Reese Aitchison Seedmatic 40 D Series, Manual

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Here is a checklist that should be followed for any CT program (courtesy of Monsanto
NZ Ltd):
1. Check that the soil pH is around 6.0.
2. Check soil fertility levels for fertiliser requirement.
3. Ensure your spray boom has a marking system and is fully operational.
4. Establish optimum time for planting.
5. Check and control weeds present, before and during crop establishment.
6. Check and control insect and slug infestation before and during plant
establishment.
7. Ensure soil conditions are suitable for drilling.
8. Inspect the crop regularly after planting.
Experience has shown that farmers new to CT often have crop failures on the first
occasion, but as their skills and understanding of the technique improve, so do their
crop results.
TECHNIQUES AND TIMING FOR PASTURE RENOVATION
There are two basic techniques for pasture renovation, i.e. rejuvenation and renewal.
Rejuvenation is the most efficient technique and involves sowing the seeds of new
and virile pasture grasses and legumes direct into existing pasture and have them
gradually take over the old strain, without causing loss of production due to
cultivation. This technique is known as ‘stitching in’. Renewal involves a total
herbage control system, i.e. spray off old pasture with a wide spectrum herbicide
before drilling.
Local knowledge is invaluable when determining which techniques to use and when
to use them. The best time for pasture renovation will vary by region, and is largely
governed by the temperature and weather that follow. In temperate climates with
mild winters the autumn is best and tropical climates the spring is the best time when
the tropical grasses have not recovered from their winter dormancy. In arid climates
the time is directly before or after summer rains.
The basic requirement for seed germination is a warm moist seed bed. The aim
should be to sow the seed at a time when there is sufficient moisture for quick
germination, and little likelihood for later drought. The Aitchison opener/coulter
however will promote germination in much drier soils than any other known coulter
when used correctly.