Zero till planters in the Condamine till book 13-5-09.pdf · There are a lot of smart and innovative farmers out there who have faced the challenge. I hope their ... Zero till planters

Zero till planters in the Condamine

By Peter Crawford

Austil Equipment

Proudly Australian owned and built

With seasons becoming drier there is a big push towards zero till. The Austil MT2500 single disc opener is helping farmers conserve what moisture they have. The disc opener is designed for low soil disturbance and can cut through the heaviest of trash. The angle of the disc allows it to penetrate into hard soil with good results. The simple design of the unit allows for easy use and maintenance. With the press wheel independent to the main frame it

allows the disc to remain at an accurate depth in uneven soils. There are many Austil machines out in the field with farmers and contractors getting great results.

Austil Equipment

Further enquires contact Chester or Brett Kucks

Ph: 07 4692 1282 Fax: 07 4692 1295

Email: [email protected] www.austil.com.au

MT 2500 Specifications

Weight 100 kg Press-wheel 38 cm Disc Thickness 6 mm Disc Diameter 51 cm The units can be fitted to 4”, 6”, 7” and 8” bars. Bars made to order in linkage and trailing and combine conversions.


Case studies of innovative and progressive farmers improving their farming systems

to achieve greater productivity and sustainability

Peter Crawford North East Downs Landcare Group Inc. Oakey

October 2004

Acknowledgements This book has been made possible by funding from the National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality, through the Condamine Alliance. We would like to acknowledge the assistance given by the Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries and Queensland Department of Natural Resources and Mines. Material used in the introductory section has been sourced from publications and research results from these organisations. We would especially like to thank the farmers who have willingly provided the information and details for the planters used in the case studies. Without their cooperation this project would not have been possible. Thanks to Nikki Webb (North East Downs Landcare), George Lambert (Condamine Alliance) and Susan Cullinan (Condamine Alliance) for editing, formatting and good ideas. Thanks to the organisations who have contributed financially to this book – North East Downs Landcare Group Inc. Garnelle Industries Pty. Ltd. Austil Equipment Pty. Ltd. Janke (Australia) Gyral Implements Pty. Ltd. Excel Agriculture

Printed by Greenridge Press 4 Freighter Avenue Toowoomba 4350 Phone 4659 1444

© The Condamine Alliance 2004

Table of contents Foreword ..............................................................................................................................................1

Introduction..........................................................................................................................................2

Section 1 – Basic zero till principles and research...............................................................................3

Changing to zero till – it needn’t be too difficult.....................................................................3

Zero till research ......................................................................................................................7

Section 2 – Zero till conversions using chisel ploughs and scarifiers or similar machinery ...............9

Damian McInnerney, Moola – John Deere chisel plough .......................................................9

The Town family, Kaimkillenbun – John Deere chisel plough .............................................11

John and Brett Stockwell, Squaretop – Napier scarifier ........................................................13

Terry Leerentveld, Oakey – Napier scarifier .........................................................................15

Colin and Alan Bell, Pilton – planter built from scratch .......................................................17

Section 3 – Zero till conversions using conventional combines/seeders ...........................................19

Mark Genrich, Haden – International combine .....................................................................19

Des and Stephen Kajewski, Peranga - International combine ...............................................21

Ross Garratt, Linthorpe – Massey Ferguson combine...........................................................23

Royce Jensen, Quinalow – Case-Napier combine .................................................................25

Mike Kucks, Maclagan – International combine ...................................................................27

Col Purcell, Brymaroo – International combine ....................................................................29

Barry Reimers, Quinalow – Shearer Wideseeder ..................................................................31

Earl Perina, Brymaroo – International combine ....................................................................33

Peter Halford, Mt. Tyson – International combine ................................................................35

Section 4 – Zero till conversions using three-point linkage toolbars.................................................37

Ken Burton, Brymaroo – International row-crop planter ......................................................37

Bob Comben, Kaimkillenbun – Janke row-crop planter........................................................39

Harold Kowitz, Aubigny – modified cotton planter ..............................................................41

Section 5 – Taking it to another level – controlled traffic .................................................................43

David and Robbie Curtis, Millmerran – Gessner frame, Austil single-disc openers.............43

The Town Family, Kaimkillenbun – Gray disc planter units on three-point linkage bar ......45

Section 6 – Landcare groups involved in zero till .............................................................................47

South Myall Creek Catchment Landcare Group....................................................................47

Clifton Landcare Group .........................................................................................................47

Condamine Headwaters Landcare Group ..............................................................................47

Further reading...................................................................................................................................48


© The Condamine Alliance 2004 1

Foreword

As Chair of the Condamine Alliance, I am very pleased to support this publication. Sustainable farming practice is crucial if we are to better manage our soil and water resources, and the Alliance has recognised the importance of reduced till as being integral in a sustainable farming system.

The Condamine Alliance has been established as the Regional Natural Resource Management (NRM) Body for the Condamine catchment. Our role is to facilitate future NRM investment in the catchment through an investment strategy that is being developed via a consultative process with all stakeholder groups in the catchment. We seek to invest in activities that will assist the community change practices in order to better conserve the natural resource assets we all depend on. Agricultural activity in the catchment is made up of extensive and intensive cropping, grazing and intensive animal industries. The way in which the land is utilised is a key factor in achieving whole of catchment natural resource outcomes and meeting the aspirations of the Plan.

Many grain producers on the Condamine floodplains have adopted a zero, or at least a minimum till farming system over the past ten years or so. However, there are still gaps, and this is even more apparent in the upland areas to the north and east of the Condamine River floodplain. For a range of reasons, reduced till systems have not been embraced wholeheartedly by farmers in the uplands.

Many people believe that it is too difficult or expensive adopt a reduced till system on a mixed farming operation, and I believe that publications such as this will go a long way towards changing this perception. Being able to see and understand what your fellow farmer is doing, encourages farmers to change. Not only can improved soil management lead to better environmental outcomes, it also provides improved productivity.

There are many innovative and resourceful farmers in the Condamine who have adopted the principle of minimum till showing clear benefits and for modest cost. This is indicated by the case studies in this publication. I thoroughly recommend this publication to any farmer who is considering options for changing their farming systems.

Dick Browne

Chair

Condamine Alliance October 2004



Introduction

So you’re thinking of switching to zero till as your main farming system. You’ve heard the arguments – zero till reduces soil erosion, improves moisture conservation, reduces fuel use, wear and tear on machinery, and best of all, you’ll spend less hours sitting on a tractor!

But like most people, you’ve struck the problem of what type of planter to go for. Tines or disc openers? What type of tines? Parallelograms or rigid frame? Single disc or double disc? Which brand? Although by no means exhaustive, there’s a good range of options described in this book.

