For the soil to retain more water and to prevent soil erosion, summertime ploughing is crucial. Also, the procedure aids in eliminating weeds and pests from prior crops.
As you plough, you toss the earth and evenly distribute the land’s nutrients. Using equipment like a disc plough to plough both rain-fed and irrigated fields throughout the summer months will help you get a decent harvest. There is a possibility that you won’t be cultivating the deep layers if you don’t plough the field at the frequency layer.
How Does ploughing Work?
Opening the soil crust requires ploughing the land at a depth of 20 to 50 cm. The soil that is dispersed has higher nutrient, water, and air absorption. This facilitates the sowing of the seeds for improved germination. The seeds have greater nutrition and water absorption, which helps them develop into a high-yielding crop. The optimal time to start summer ploughing is in May, amid the pre-monsoon rains.
Also, the procedure aids in bridging soil clods or fissures that appear often after prolonged summer rains. The procedure aids in soil degradation for improved rainwater absorption and support of the planting process. If the green manure technique is used, the ploughing process can be enhanced.
The Benefits of ploughing in the Summer
The best yield may be obtained by ploughing throughout the summer for the following reasons.
- More effective Water Infiltration
The water retention & moisture level in the soil rises with summer ploughing. It penetrates the soil thoroughly and supplies the roots with excellent hydration.
2. better rainwater storage
Rainwater may penetrate the soil more easily thanks to ploughs. Moreover, air nitrate permeates the soil in addition to precipitation. As a result, the soil is better able to support the growth of crops with large yields.
3. strengthened soil structure
The soil has the chance to dry out and cool down with repeated ploughing every two to three days. Moreover, this enhances the general structure and soil profile.
4. improved soil aeration
ploughing enhances soil aeration. Microorganisms are helped to grow by soil aeration. These bacteria enrich the soil with nutrients or rich organic matter to improve plant germination and development.
5. minimises soil erosion
The method aids in reducing surface water runoff. This lessens soil erosion and its consequences. It also aids in replenishing the water table and supplying the soil with the necessary moisture.
6. Pest control measures
Pests from soil detritus will be helped to surface by tilling and tossing the land using ploughing equipment. Pests on the surface will become visible.
When Should You Avoid ploughing a Field?
The ideal months for field work are February and October through November. Cold days must be avoided since they freeze the ground and make soil cultivation challenging. Also, in such weather, your ploughing machine may become stuck and may find it challenging to alter its operation when using the ploughing and other equipment, such as combine harvester.
The land must be fertilised with manure and organic debris after being ploughed. Moreover, wait two months. Make sure your farm has the appropriate tractors for use in the fields. 2WD tractors have a power-to-weight ratio that makes it possible to cultivate any type of soil.