Development of Cultivation Equipment for Diversified Vegetable Production

Development of Cultivation Equipment for Diversified Vegetable Production

Summary

With variations in soil types and diversity of crops, weed control is one of the major obstacles facing vegetable producers in sustainable agriculture.

Objective: To improve quality and efficiency of mechanical weed control in diversified vegetable systems through adaptation of existing equipment.

Methods: In collaboration with a local blacksmith, a prototype will be built using a master toolbar with a spring-tine toolbar to create a unique cultivator with a guidance system, leveling bed and crust breaking capabilities.

Results: The project was extended for one year for further development of equipment. However, early testing was promising. Utilizing a 4-inch diamond rear mount master toolbar and 2¼-inch cultivator bars with cut-away discs followed by knives and Lely spring tines, the project coordinator was able to cultivate within 1½ inches of plants leaving a 3-inch untouched row band and mulched, weed-free centers.

North Central Region SARE 1998 Annual Report.