What Is a Subsoiler?
A Subsoiler, also known as a subsoil plow, is a machine designed to break up the hardpan layer, called the plow pan, located beneath the cultivated soil in paddy fields or the compacted soil layer approximately 30cm below the surface.
It is also referred to as a subsoil fracture machine. The implementation of a subsoiler enhances the permeability of water into the soil, leading to improved soil structure with increased air content. This, in turn, enhances the oxygen supply to crops.
Regular subsoiling adjustments regulate soil moisture and oxygen levels, improving soil aeration and drainage. Subsoilers can be applied to address both excessively wet and dry conditions in paddy fields and fields.
While its effectiveness is realized through attachment to and towing by a tractor, the selection of subsoilers with features such as blades for increased effectiveness or those suitable for low-horsepower tractors is recommended based on the conditions of the paddy field or field.
Uses of Subsoiler
Subsoilers are employed when breaking up plow layers, including the plow pan and hardpan. Creating crucial furrows in the field enhances air circulation and water drainage. However, subsoiler application alone does not solve all soil-related issues. For maximum effectiveness, it is recommended to conduct subsoiling alongside the installation of subsurface drainage systems.
Subsoilers come in vibrating and non-vibrating types. Vibrating types can achieve deep cultivation even with low-horsepower tractors. Non-vibrating types require larger tractors with greater pulling power. Vibrating subsoilers can also be used in greenhouses.
Non-vibrating subsoilers need 20-70 horsepower tractors for cultivation at a depth of 40cm, depending on the number of knives. Subsoilers are valuable when there is a need to improve drainage, increase oxygen supply to crops, boost crop yield, or expand the variety of cultivable crops.
Features of Subsoiler
Advantages
- Improved drainage enhances water permeability.
- Improved soil structure facilitates easier oxygen delivery to crops.
- Increased oxygen supply and soil improvement contribute to higher crop yields.
- Enhanced soil conditions allow for the cultivation of a wider variety of crops.
- Once purchased, subsoilers can be used for an extended period.
Disadvantages
In addition to advantages, subsoilers have disadvantages. Being aware of the following points ensures optimal utilization:
- Less effective in fields where subsurface drainage has not been implemented.
- Subsoiler effectiveness is inferior to that of chisel plows and plow subsoilers.
- Adequate tractor horsepower is required for deep cultivation.
Types of Subsoilers
Subsoilers are classified based on the number of knives. The number of knives and cultivation depth are crucial factors influenced by the tractor’s horsepower.
As a general guideline, for cultivation at a depth of 40cm, a subsoiler with one knife requires approximately 20 horsepower, two knives require 30-40 horsepower, and three knives require 50-70 horsepower. Ideal horsepower varies based on factors such as field conditions, so it is recommended to verify with the manufacturer when making a purchase.
How to Choose a Subsoiler
To achieve the most efficient subsoiling, it is crucial to select a subsoiler based on the size of the field and the horsepower of the tractor owned. A higher number of knives leads to shorter working times, making it suitable for larger fields. However, if the tractor’s horsepower does not meet the criteria, a subsoiler with fewer knives should be used.
For fields without subsurface drainage, it is advisable to choose a subsoiler with an attachment called a bullet. The bullet attachment allows for the creation of a simple subsurface drainage system. The subsoiler’s effectiveness can be realized even in fields without established drainage systems.
How to Use a Subsoiler
For non-vibrating subsoilers that do not use PTO shaft power, the depth of knife insertion is adjusted, and the subsoiler is driven across the field with the knives in the soil. Vibrating subsoilers, which use PTO shaft power, require adjustments to the PTO, and excessive PTO power can lead to increased tractor load. Following the manual’s instructions is crucial.
When creating a bullet subsurface, start by digging a hole at the departure point. Insert the subsoiler with the bullet attached into the hole and drive the tractor across the field.
To maintain an optimal field, subsoiling should be performed regularly. It is common to conduct subsoiling once or twice a year, typically before planting or after harvest.