There are a lot of smart and innovative farmers out there who have faced the challenge. I hope their experience gives you some good ideas and encourages you to have a go. Hopefully this book will be a guide for you as you navigate your way through the issues ahead.

This book was compiled and written towards the end of the winter of 2004. It was an appalling season on the Darling Downs, but despite this, some very handy wheat and barley crops were produced. It’s a matter of record that most of these crops were planted under a minimum or zero till system.

Peter Crawford

North East Downs Landcare

October 2004



Section 1 – Basic zero till principles and research

Changing to zero till – it needn’t be too difficult Adapted from the Queensland DPI&F publication Different implements for a different seedbed (Jim Greenaway, 1997)

Why the need for conservation farming? Much of the rainfall is lost in evaporation (60%) and runoff (10%) leaving only about 30% for growing a crop. To reduce the losses and grow better and more profitable crops, conservation farming techniques have evolved.

What is the key to conservation farming? The key to a successful conservation farming system is maintenance of a protective layer on the soil surface, either as a growing crop or pasture, or the residue (stubble) from a previous crop. To achieve this soil surface condition, primary and secondary till operations are reduced to a minimum or eliminated. This leaves the planting operation as the only necessary soil disturbance between crops.

What are the benefits of conservation farming? The protective layer on the soil surface and the lack of soil disturbance can –

1. Greatly improve rainfall infiltration into the soil

2. Dramatically reduce soil loss through erosion

Other spin-offs include lower machinery operating costs, better timing of planting and the chance for opportunity cropping.

Why the need for different machinery? The challenge is satisfactory plant establishment in a seedbed with minimal preparation. In conventional farming the purpose of secondary till is to produce a fine, level, weed-free seedbed for the next crop. It is necessary to change from conventional planting machinery (well suited to the fine seedbed) and develop a machine which will create its own seedbed under more difficult conditions.

Prerequisites for minimum till planting Preparation for planting a crop into old stubble begins at the previous harvest. The height of cutting at harvest and the length of straw could affect the following planting operation. As a general rule cut the crop shorter than usual. The trash trail at the back of the harvester will be a major problem at planting if it is not spread effectively or removed from the paddock. An effective straw shredder or spreader is an essential attachment on a harvester. Alternatively round baling the trash trail from a winter cereal crop may be a useful option.

Heavy equipment Avoid heavy equipment on the field at harvest as much as possible. Not only will wheel tracks be a problem for depth control at planting, the compaction effect of haul-out bins and trucks can be serious.



Standing stubble Standing stubble is easier to handle through a planter than slashed straw. While a slashed paddock may look neater, it is an expensive operation with unnecessary soil compaction and can create problems with trash handling.

Weed control in fallow Fallow weed control is essential, and herbicide usage or grazing animals are the only alternatives in the absence of cultivation. An effective boom spray is an important machine. It is important to research topics such as the most efficient use of herbicides, drift problems and susceptible crops, plant-back times, and the appropriate herbicides.

Converting chisel plough, combine or scarifier Farmers looking to get started in minimum till planting could consider using some of their existing equipment with suitable conversion to cope with seedbed preparation as described above. The advantages of chisel plough, scarifier or combine conversion are –

relatively inexpensive to convert implement is already available on

most farms The main disadvantage of a strengthened planting implement is the inability of the strong tines to follow small irregularities in the field (wheel tracks, small depressions and ridges) so planting depth may not be as accurate as desired. Chisel plough conversion The chisel plough conversion represents a relatively inexpensive option for trialing the concepts of minimum till planting. The main requirements for conversion are –

a suitable seed and fertiliser distributor box

replacement of tine points with adaptors

spear points (or similar) and seed tubes

press wheels. The main advantages of chisel plough conversion are that it has sufficient tine breakout pressure for zero till planting, and the chisel plough can be quickly reverted to original use (removing press wheels and replacing tine points). The main disadvantage of a chisel plough as a planting implement lies in the inability of the strong tines to follow small irregularities in the field (wheel tracks, small depressions and ridges) so planting depth may not be as accurate as desired. Combine conversion The main requirements for a combine conversion are –

replacing the tine assembly with more robust ground tools to cope with trash handling and harder soils

narrow furrow openers press wheels

It is normal to discard the cultivating tines to improve trash flow. Scarifier conversion A scarifier conversion may involve a combination of both the chisel plough and combine conversions by using a seed/fertiliser distributor, strengthening of tine assemblies, changing to narrow adaptors and points, seed tubes and press wheels.

Modifying for minimum till planting Tine breakout Most chisel plough tines have adequate tine breakout (the pressure required to cause the tine to trip). It is usually in the region of 2 kN (440 lbf) to 2.5 kN (550 lbf). Replacement tines for combines should be at least 1.5 kN



(330 lbf). Stronger tines would be required on machines designed for deep planting where a hard dry surface needs to be busted to find planting moisture. Trash handling capability Chisel ploughs have an appropriate combination of sufficient rows of tines spaced at least 90 cm apart and tines spaced at least 90 cm apart on each row, as well as 70 cm underframe clearance. By removing the cultivating tines on scarifiers and combines, then spacing the planting tines on three ranks and the tines 90-105 cm on each rank, most trash will pass through even though the underframe clearance might be restricted to 60 cm. Row spacing of 30 cm to 35 cm (12-14 inches) is the aim. Trash blockages are more likely to be a problem where ground wheels are close to tines, or other added obstructions like in-frame press wheels or coulters impede smooth flow. Depth control Positive depth control of the machine frame in the form of mechanical depth stops or a hydraulic stop is essential. The length and width of the frame will affect depth of seed placement. Flexible frames with sectional widths less than 3 metres will assist as will tandem walking wheels with as large a wheel diameter as possible. To overcome the problem of high breakout tines driving too deep through small hills in the seed bed, some form of scraper on the tine may be useful. Flat-on chisel tines have some advantage by displacing some soil. Press wheels Press wheels can be mounted in frame, attached to the tine or along a bar at the rear of the machine either individually or in gangs. There are a number of advantages in having the press wheels mounted in-frame, i.e. either as separate assemblies adjacent to the tine mounting (preferred) or attached to the tine itself. By having the press wheel close to the planting tine, a minimum amount of soil is allowed to flow over the seed before it is

