Cultivator points

Let your soil determine your point

To maximise the space available for roots, careful consideration of soil type is essential when selecting points for your cultivator. While heavy soils can rely on their natural structure, lighter, self-compacting soils require complete loosening to create optimal conditions for the next crop.

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Heavy soils with structure

For heavy soils, breaking compaction layers and creating a fine, crumbled surface is crucial. If the structure and residue levels allow, a thinner point is effective for maintaining the soil's integrity. In wet years, always opt for a thinner point to minimise negative impacts on the soil structure.

Self-compacting soils

During the growing season, self-compacting soils tend to collapse, reducing the space available for root nutrient and moisture uptake. Wider points are ideal for these soils, delivering complete loosening, thorough mixing, and improved aeration of the soil profile.

Breaking up compaction

Soil compaction restricts root growth and negatively impacts crop development. The approach to breaking up compaction depends on its location within the soil profile, as each layer presents unique challenges and opportunities.

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Shallow compaction

Shallow compaction must be completely broken up to ensure roots can access the nutrients concentrated in the topsoil. Failure to address this can significantly limit growth. For shallow layers, the focus should be on creating a fine tilth throughout to optimise seedbed preparation and plant establishment.

Medium-depth compaction

Medium-depth compaction, such as a disc pan at approximately 20 cm depth, can often be treated with a 50/50 approach. Half of the compaction is broken up during the first pass, while any remaining issues can be addressed the following year by cultivating at an opposite angle. This phased approach helps minimise soil disturbance and ensures consistent results.

Deep compaction

Deep compaction, found below 25 cm, requires a different strategy. Breaking compaction at this level should prioritise repairing drainage, capillarity, and root access to water, as nutrient availability is lower at these depths. Wider tine spacing is recommended to preserve soil structure and reduce unnecessary fuel consumption. Using narrower tine spacing at such depths can harm the soil's load-bearing capacity and increase the risk of further damage.

Important note: These operations should only be performed in medium-dry to dry conditions to prevent the formation of sidewall compaction, which can exacerbate drainage and structural issues.