STRAW & CHAFF SPREADING

Residue management is the first thing to consider in zero tillage. Whether you plan to seed a fall crop that same year, or a spring crop next year, it is essential the straw and chaff be spread evenly after harvest. The best time to deal with crop residue is during harvest. Modifications to existing straw and chaff spreaders can do the job. Commercially produced spreaders are also available. The attachment is not expensive but some time will be needed to install and adjust. Harrowing shortly after harvest is an option if uniform distribution isn't achieved with the spreader but the harrow will not spread chaff effectively. Without a good residue management program, the rest of the zero till system is very difficult.

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