pressed. This has been shown to give better emergence of seedlings. Better control of press wheel pressure and better balance of the machine (less forward weight transfer) are also possible. The tine mounted press wheel assembly also has the advantage of being close to the tine, but in high breakout situations such as deep planting the press wheel tends to lose its pressure as the tine breaks back. Having the press wheels in-frame does have the disadvantage of cluttering up the spaces between tines and ground wheels sometimes hindering trash flow. Press wheels in a row at the back of the machine are better than none at all. As a guide, a press wheel being used in a zero till planting situation in a clay soil will require about 15 kg per cm of press wheel width to adequately close the trench. For the easier flowing red soils this figure could be reduced to 10 kg per cm. Where full cultivation has produced a fine seedbed, half these weights may be sufficient. Match the press wheel and the planting point There is no advantage in choosing a narrow tine point if it is followed by a wide press wheel, particularly in a zero till situation. The press wheel will ride on the shoulders of the furrow just created, and not press the seed in the bottom of the trench. Most spear points disturb a band approximately 50 mm wide so a 50 mm press wheel would be the most appropriate. A single rib tyre may be satisfactory in softer soils or pre-cultivated seedbeds. The wider (100 mm) press wheels commonly seen on conventional till planters need to have a 100mm band of disturbed soil to press properly, and also require more weight to compensate for the width of the tyre. Narrow (18 mm) points and 25 mm high pressure press wheels are becoming the favoured option for heavy clay soils. Tine shape Tines are either curved or straight, and edge-on or flat. There appears to be only minor differences in performance between



the various combinations of these shapes. The spear point adaptors fitted to the tines are more important. As a general rule the narrower the adaptor is, the less the soil disturbance. Flat tines have a slight advantage when moving excess soil from high spots in the field. Some form of scraper needs to be fitted to edge-on tines to achieve the same result. Selection of points and adaptors There is a wide array of points and adaptors on the market. The choice depends on factors such as soil type and amount of disturbance desired. For most clay soils the narrowest trench with minimum disturbance followed by narrow press wheels appears to be giving consistent results, particularly with narrow

rows (300 mm) where too much disturbance of the soil will throw soil into adjacent rows. Tungsten tipped points will justify the additional expense in abrasive soils and also maintain better shape even in low wear situations. Coulters Strategically placed coulters can be used in front of the planting tine to cut through vine-like material or long stubble which may cause blockages adjacent to depth wheels or press wheels. In heavy clay or cloddy soils, coulters in front of tines may reduce the size of clods particularly if there is a dry surface crust. Sticky soils can be a problem for coulters. This is often because the coulters are set too deep.

Figure 1 – QDPI&F trial bar – testing and demonstrating a range of components



Zero till research

Zero till: Better soil water storage and wheat yield at Hermitage Report by Greg Thomas, Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Toowoomba and Bob Amos, formerly Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, Hermitage Research Station Key points from long-term fallow trial at Hermitage

Zero till combined with stubble retention has generally provided more stored water in the soil profile at planting than mechanical till;

Zero till reduces runoff and soil erosion and results in improved water infiltration and storage in the soil;

Zero till and stubble retention resulted in improved wheat yield by better soil water storage and use, particularly in drier seasons;

Best yields over 32-year duration of the trial have come from combination of zero till, stubble retention and nitrogen fertiliser application. This resulted in another 0.8 t/ha per year compared with other treatment combinations.

The benefit of zero till and stubble retention was demonstrated in the long-term Fallow Management Trial at Hermitage Research Station near Warwick in 2000. Grain yield with zero till and stubble retention was an average 25% higher than other treatments. Available soil water at sowing using zero till and retaining stubble was 50 mm higher than using mechanical till with stubble retention, and where stubble was burnt. Baxter wheat was sown in the trial on 27 June 2000. Despite the dry season, there were also quite large responses to nitrogen fertiliser application in 2000. Under zero till with stubble retention, grain yield increased from

1.07 tonnes per hectare (t/ha) with no nitrogen fertiliser to 1.88 t/ha with 150 kg/ha urea. Under mechanical till with stubble retention, grain yield increased from 0.8 t/ha with no nitrogen fertiliser to 1.48 t/ha with 150 kg/ha urea. The combination of zero till, stubble retention and nitrogen fertiliser application of 150 kg/ha urea therefore resulted in the highest yield in the trial in 2000. See figure 2. The results confirm previous findings in this long-term trial on the benefits of zero till and stubble retention in improving wheat yield by better soil water storage and use, particularly in drier seasons. Best yields over the 32-year duration of the trial have come from the combination of zero till, stubble retention and nitrogen fertiliser application. This combination has resulted in another 0.8 t/ha per year compared with other treatment combinations. Zero till combined with stubble retention has generally provided more stored water in the soil profile at planting than mechanical till. Zero till reduces runoff and soil erosion and results in improved water infiltration and storage in the soil. Mechanical till disrupts the structure of the surface soil, reducing the passages for water entry. Higher soil organic matter levels have also been recorded under zero till than under mechanical till. Greater water infiltration under zero till has also been found to result in less nitrate and salt in the soil profile than under mechanical till.



Figure 2 – Hermitage fallow trial 2000

Acknowledgment The long-term Fallow Management Trial at Hermitage Research Station near Warwick was initiated by Jack Littler and John Marley in 1968 and is still delivering useful results for grain growers after more than 30 years. For further information, contact: Greg Thomas, NR&M Senior Agronomist, Toowoomba on 07 46 881324.

Figure 3 – emerging zero till wheat crop at Quinalow



Section 2 – Zero till conversions using chisel ploughs and scarifiers or similar machinery

Damian McInnerney, Moola – John Deere chisel plough General information The McInnerney family use a minimum till system to grow a range of crops including wheat, barley, millet, sorghum and chick peas in the Moola district to the west of Quinalow. They changed to a minimum till system to reduce erosion, improve infiltration, increase cropping frequency (opportunity cropping), and to take a holiday from ploughing. Damian and wife Leah run 100 head of cattle in conjunction with their cropping enterprise. Soil types are mainly brown clay scrub soils, with areas of lighter red basalt soils.

Machine information

Base Machine John Deere 1610 chisel plough,

Width 8 metres

Modifications Existing tines fitted with adaptors and spear points, presswheels fitted to extra bar at rear

Seed distribution system Simplicity airseeder

Seed and fertilizer capability Yes

Summer and winter crop capability Yes

Nominal row spacing 22.5 cm

Row spacing adjustable No

No. of bars 4

Type of opener Original tine fitted with Primary minimum-till adapter and spear point

Press wheel type Janke narrow

Covering device Nil

Other modifications Diffusers

Horsepower needed 190 hp

Area planted with machine to date 1,000 hectares

Replacement cost $55,000



General comments

Best features Worst features

Affordability Stubble handling ability Reasonable contour following flexibility Machine can still be used as a primary cultivating machine in the event of problem weeds such as fleabane becoming prevalent

Some soil thrown into adjacent rows when deep planting on narrow spacings

The machine is also used to pre-plant fertiliser at times, which causes significant soil disturbance

Management considerations

Planting depth 25 – 100 cm, depending on crop and moisture

Moisture seeking ability Good

Penetration Good

Planting speed 8 – 9 kph

Compaction from stock Stock not allowed to cause compaction – removed if wet

Trash clearance Good

Specific stubble management issues Harvesting contractors must have straw choppers or very effective spreaders

Possible improvements

Mud scrapers on tyres, floating hitch (self-levelling), tines with easily removed shanks (eg Janke)

Figure 4 – McInnerney John Deere 1610 chisel plough



The Town family, Kaimkillenbun – John Deere chisel plough General information Allan, Ailsa and son Bill and his wife Camille farm around 1200 hectares in the Kaimkillenbun district north east of Dalby. The country varies from soft alluvial black soil plains to small areas of lighter box ridges. Cattle are not a fundamental part of the enterprise, but cattle are sometimes agisted on grass paddocks of the home property. The Towns have now moved to a full control traffic zero till system, but prior to changing to control traffic Allan and Bill modified a John Deere chisel plough which was used for three seasons.

