Other Points

One of the most noticeable differences in farmer's perceptions is that of pressing. Farmers on lighter soils generally consider a roller or light press to be "heavy", whereas farmers on heavier soils use heavier equipment for pressing. To get the most out of the Moore Unidrill a heavy or triple press will be a valuable asset.

Some manufacturers claim that their machines are a one pass under all conditions. However in practice this is often restricted to those few ideal times when conditions are "perfect", and in practice some form of cultivation of the seedbed is normally necessary prior to drilling. These drills can be immensely "power hungry" we have talked about cultivating with skill and not with horse power, why now use horse power to drill?

There is always a lot of "talk" about weight per disc when direct drilling is discussed, there are very few independent tests to support these claims. When a drill uses two sets of discs, one to till the area and one following, how is the function calculated? Some of these tremendous weights are certainly impressive, but can the drill structure stand up to the stress over time? If the soil is fit to direct drill (in good heart) and these conditions are conductive for a successful crop, how much coulter or disc pressure is sufficient? Twenty-five years of drilling has proven that the Moore Unidrill has what it takes and can place over 200kg per coulter if necessary!

Management is perhaps the most important factor when direct drilling or minimum tillage is considered. Think the whole system through, do a number of farm trials and investigate the conditions, before and after drilling and again before and after combining, take notes (you can't trust your memory) which will pay dividend in years to come. This is not a "quick fix" the benefits are not just for one year or while times are tight, as the system is fitted into your farming programme everything will come easier, more benefits accrue and you will enjoy the process of getting there.

Spraying is a critical part of the "new system" timing of spraying and effective application is extremely important, it can be the difference between success and failure. Make sure your sprayer is fit to do the job.

Not every combine is capable of chopping and spreading a crop of heavy straw; good residue management is another very important factor in successful future crops. Preparation before the combine goes into work will pay dividends and reduce residue stress.