High-efficiency hay starts with well-regulated equipment. And while most producers take steps to make sure their balers and compact tractors are effectively winterized, not all operators perform the summer maintenance necessary to achieve a full season of reliable use.
Seed bed preparation plays such an important role in determining your crops’ yields that it warrants your full attention. This spring, it likely deserves a healthy dose of flexibility, too.
Timing is top of mind no matter the season. That’s especially true when it comes to getting your crop in the ground. Every day can give your crop a greater opportunity to reach its full yield potential.
Depending on the year, spring rains can bring needed moisture or frustrating delays. Regardless, rainy days provide time to catch up on maintenance and repairs. And that can reduce downtime when the sun shines.
If you want to ensure plants come out of the ground at the same time, it all starts when seeds go into the ground. That’s key to getting the most from high-powered hybrids and varieties. It’s important to plan your strategies.
Whether buying or selling, you know how valuable forages are these days. And it’s expected to stay that way. But no matter what the markets do, putting up the highest-quality hay remains the goal. New products and technology in the Case IH hay and forage lineup can help.
Soil compaction is one of those things that happens when you’re trying to get ahead. Instead, it can set your fields back for years. Consider the consequences before you try to gain a day or two this spring.
If you’re the check-the-box-and-move-on type, consider adjusting your ways — especially when it comes to agreements that involve your agronomic data. What you learn when you look close may surprise you. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwQ_7C01OO4 If you’re not clear about your precision-technology provider’s approach to data ownership, it’s time to ask some tough questions.
Hindsight is OK in farming. Questioning your hybrid or herbicide selection or your marketing strategy can lead to better decisions. But never put yourself in a position where you have to ask, “Why didn’t we devote more time to safety?” It’s too late. You need to recommit to farm safety today.
If you expect you’ll be up against some especially tough field conditions this spring, consider a new tillage tool or an upgrade to an existing one. But make sure you get the right one for the job.
If you want to see the growing season in a different light, make the switch to LED lights on all of your equipment. The move can save you time, expense, hassle and even a little personal wear and tear.
