Tillage Innovation Profiles

 

Jim & Dave Smith, Gowanlea Ltd., Sunderland, Region of Durham
Soil Type: Clay loam | Farm Operation: Corn, soybeans and wheat since 2004
Years in Operation of Coulter Harrow:

Tillage/Cropping System

System: Coulter Harrow
Fall Tillage: none
Spring Tillage: twice over with RTS

Planter Make, Model and Description
  • 24 row 1770 John Deere with Yetter trash whippers & liquid fertilizer tank
Tillage/Coulter Dimensions:

Fertilizer System:
Liquid In furrow: liquid starter 6-24-6
Broadcast: none
Dry Banded: none
Additional Nitrogen on Planter: none
Sidedress N: none

Producer's Comments

Pros

Cons
  • Fast soil preparation in spring.
  • RTS only should help build organic matter.
  • Less work in fall
  • Less fuel used when compared to cultivating (RTS pulls easier).
  • Does not disturb soil profile under 2.5 inches.
  • Fewer stones to pick.
  • RTS will not repair rutted fields