Machine information

Base Machine John Deere 1600 chisel plough

Width 9.2 metres

Modifications Agrow point adapters with wedge planting point

Seed distribution system Gyral airseeder cart towed behind


Summer and winter crop capability Yes – every second tine removed for summer crop planting to reduce disturbance

Nominal row spacing 37 cm winter crop, 74 cm summer crop

Row spacing adjustable Yes

No. of bars 3

Type of opener Agrow

Press wheel type Janke ribbed mounted on separate bar at rear

Covering device Chains behind presswheels

Other modifications No






General comments


Good use of existing equipment Good trash clearance

Limited row spacing adjustment to enable planting between rows of previous crops


Planting depth Not very precise – varies with contours, uneven ground


Penetration Very good

Planting speed Standard, 8 kph

Compaction from stock N/A

Trash clearance Very good

Specific stubble management issues Good choppers and sieve spreaders

Possible improvements Nil at this stage – superseded with new planter

Figure 5 – John Deere 1600 chisel plough



John and Brett Stockwell, Squaretop – Napier scarifier General information The Stockwell family’s main enterprise is a 120 cow dairy. Cows are grazed on barley and oats in the winter and forage sorghum in the summer, and wherever possible crops are planted under a zero or at least minimum till system. John is careful to point out that he is flexible, and will cultivate at times depending on seasonal conditions, compaction and crop type. Most crops grown are either grazed or cut for hay, but some grain sorghum is grown for supplementary feeding of the dairy cows. The change to a minimum/zero till system was made in order to improve moisture retention, cut costs, and spend less time on the tractor.

Machine information

Base Machine Napier Blueline rigid frame scarifier

Width 8 metres

Modifications Existing tines fitted with adaptors and narrow planting points, presswheels fitted to extra bar at rear

Seed distribution system TX Gyral 21 row seed and fertiliser box


Summer and winter crop capability Yes – at present only set up for summer crop

Nominal row spacing 1 metre for summer crops


No. of bars 5

Type of opener Original tine fitted with Keech min-till adapter

Press wheel type Janke narrow

Covering device Old tyre dragged behind each planting tine

Other modifications Experimenting with additional non-planting tine fitted in front of planting tine to prepare seedbed for planting

Horsepower needed Less than 130 hp





General comments


High lift Adjustable spacing Flexible tyne layout with scarifier frame Good trash clearance

Tines could have a higher breakout pressure


Planting depth Accurate adjustment



Planting speed 8 kph

Compaction from stock Compaction can be a big problem in some paddocks. Cultivation used at times to break up surface


Specific stubble management issues Generally not much trash to handle after grazing or baling


Fit more tines to allow planting of winter crops on 30 cm spacings, possibly heavier presswheels

Figure 6 – Napier Blueline scarifier



Terry Leerentveld, Oakey – Napier scarifier General information Terry Leeventveld and his family grow 640 hectares of wheat, barley and sorghum on heavy black and light red soil types using a minimum and/or zero till system. The family have used their machine to plant 640 acres of summer and winter crop, sometimes with limited planting moisture. Their planter allows them to direct drill through stubble from the previous crop, and has a good moisture seeking ability. The family own two properties, one near Oakey (grain production only) with a second property at Acland. The Acland property has a piggery, and grain used in the piggery operation is produced on both properties. In the future this planter will also be used to plant millet and sunflowers.

Machine information

Base Machine Napier 664 Scarifier with airseeder

Width 10 metres

Modifications Existing tines have Keech adaptors welded on and spear points. Presswheels fitted to extra bar at rear

Seed distribution system Napier Airseeder



Nominal row spacing 24.5 cm


No. of bars 5

Type of opener Tine

Press wheel type Janke wedge

Covering device Nil

Other modifications Hydraulic markers, hydraulic levelling






General comments


Ability to seek moisture Trash flow 35 mm chisel points only create minimal soil disturbance

Keeping the planter level (fore and aft) whilst planting – hydraulic leveller added to assist (also enables better ground clearance of presswheels when travelling)


Planting depth Good moisture profile 60-80 mm, but can go up to 150 mm in depth

Moisture seeking ability Easily seek to 150 mm without maximum soil disturbance

Penetration Good

Planting speed 8 km/hour, up to 10.5 km/hour

Compaction from stock NA


Specific stubble management issues No problem. Using zero till system in erosion prone paddocks

Possible Improvements The addition of harrows or a chain across the back of the unit to level out the planting furrows will make harvesting easier and smoother

Figure 7 – Napier 664 scarifier



Colin and Alan Bell, Pilton – planter built from scratch General information Colin and Alan Bell farm around 700 hectares in the Pilton Valley south east of Toowoomba. A program of opportunity or double cropping means each paddock grows five crops every three years, which would not be possible without zero till. This is the second zero-till planter that the Bells have built, and has been used since the winter of 2003. Colin stresses the importance of not being locked into any one system, but to be flexible according to the season, and the type of crop grown. For example, chickpea country is usually Agrowplowed because of low crop residue. The major reason the Bells switched to a zero till system in the early 1990s was to improve moisture infiltration and retention. The major soil types on the property are soft to heavy black clays with small areas of lighter red country.

