Planting season has finally arrived for Clay County farmers. The planting process for corn and soybeans requires extensive planning preparation way before the spring warm weather conditions arrive. Every farming operation is different but most of the spring work is the same. Planting preparation sets the foundation for the growing season.
The equipment and a brief description used for pre-planting and planting of the crops are as follows. A strip till machine helping to prepare the field for planting corn. This machine tills a six to teninch- wide strip in the ground. It mixes and loosens the soil in a narrow section of soil and leaves the ground on either side undisturbed.
The planter cuts a narrow furrow for the corn or soybean seeds into the ground. The seeds in the furrow have precise spacing and the depth programmed into the planter. The furrow is closed, and the seeds are then into the ground. Sometimes the planters can apply fertilizers at the same time.
Tractors are an essential piece of equipment. It is vital to keep the tractor well supported to continue reliable service required in the field.
A flatbed trailer is used to haul supplies including seeds and fertilizers to the field for easy access.
Record keeping can be a simple notebook to spreadsheets. The information collected is of planting dates, fertilizer applications, and other relevant information.
Corn planting can start around April 8 and continues through end of May. Soybean planting starting around April 8 and can continue until June 15. Weather conditions can be a deciding factor on start and completion dates.
