For agricultural production to improve soil structure and boost crop yields, chain harrow and drag chain harrow usage must be done appropriately. By leveling the ground and loosening the soil, these two instruments can enhance soil quality and establish favorable growing conditions for crops. In this article, LandTopMall will explain in detail how to use these two chain harrows and share some practical tips.
The Function of Chain Harrow and Drag Chain Harrow
A flexible farming instrument ideal for superficial ground preparation is the chain harrow. Increased air and water permeability as well as a looser soil surface are possible benefits. However, organic waste like compost and fertilizers can be distributed with the use of chain rakes. Additionally, by keeping surface weeds under control, chain harrows keep crops from competing with them for light and nutrients.
A drag chain harrow is a specific type of chain harrow that is typically used on larger areas of farmland. It can cover a wider area by being dragged and is suitable for raking and handling large pieces of soil. Compared with ordinary chain harrows, the tillage effect of drag chain harrows is more significant, especially when deeper treatment is required.
How to Use Chain Harrows and Drag Chain Harrows Correctly?
Choose the Right Tool
Choose the appropriate chain harrow or drag chain harrow according to the size of the farmland and the needs of the crops. If the farmland is small, a standard chain harrow will suffice. If you need to treat a large area of farmland or carry out deep plowing, a drag chain harrow is more suitable.
Adjust Rake Depth
With a chain rake, you may modify the drag angle to regulate the rake's depth. While deeper harrowing depths are better for strengthening soil structure and loosening soil, shallower harrowing depths are better for leveling the soil. With a drag chain harrow, the raking depth is usually deeper and is suitable for handling harder or compact soils.
Control Drag Speed
Drag speed has a significant impact on farming outcomes when utilizing chain harrows and drag chain harrows. Generally speaking, for optimal farming outcomes, a pace of 6 to 8 km/h may provide good tool-ground contact.
Cross Harrowing
For best results, use a cross-harrow method. After the first rake, rake again in a vertical direction. This ensures a more even soil treatment and is conducive to crop root development.
Practical Tips for Using Chain Harrows and Drag Chain Harrows
Soil Moisture Control
The soil needs to have the right amount of moisture before raking. Soil that is too dry is difficult to loosen, while soil that is too wet is prone to sticking, affecting the harrowing effect.
Use in Combination with Other Farm Tools
You can utilize chain harrows and drag chain harrows with rotary tillers and plows, among other farm equipment. The overall efficiency of soil treatment is increased when a chain harrow is used for surface treatment and a plow is used for deep tillage.
Regular Maintenance Tools
Before and after each use, all components of chain harrows and drag chain harrows should be checked for integrity. If the chain is loose or worn, perform maintenance in time to ensure the normal use of the tool.
Chain harrows and drag chain harrows are indispensable tools in farm management. With proper use and proper maintenance, farmers can improve soil quality and increase crop yields.