Machine information

Base Machine Workshop built from scratch

Width 7.2 metres

Modifications Nil

Seed distribution system Gyral airseeder cart towed behind


Summer and winter crop capability Yes – first two rows of tines removed for row crops



No. of bars 3

Type of opener Garnelle tines with spear points, on parallelograms

Press wheel type Garnelle vee type





Replacement cost Unknown



General comments


Parallelogram planting units Haven’t found any bad features yet


Planting depth Able to adjust to plant where the moisture is


Penetration Good


Compaction from stock NA


Specific stubble management issues Good straw spreaders are essential

Possible improvements Nil at this stage

Figure 8 – Colin and Alan Bells home-built zero till planter



Section 3 – Zero till conversions using conventional combines/seeders

Mark Genrich, Haden – International combine General information The Genrich family operate a mixed farming enterprise on a range of soil types from light red clay loams to heavy black clays. Beef cattle are fattened on grazing oats, forage sorghum and Dolichos lab lab whilst sorghum and barley are grown for grain. The property also has areas of improved pasture and lucerne for hay production. The previous linkage planter proved too heavy for use with a 60 hp tractor on sloping country, so it was decided to convert an International combine to enable planting into heavy trash. There was also a need to have a machine able to take advantage of opportunity cropping situations.

Machine information

Base Machine International A6-1 16 row combine

Width 3 metres

Modifications New undercarriage constructed with Garnelle spring release tines.

Seed distribution system Existing seed and fertiliser box



Nominal row spacing 30 cm


No. of bars 3

Type of opener Garnelle spring release tines

Press wheel type Janke solid tyre

Covering device Cover harrows

Other modifications Nil


Area planted with machine to date 260 hectares




General comments


Can be easily converted back to a conventional combine by replacing the zero till undercarriage with the original undercarriage

Seedbox is very accurate Good trash handling abilities Good penetration

Under bar clearance is restricted by not raising the seedbox – seedbox retained in existing position to allow change back to original undercarriage when needed


Planting depth Variable, good adjustment


Penetration Good

Planting speed Varies according to soil type and moisture

Compaction from stock Manage stock to reduce compaction

Trash clearance Good, especially if travelling in direction of stubble lean. If not long stubble can be a problem

Specific stubble management issues Heavy stubble may be harrowed or slashed


The addition of coulters is being considered to improve trash and vine weed handling

Figure 9 – International A6-1 combine, Garnelle tines



Des and Stephen Kajewski, Peranga - International combine General information Des and Stephen Kajewski run a mixed farming and grazing enterprise on two properties – the home property near Mt. Darry and another block at Highland Plains, north of Oakey. A 70 cow dairy herd is run side by side with a 200 head beef cattle herd. Des and Stephen changed to a minimum-till system in 1999 in order to be able to conserve moisture and carry out more double or opportunity cropping. As most of the crops grown are either grazed or cut for hay, compaction can be a real issue on the hard setting chocolate scrub clay soils. Grazed country is usually worked once with either a chisel plough or offset disc to break up the surface to allow rainfall infiltration.

Machine information


Width 3.6 metres

Modifications Existing undercarriage removed and replaced by a two bar frame. Fitted with Garnelle tine parallelogram planting units, including coulters

Seed distribution system Standard International





No. of bars 2

Type of opener Tine

Press wheel type Garnelle soft centre

Covering device Worn out set of cover harrows to level out

Other modifications Hitch fitted with hydraulic ram to enable a level lift. Axle boxes extended to give extra lift height.






General comments


Trash clearance is excellent Good penetration, able to plant deep when needed

Depth adjustment a time consuming and fiddly process, difficult to set up for loose (worked) soil

Transport height still relatively low, especially for road transport

Trouble with planting sorghum because of low planting rate – seed holds up in sowing tubes then drops in erratic fashion leaving uneven plant stands


Planting depth Adjustment fiddly


Penetration Good


Compaction from stock Chisel plough or offsets used to break surface in grazed paddocks


Specific stubble management issues Stubble not an issue due to forage crops only being planted

Possible improvements Additional work on frame to improve lift height

Figure 10 – International A6-2 combine, Garnelle parallelograms



Ross Garratt, Linthorpe – Massey Ferguson combine General information The Garratt family (Ross, wife Robyn and son Peter) run a 140 cow dairy herd, so all cultivation country is dedicated to growing forage crops – either for grazing or chopping for silage. The switch to zero-till farming was prompted by soil erosion issues on the relatively steep cultivation, especially during summer storms. The machine has been used to plant most crops since 1998. Crops planted include forage sorghum, Dolichos lab lab, oats and barley.

Machine information

Base Machine Massey Ferguson 56 24 row combine

Width 4.3 metres

Modifications Existing undercarriage removed and replaced by a two bar frame. Fitted with Garnelle tine parallelogram planting units, including a coulter

Seed distribution system Standard Massey Ferguson

Seed and fertilizer capability Yes – split system enabling larger quantities of fertiliser to be used




No. of bars 2

Type of opener Tine

Press wheel type Garnelle soft centre

Covering device No

Other modifications Hitch fitted with hydraulic ram to enable a level lift. Lift Axle fitted with grease nipples to reduce wear due to increased weight. Axle boxes extended to give extra lift height.

Area planted with machine to date About 800 hectares (160 ha per year)





General comments


The ability of the machine to plant into virtually any situation, due to the coulters cutting trash and vines

Coulter bearings have worn out due to dust cap being removed by rocks. The coulter mount is also a weak point – could be strengthened.


Planting depth Flexible, accurate adjustment

Moisture seeking ability Not tested as yet

Penetration Good


Compaction from stock Can be a problem depending on rainfall. Compacted paddocks are chisel ploughed


Specific stubble management issues Stubble not an issue due to only forage crops being planted

Possible improvements The seedbox could be raised as there are problems with some seed not flowing evenly down sowing tubes

Figure 11 – Massey Ferguson 56 combine, Garnelle parallelograms



Royce Jensen, Quinalow – Case-Napier combine General information Royce grows a range of forage crops to provide feed for a 90 cow dairy enterprise, on light loamy scrub soil on two properties south of Quinalow. Crops established under a minimum till system with the modified combine have been forage sorghum, Dolichos lab lab, barley and grazing oats. All crops are fed off to the dairy cows. Royce moved to a minimum-till system in order to improve erosion control and conserve soil moisture. Zero till has been trialed but most crops are grown under a minimum till system. Royce has some problem weeds, such as fleabane, which have proved difficult to kill with chemicals, so some cultivation is used.

Machine information

Base Machine Case (Napier) 28 row Trashseeder.

Width 5 metres

Modifications Original undercarriage removed, new 3-bar frame built, fitted with two rows of planting tines, presswheels fitted to rear bar






No. of bars 2

Type of opener Gyral round shank no-till tines with lucerne-type point

Press wheel type Janke ribbed

Covering device Harrows

Other modifications Nil






General comments


Ability to penetrate hard ground Minimum loss of moisture at planting time

Low cost Royce is also keen to point out the advantages of not spending so much time on the tractor

Lack of weed control at planting. A few scattered weeds at planting time may be uneconomical to spray out, so the lack of cultivating ability can be frustrating



Moisture seeking ability Yes

Penetration Good

Planting speed 10 – 12 km

Compaction from stock Minimum till used when compaction a problem


Specific stubble management issues No problem with forage crops

Possible improvements None at this stage

Figure 12 – Case-Napier combine, Gyral tines



Mike Kucks, Maclagan – International combine General information Mike, Margaret and Peter Kucks run a 90 cow dairy enterprise north of Maclagan. The change to a minimum till (and preferably zero-till when possible) system was prompted by a desire to reduce soil loss. The time spent working country for a conventional farming system was also a major consideration, according to Mike. All crops grown on the property are grazed by the cows. Around 20 to 30 hectares per year are planted. Crops planted include oats, barley, forage sorghum, and forage corn.

