Every farmer wants the highest yields possible, and a swather may be the farm machine that helps you achieve this goal. The primary reason for swathing is to reduce the moisture in the grain, thereby reducing the potential for kernel contamination, especially under cool conditions. Swathing also helps speed the maturity of the grain. There is excellent equipment for successfully swathing wheat, barley, oats, and other crops. Discover the steps involved with swathing and how products like saddle tanks for track tractors make your job easier.
When to Begin Swathing: You want your grain to be hard but still able to be dented when you squeeze it with your thumb. It is an art to know when the correct time is. If you swath too early, the grain may be undeveloped, and strong winds could affect your grains if you swath too late. The moisture content should be below 35%, and avoiding swathing when the ground is wet after rainfall is better.
Cutting: You want your swath to sit on the stubble above the ground to allow for good air circulation. If rain occurs, this will also encourage more rapid drying.
Harvesting: The ideal time to harvest the crop is within ten days of swathing. The grain may sprout and become stained if it is subject to rain or moisture due to exposure over an extended period. You also want to avoid contamination from pests while it waits for combining.
Equipment that Makes Your Swathing More Manageable
A century ago, swathing was a labour-intensive occupation. Modern machinery has increased crop yields while reducing costs for the farmer. The following equipment offers you tools to enhance your productivity.
Swathing carts attach to the back of your swather and come with many options, such as various types of pumps. You’ll find spray and flush tanks, adjustable hitches, BANJO plumbing and filters as available attachments. Since there are many different-sized swathers, you can pick various equipment to suit your needs.
Saddle tanks are two tanks balanced on either side of your swather and include the frame to fit your specific swather. It can hold chemicals needed to dry the grains or water in extreme weather.
Swather front liquid kits work with your swathing cart or saddle tank, and the sizing depends on your specific needs and crops.
Swath rollers will compact your swath by pushing it down, thereby reducing crop loss and lessening the chance of wind scattering.
Overview of the Advantages of Swathing
Farming is a delicate balance between management techniques and environmental issues, and timing is everything since knowing when to harvest is key to successful crops. Many who utilise swathing see enormous benefits that include better grain production during inclement weather, an extended harvest period by 14 days in some cases, and reduced weeds in the crop. Whether you use saddle tanks for track tractors with your swather or enjoy pulling a cart behind your swather, farmers know that when they use efficient equipment, they get more productive yields.