an overall nutritional strategy. In any case, complex fertilizers, such as NPK, Ammophos, P, K mixtures or mixtures of other chemical elements (Mg, S), are considered favorable. The amount of fertilizer varies from 100 to 300 kg/ha, with a normal amount of 100 to 150 kg/ha. This is important from a logistical point of view and due to the frequency of filling the seed box.
Does it make sense to sow rapeseed using Strip-Till technology and not apply fertilizer?
Of course! As already mentioned, soil loosening alone has a significant impact on fast and even germination and long root formation. For this reason, it is recommended to use Strip-Till technology when sowing rapeseed even without fertilizer. Falcon seed drills with a single-chamber seed box without fertilizer can be equipped with a tine cultivation section for Strip-Till sowing.
What to do if it is very dry during sowing?
Strip-Till technology is especially effective in dry years. As we have already mentioned, small clods retain moisture, and during sowing, using strip tillage technology, moist soil is brought to the surface. This greatly improves seed germination and germination uniformity. Another advantage of sowing with Falcon Strip seed drills is that it is possible to work without a rear harrow.
The seed row is formed in the furrow of the cultivated strips, so the seeds are close to the moist soil, which is better protected from evaporation and drying out. This effect is further enhanced if there is a significant amount of chopped straw on the surface. The crops grow evenly, the need for agronomic care is reduced, and fertilization becomes more effective. However, it should be noted that if plant waste is left on the soil surface, protective measures must be taken to destroy slugs.
And if, on the contrary, there is a lot of precipitation?
Strip-Till rapeseed sowing technology has a positive effect on seed germination, especially in wet sowing seasons. Falcon Strip seeders are equipped with a cultivation section with very narrow tines (only 25 cm), which prevents the formation of clods in wet conditions. Strip cultivation perfectly aerates the soil during sowing, which results in more soil air in the soil. This is an ideal microclimate for rapeseed, as it requires more soil air compared to other agricultural crops. Crops sown using Strip-Till technology are healthier and stronger.
Based on experience and research, Strip-Till rapeseed sowing technology is particularly proves itself when sowing in extreme conditions – during dry or extremely wet sowing periods, and also significantly increases the yield and its annual stability.
If you would like to try Strip-Till technology on your farm, you can do so in several ways:
– If you are sowing winter rapeseed, the first and easiest thing is to order a strip-till sowing service, which is carried out by our agro-services department. We arrive with reliable Strip-till seeders, our own tractors, which are driven by experienced operators. You will only need to take care of the seeds and fertilizers – we will do all the rest.
To order this service, please contact us by phone. +370 620 37851 or by email services@agroteka.lt
– The second option – we can offer for rent the Farmet Falcon Pro seeder with Strip-Till cultivation section, which is loved by Lithuanian farmers. You can rent the seeder for the required period and sow the fields with high quality. You can learn more about this seeder model by clicking on this link or below.