Machine information

Base Machine International 511 20 row combine

Width 3.6 metres

Modifications Original undercarriage replaced with 3 bar frame, planting tines on front two bars with presswheels fitted to rear bar




Nominal row spacing 35 cm for winter crops, 70 cm for corn and sorghum


No. of bars 2

Type of opener Gyral round tine with narrow lucerne-type point

Press wheel type Janke ribbed swivel

Covering device No







General comments


Trash clearance Penetration

No bad features or problems so far




Penetration Good

Planting speed Same as for conventional – 7 kph

Compaction from stock Not generally a problem – compacted paddocks sometimes given one working

Trash clearance Excellent

Specific stubble management issues N/A – all crops grazed


Changing to a different type of point as the lucerne points wear out very quickly. He is also considering using cover harrows to even out the furrows to improve conditions for spraying.

Figure 13 – International 511 combine, Gyral tines



Col Purcell, Brymaroo – International combine General information Col and Bridget Purcell grow a range of summer and winter cereals in conjunction with an 80 sow piggery and a cattle fattening enterprise on their property at Brymaroo. The soil types are predominantly heavy black flats, changing to lighter red loam box ridges. Col decided to change to a zero till system in order to try and conserve more soil moisture in light of a run of drier seasons. Soil erosion is also an issue, mainly from summer storms, so conserving groundcover is a high priority with the Purcells. Col has planted oats, barley and sorghum with his planter. Col is also experimenting with planting improved pasture into existing native grass pastures.

Machine information


Width 4.3 metres

Modifications Existing undercarriage removed, replaced with 12 Austil disc opener units






No. of bars 1

Type of opener Disc

Press wheel type Austil (integrated planter unit)

Covering device No







General comments


The Austil planter units will handle any amount of trash

Extremely low level of soil disturbance

Disc openers have limitations in wet conditions

.


Planting depth Variable depth, excellent control


Penetration Good


Compaction from stock Can be a problem but is manageable. Removing stock when wet is usual practice


Specific stubble management issues Use good straw spreaders or choppers

Possible improvements Improved mud scrapers for the discs are needed

Figure 14 – International 511 combine, Austil disc openers



Barry Reimers, Quinalow – Shearer Wideseeder General information Barry and Owena Reimers use a minimum till system on their mixed farming to plant wheat, barley, oats, millet, sorghum, lucerne and mung beans. Over 900 hectares has been planted in a five year period. The soils are varied across the property, mainly light to medium scrub soils. Grain grown on the property is used in a medium sized intensive piggery. In addition to the cropping and piggery enterprises, cattle are fattened on oats and summer forage crops. The main driver for the Reimers to convert to a minimum till system was the benefit that could be gained in moisture conservation and reduced soil erosion from wind and water. The Reimers property is located in the uplands of the Myall Creek sub-catchment, within the Condamine Catchment. The property has the necessary soil conservation structures in place.

Machine information

Base Machine John Shearer 40 row Wideseeder

Width 8 metres

Modifications Original tines removed and Janke edge-on tines (with Janke replaceable points) fitted to 2 bars, presswheels fitted to rear bar

Seed distribution system Airseeder



Nominal row spacing 37.5 cm for winter crops, varying widths for summer crops


No. of bars 2

Type of opener Janke tine

Press wheel type Janke narrow wedge-type

Covering device Nil

Other modifications Seedboxes removed, converted to airseeder (buggy towed)






General comments


The ability of this planter to be flexible when going over contours is a considerable advantage

The tine frame is a bit light Underframe clearance is not the best, as the tines have to be set relatively short due to limited lift height of the wideseeder floats


Planting depth 50 – 100 cm

Moisture seeking ability Yes

Penetration Good


Compaction from stock Not usually a problem – grazing managed to avoid excessive compaction

Trash clearance Fair

Specific stubble management issues Trouble with vine weeds

Possible improvements In the future disc openers may be considered as an alternative to the tine openers currently used. However the cultivation paddocks have stones that may cause a problem with a disc opener

Figure 15 – John Shearer Wideseeder, Janke tines



Earl Perina, Brymaroo – International combine

General information Earl, Scott and Carol Perina grow a range of summer and winter crops on light red Coolibah ridges and soft alluvial black soil flats, in conjunction with a beef cattle breeding and fattening enterprise. The Perinas also operate a 245 head beef feedlot. Earl wanted to change to a minimum till system to try and eliminate soil erosion from summer storms. The lack of groundcover resulting from cultivation was seen as the main reason for erosion, and a run of dry seasons made planting winter crops especially difficult in a conventional system. Earl does not consider running cattle in conjunction with a no-till system a problem. It all comes down to management.

Machine information


Width 5 metres

Modifications Floats discarded, new frame built in sections to accommodate Janke clamp-on tines with Janke presswheels mounted in-frame






No. of bars 2

Type of opener Janke replaceable spear point

Press wheel type Janke narrow solid


Other modifications Frame lifted from wheel axles to give more height






General comments


Good trash clearance Good penetration Reliable International seedbox and drive system

The cost of conversion to be relatively cheap

Difficulty in handling very heavy trash with vine weeds is a drawback


Planting depth OK, parallelogram would be better


Penetration Good


Compaction from stock No problem – grazing management issue


Specific stubble management issues Good spreaders, some straw baled for feedlot

Possible improvements Possibility of changing to parallelogram units for improved depth control

Figure 16 – International 511 combine, Janke tines



Peter Halford, Mt. Tyson – International combine General information Peter and Paula Halford moved into a minimum/zero till farming system in 1995 in order to try and reduce soil erosion and improve rainfall infiltration on a mixed farming operation on the edge of the Upper Condamine floodplain. Soil types are mainly heavy black clays with some areas of lighter soils. The main crops grown are wheat, barley, grazing oats, sorghum, mung beans and chick peas. Most of the cereal grain produced is used in an on-farm cattle feedlot. The move to this system has dramatically reduced the time spent on the tractor, resulting in less wear and tear on machinery and a lower labour input.

