The Benefits of Disc Harrows: How Discing Can Make Field Conditions Better With or Without Plowing

When it comes to preparing soil for planting, plowing has long been the go-to tilling method for farmers. Though plowing offers many benefits, including weed control, breaking up of hard soil, and aeration, it should be noted that plowing has disadvantages too. Soil erosion, soil structure damage, loss of organic matter, and disruption of soil microorganisms can all be impacted by plowing. When it comes to choosing a tilling method, plowing isn’t your only option, and other tillage equipment can be useful depending on the unique soil conditions on your farm. 

At Avonlea Farm Sales Inc., we were founded by farmers in 1988 and understand the unique needs of farmers. We know that plowing can be improved by using a disc harrow after plowing, and in some cases, discing alone may be enough to prepare your soil while maintaining its health. In this post, we cover the basics of plowing and disc to help you determine which farming equipment is best suited for your farm.

What’s The Difference Between Plowing and Discing?

Plowing and discing are both tilling methods though they are not quite the same.  Plowing is considered to be a primary tilling method and involves completely turning over the top layer of soil while bringing lower soil layers to the surface. Deep plowing is usually done with equipment such as chisel plows.

Discing, on the other hand, would be considered a secondary tillage method and generally takes place after plowing. Discing is not a deep tilling method and instead offers benefits such as creating a seedbed and breaking up clumps in the soil. Plowing and discing are often used together to promote soil health while preparing a field.  

Do You Need to Plow Before You Disc?

It is typical that a field will be plowed before discing though it may not always be necessary to do so. Plowing and discing combined offer many benefits that can improve soil conditions while preparing a field for planting. Keep in mind that the soil conditions unique to your farm will determine whether plowing, discing or another form of tilling equipment will be needed. Always ensure that soil type and conditions are assessed for best results.

Can Discing Replace Plowing?

In some cases, a disc plow may be suitable to be used on its own and can potentially be used in place of a deeper tilling method. Though no-till or low-till options are gaining popularity, they aren’t always the right choice for some farms. For lighter soil types, discing may be sufficient though other factors such as weeds and residue management should be considered when determining which method of tilling is ideal.
When looking for tillage equipment for sale in Manitoba, the experts at Avonlea Farm Sales are here to help. Contact a member of our team to discuss the unique needs of your farm, and let us help you find tillage equipment that allows you to create optimal soil conditions year after year.