In agriculture, the drag harrow is an important tool for ploughing. Drag harrows are used for a wide variety of purposes, including agriculture, livestock, and ranch maintenance. For U.S. farmers, understanding what a drag harrow is used for and how to add weight to it can help farmers better improve the quality of their land.
What Is a Drag Harrow Used For?
Soil Levelling
Drag harrows are effective at levelling ploughed land. Levelling removes irregularities from the soil surface. Water can penetrate the soil better. The root system of plants is also better aerated. Through the action of the drag harrow, soil conditions are more favourable for the farmer to sow and plant crops.
Breaking up Clods
After ploughing, the soil often forms large clumps, which can be broken up using a drag harrow.
Mixing Organic Matter
The drag harrow mixes the applied organic fertiliser with the soil. This helps to distribute the nutrients evenly and increases the fertility of the soil.
Weed Removal
Using a drag harrow you can remove weeds and unwanted plants from your lawn. Improves the growing environment for crops.
Preparing for Sowing
Harrowing with a drag harrow in early spring creates soil conditions suitable for sowing. Harrowing with a drag harrow in the autumn of the year improves the quality of the soil before winter arrives.
How to Add Weight to a Drag Harrow?
Adding weight to a drag harrow can increase the efficiency of the equipment and help the farmer better handle the soil. Here are a few common ways to do this:
Adding Extra Weight
Use wooden crates filled with rocks or dirt or concrete-filled tyres. This can add significant weight to the tow rake. For example, use a plastic bucket, filled with concrete and embedded with a length of galvanised pipe to make it easier to move.
Using Concrete Blocks and Fence Posts
Using a few concrete blocks combined with a couple of short fence posts attached to the top can be an effective way to add weight.
Use Plywood and Sandbags
Wire a piece of plywood and add some sandbags. This method also adds weight to the drag harrow and is suitable for most crops.
Utilise Heavy Duty Cement Blocks
If you can't get rails, consider using those heavy cement blocks that look like parking spaces. They are dense and heavy, making them suitable for adding weight to a drag rake.
Recommended Tow Rakes from Landtop's Online Shop
If you're looking for a high-quality drag harrow, consider the Landtop online shop, which offers a wide range of drag harrows to suit different agricultural needs. Customers are free to choose the weight and specifications according to their needs.