Machine information


Width 4.2 metres

Modifications Existing undercarriage replaced with a 3 bar frame. Planting tines fitted to front two bars and presswheels fitted to rear bar




Nominal row spacing 30.5 cm for winter cereals, 76 cm for sorghum and chick peas


No. of bars 2

Type of opener Janke tine

Press wheel type Janke ribbed. Mounted directly behind the tines.

Covering device Harrows (occasionally)

Other modifications Seedbox raised and frame raised 20 cm, hitch raised






General comments


Good ability to plant summer crops into heavy trash

Capability for opportunity cropping

Winter cereals planted on narrower rows can create trash handling problems

.




Penetration Good


Compaction from stock Look at possibility of deep ripping grazed country

Trash clearance Excellent for summer crop, average for winter crop planting

Specific stubble management issues Wheat stubble is usually slashed and baled for the feedlot. Best results when crop is harvested low and straw is chopped

Possible improvements Possible change to a disc opener undercarriage. Improve trash handling for winter cropping by adding another bar. Possible addition of precision planter boxes for summer crop planting.

Figure 17 – International A6-2 combine, Janke undercarriage



Section 4 – Zero till conversions using three-point linkage toolbars

Ken Burton, Brymaroo – International row-crop planter General information Ken and Ruth Burton operate a grain farming enterprise near Brymaroo, growing barley, wheat, sorghum, mung beans and millets. Soil types range from deep alluvial black clays to lighter box and coolibah country on the ridges. The major reason for the Burtons switch to zero till was to conserve moisture in what seems to have developed into a “drought farming” system over the past 10 to 14 years. Ken also does a significant area of contract planting with his machine each year, as far away as Meandarra on the Western Downs.

Machine information

Base Machine International Cyclo row-crop planter

Width 6 metres

Modifications Original planter units removed and replaced by 18 Austil disc opener units. Napier airseeder fitted to front of tractor

Seed distribution system Napier airseeder (front mounted), Cyclo planter

Seed and fertilizer capability Yes – split system for 2 types of fertiliser for summer crops




No. of bars 1

Type of opener Austil disc opener units

Press wheel type Austil vee

Covering device No


Horsepower needed 200 hp – power to lift the machine rather than pull it





General comments


Excellent trash clearance Good moisture seeking ability. Every crop planted with the machine has been a good one.

Disc openers are not good in wet conditions due to build up of mud on the disc

Scraper systems have not proved very good so far


Planting depth Simple adjustment, very accurate


Penetration Good

Planting speed 10 – 12 kph – high speed not a problem in most conditions

Compaction from stock N/A


Specific stubble management issues Good spreaders and/or chopper

Possible improvements Ken is considering tramlining, and remove planter units behind tractor wheel tracks. Due to the considerable weight of the machine on the tractor, tyre tracks tend to be very compacted

Figure 18 – International row-crop planter, Austil single disc units



Bob Comben, Kaimkillenbun – Janke row-crop planter General information Bob and Ruth Comben switched to a minimum till system because of a need to improve moisture conservation during a run of dry seasons. The Combens farm mainly flat black soil self-mulching clays with some lighter red box country on the plain adjoining Kaimkillenbun. Bob is not locked into a total zero-till system, but is mindful of the need to be flexible according to the season. However, a full zero-till plant is carried out where possible. Bob feels that some soils may need a deep cultivation occasionally, depending on conditions such as stubble cover, stock, or cracking due to an exceptionally dry season.

Machine information

Base Machine Janke twin row 40” planter

Width 8 metres

Modifications Extra tine assemblies added, coulter added to front bar

Seed distribution system Janke Nu-module planter boxes, Janke fertiliser boxes





No. of bars 3

Type of opener Janke replaceable spear point

Press wheel type Janke zero-pressure

Covering device No



Area planted with machine to date 400 hectares, 3 seasons




General comments


Very good trash clearance Accuracy of planter units for summer crop plantings.

Would like narrower spacings for winter crops


Planting depth Variable, easily adjustable

Moisture seeking ability Very good



Compaction from stock No problem usually – heavily compacted country sometimes lightly worked


Specific stubble management issues Good spreaders, graze sorghum stubble

Possible improvements Bob will add a combine-type seed and fertiliser box and more planting tines to improve winter crop planting performance.

Figure 19 – Janke row-crop planter



Harold Kowitz, Aubigny – modified cotton planter General information Harold Kowitz farms around 200 hectares of soft black alluvial plains, as well as 150 hectares of heavy black to lighter scrub soils on the edge of the Aubigny plain. The switch to zero-till was mainly because of cost savings and time savings. The change has produced other benefits, such as moisture remaining closer to the surface which means an ability to plant zero-till country after a much longer period without rainfall compared to conventional. Harold does not strictly adhere to a zero-till system, rather than a flexibility to change according to crop type, weed spectrum and seasonal conditions. This is Harold’s second zero-till planter, built in his workshop. The first model was fitted with Janke tines, and these have now been replaced by Austil disc units, as Harold considered the disc opener to be superior on his country.

Machine information

Base Machine Farmer-built cotton planter toolbar

Width 4.6 metres

Modifications 6 Austil disc planter units fitted, Horwood Bagshaw seedbox mounted above

Seed distribution system Horwood Bagshaw 24 run seed and fertiliser box


Summer and winter crop capability No – at this stage the planter is only set up for summer crops (wide rows)



No. of bars 1

Type of opener Disc

Press wheel type Austil for zero-till, Janke zero pressure for cultivated country

Covering device Janke spring tine ticklers before presswheel


Horsepower needed 100 hp (large enough to lift the planter)

Area planted with machine to date 160 hectares (1 season)




General comments


Will go through any amount of trash Seed placement is very precise Planter can be easily modified to be able to plant winter crops

The disc units are difficult to keep out of the ground in soft cultivated situations


Planting depth Very accurate adjustment of depth

Moisture seeking ability Hasn’t been tried yet

Penetration Excellent


Compaction from stock Not applicable


Specific stubble management issues

Good spreaders, choppers ideal

Possible improvements Harold will add a further 5 units on stub bars to enable winter crop planting on 37 cm spacings

Figure 20 – farmer-built cotton planter, Austil single disc units



Section 5 – Taking it to another level – controlled traffic

David and Robbie Curtis, Millmerran – Gessner frame, Austil single-disc openers

General information David and Robbie Curtis own and manage a 1,500 hectare farming and grazing property just east of Millmerran. Besides growing around 1,100 hectares of various grain crops each year, the Curtis’ run around 2,200 wethers on native and improved pastures. The main soil type is a difficult to manage hard-setting grey box soil. David changed to a zero-till farming system after the wool price collapse in the early 1990s. David was driven by a need to improve farming methods and become more productive and efficient, as well as reducing soil erosion on very erodible soil types. The change to a controlled traffic system has been made possible through the purchase of a new planter, designed and built by Gessner Industries (Toowoomba) to specific design criteria to suit David and Robbies farming operation. The Gessner frame is fitted with 36 Austil single disc planting units. A 4,500 litre Simplicity air cart is towed behind the planter. The planter is set up to plant both winter and summer crops – winter crops on a 32.5 cm spacing, and sorghum on 1 metre spacings.

