What are the things you need to know about land preparation?
1. Consider environmental factors
2. Plow the cracks of your land
3. Flatten the ground for crop production
4. Manage the water distribution
5. Consider the cost and time
Land preparation is a critical component of farming operations as it establishes the foundation for optimal crop growth and development. Proper land preparation involves various techniques aimed at creating an optimal environment for seed germination and crop establishment. But first, let’s start with the basic things you need to know about land preparation.
This blog covers some things you need to know about preparing your land before the harvest. Keep reading to learn more!
Consider Environmental Factors
Before you start preparing your land, you have to take into account some environmental factors, such as the climate, topography, existing vegetation, and the presence of pests.
Climate
The average temperature, rainfall patterns, and wind patterns should be taken into account when planning land preparation. For example, areas that experience high wind may require windbreaks to protect crops.
Topography
The slope and elevation of the land can impact water drainage and erosion. Land preparation techniques may need to be adjusted to account for these factors and prevent soil loss.
Existing Vegetation
The type and density of existing vegetation on the land can impact the success of land preparation and planting. The removal of existing vegetation, such as weeds or brush, may be necessary before planting.
Presence of Pests
The presence of pests and diseases in the area can impact the success of crops. Land preparation techniques can help reduce the spread of these threats and improve crop health.
Plow The Cracks Of Your Land
Proper plowing is crucial in preparing your land for planting. It can be done by using a farm tractor to turn and break up the soil, bury crop residues, and control weeds for a successful planting season. This also helps to recycle the plant nutrients and allows decomposition effortlessly. When land is properly plowed, this avoids the soil from becoming acidic and lacking in nutrients.
Through plowing the cracks, the water is easily retained in the soil, which is beneficial to avoid recharging the water. This method is often done right after your harvesting period or at the onset of the rainy season to give your soil the moisture it needs.
We recommend preparing your land in 21 days. And, make sure the plowing is done once a week before leveling it.
Flatten The Ground For Crop Production
Properly flattening the ground is also important for crop production. It promotes uniform water distribution, reduces water usage, decreases weed growth, and enables control of pests, particularly the golden apple snails which can damage crops.
During this method, make sure that your field should have no noticeable mounds of soil above the water surface after the final leveling. We recommend you have 3-5 cm of water in the field using a plank to guarantee you a well-flattened land, which will guarantee you successful crop production.
Manage The Water Distribution
Effective management of water distribution for your land can enhance the efficiency of crop use of soil nutrients, reduce weed growth, simplify farm operations and systems, dissolve soil nutrients, and support temperature and field operations and soil biological processes.
Proper water management can also prevent stress on crops that can inhibit growth. Additionally, it is important to regularly clear dikes of weeds or grasses that attract pests. In case of damage, dikes should be promptly repaired by compacting and applying mud to prevent water loss through seepage.
Specifically, your dikes must be 15 cm x 20 cm to avoid rats burrowing your crop and have even water drainage and distribution. As a result, it allows organic matter to decompose naturally while helping your crops produce strong and deep roots.
Consider The Cost And Time
Preparing land can be a challenging, time-consuming, and expensive task, depending on the size and complexity of your land. It’s important to consider the cost of agricultural equipment you will need, such as tractors, plows, harrows, levelers, and other materials. Additionally, it’s important to plan for unexpected expenses that may arise during the process.
Lastly, it’s important to plan the schedule of preparing your land to make sure that it’s done well and at the right time of year for successful planting and harvesting of crops.
Key Takeaway
Preparing the land before planting is more than just digging or turning over the soil, as there are plenty of things you need to know about land preparation, and knowing them is the first step to guaranteeing you successful crop production.
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Get in touch with Ford Tractor today to learn more. You may also read our other blogs here about tips, safety measures, and more.
