Cultivation Equipment
Flame weeders use propane torches to kill small weeds. Most effective on broadleaf seedlings before they develop true leaves. Multiple passes may be necessary for perennial weeds. Works well for organic no-till systems.
Tine weeders and harrows control small weeds through soil disturbance. Time operations when weeds are in the white thread stage - just germinated but not yet established. Harrow 1-3 times before crop emergence.
Mechanical Weeders
Wheel hoes and push cultivators work well for small-scale intensive production. Various attachments (stirrup hoes, wire weeders, cultivation sweeps) handle different crops and weed pressures.
Tractor-mounted cultivators save labor on larger operations. Finger weeders, basket weeders, and torsion weeders work close to crop rows, while sweeps handle inter-row cultivation. Adjust speed and depth for conditions.
Planting Equipment
Precision seeders plant exact spacing and depth, reducing seed costs and thinning labor. Choose models appropriate for seed size and planting method. Vacuum seeders handle tiny seeds; belt seeders work for larger seeds.
Transplant equipment ranges from simple dibbles for hand planting to water-wheel transplanters that inject water while setting plants. Mechanized transplanters dramatically increase planting speed for large operations.
Harvest and Handling
Harvest knives, shears, and clippers suited to specific crops reduce harvest time and hand fatigue. Ergonomic designs and sharp edges improve efficiency and quality.
Field bins, harvest carts, and wash stations streamline post-harvest processing. Invest in equipment that preserves product quality while reducing labor bottlenecks during peak harvest periods.
Maintenance and Storage
Regular maintenance extends equipment life and ensures reliability during critical operations. Clean tools after use, sharpen blades regularly, and store equipment protected from weather.
Winterize equipment before storage - change fluids, lubricate moving parts, and address any needed repairs during off-season when time is less constrained.