Figure 21 – overall view of the Curtis planter

All cultivation paddocks have permanent controlled traffic tracks set out. Tracks are set up for a 2 metre wheel spacing, which suits the Steiger Cougar tractor and John Deere 2850 tractor used to pull a 24metre Hardi trailing boomspray. At this stage the tracks are not set up to suit header tracks, but this may be an option in the future.



Crops planted so far include wheat, barley, sorghum, millet, oats and mung beans. Over three seasons David has planted over 8,000 hectares with the planter, with some contract planting being carried out for some neighbouring farmers as well. David says that any investment into a zero-till system will be repaid. The savings in time, fuel and wear and tear alone make it pay, without the increased soil moisture profile, and ability to plant a crop on-time virtually any time.

Machine information

Machine description Gessner Industries frame, with floating hitch and front wheels pivoting. Fitted with 36 Austil planter units on two bars.

Width 12 metres

Seed distribution system Trailed Simplicity airseeder cart, hydraulic driven



Nominal row spacing 32.5 cm for winter, 1 metre for sorghum


No. of bars 2

Type of opener Single disc

Press wheel type Austil vee type

Horsepower needed 150 hp would be plenty (currently using existing Steiger Cougar tractor, at reduced revs to save fuel)



Figure 22 – close up of Austil units



The Town Family, Kaimkillenbun – Gray disc planter units on three-point linkage bar General information Allan, Ailsa and son Bill and his wife Camille farm around 1,200 hectares on two properties in the Kaimkillenbun district north east of Dalby. The country varies from soft alluvial black soil plains to small areas of lighter box ridges. Cattle are not a fundamental part of the enterprise, but are sometimes agisted on grass areas of the home property. The Towns have now moved to a full control traffic zero-till system, and a new planter has been custom designed and built to work in with the wheel tracks of headers and the boomspray. The wheel tracks of all machinery (header, tractor, and spray coupe) are now on 3 metre spacings. The chaser bin has also been converted to 3 metre track width, but at the moment still has to be moved off the tracks to take grain from the header. Allan and Bill are planning further modifications to enable unloading on the go whilst remaining on the tramlines. The new planter was designed Ian Burt and Bill Town (who is an agricultural engineer), and built by Grays Engineering, Dalby. The frame is 9.1metres wide, with one main bar carrying Gray Engineering single disc planter units. The weight of the machine is supported by hydraulic lift assist caster wheels. The planter is only set up summer crops at this stage. Allan says they are looking at putting in another bar and more planter units to enable winter crop planting on 35 cm rows. Seed and fertiliser is supplied by a Gyral airseeder cart towed behind the planter.

Figure 23 – wide view of the Town planter

Sorghum is the only crop that has been planted with this planter until 2004. The best feature of this planter is that it has enabled a change to controlled traffic, giving good outcomes in terms of compaction and fuel savings. Alan also likes the ability to quickly change row spacings to enable planting down between the rows of the previous crop. Trash clearance is excellent.



Machine information

Machine description Rigid frame toolbar, set up with lift-assist caster wheels, fitted with 12 Gray Engineering disc planter units (summer crop), 24 units for winter crop planting

Width 9.1metres

Seed distribution system Trailed Gyral airseeder cart





No. of bars 2

Type of opener Single disc

Press wheel type Twin cast steel closing wheels, followed by a soft wedge Janke zero till presswheel

Horsepower needed 220 hp (mainly for axle strength and lift capacity)



Figure 24 – close up of Gray disc units



Section 6 – Landcare groups involved in zero till South Myall Creek Catchment Landcare Group

South Myall Creek Landcare Group commissioned Chester Kucks (Austil, Quinalow) to build a planter to enable members to trial areas of zero till on their properties. Many members have expressed interest in moving to zero till but still unsure about making the commitment. The planter is narrow enough (around 4 metres overall) to be able to be transported along main roads. The planter is fitted with seven Austil disc opener

units and can be set up to plant virtually any crop. Contact Glenys Bowtell on 4692 1347

Clifton Landcare Group Clifton Landcare have available a 10 row Multi-farming Systems planter (built by David Trevalian at Banana in Central Queensland) available for hire by group members and anyone else intersted in tialing zero till. This planter has been used by numerous landholders in the Central and North East Darling Downs districts since 1996. Contact Louise Skidmore on 4697 3148

Condamine Headwaters Landcare Group The Condamine Headwaters Landcare Group, covering the Warwick and Allora Shires, has a zero-

till planter that is based on a 14 tine John Shearer chisel plough, and was developed for the benefit of members looking to experiment with zero till cropping. The machine was modified by group members with assistance from Warwick TAFE students. The machine won the BHP Landcare Award in 1994, and was an entrant in the 1994 National Landcare Awards.

Contact John Armbruster on 4667 3138



Further reading Controlled Traffic Farming Guide Conservation Farmers Inc. (2003)

Growers Guide to deep Sowing Conservation Farmers (2003)

The 2nd Fallow Weed Management Guide Conservation Farmers (2003)

Min-till Drill a Guide to Minimum Till Cropping Systems

Kondinin Group (2002)

Zero Till Planters in the Burnett Richard Mason, Burnett Catchment Care Association Inc. (2000)

Different Implements for a Different Seedbed Jim Greenaway, QDPI&F (1997)

Farmer Developed Planters for Stubble Farming John Marshall, Conservation Farming Centre (1992)

The Conservation Farmer Newsletter Conservation Farmers Inc., bimonthly (subscription with membership)



Notes

Garnelle Industries specializes in the design and manufacture of Conservation Farming Equipment and can look after your special needs. From bolt on zero-till conversions (including Spear Point Adaptors, Press Wheels, Tine Assemblies, Paralellograms, Disc Openers and Coulter Assemblies), for Combines, Chisel Ploughs etc., to Complete Machines and Air Seeders designed to suit your requirments

105 Yandilla Street, Pittsworth Q 4356 Phone: (07) 4693 3592 Fax: (07) 4693 3012 Postal Address: Box 122, Pittsworth Q 4356 Email: [email protected] Website: www.garnelle.com ACN 065 078 873 ABN 93 808 249 903

Documents

Zero till planters in the Condamine till book 13-5-09.pdf · There are a lot of smart and innovative farmers out there who have faced the challenge. I hope their ... Zero till planters