The right soil cultivation makes all the difference

3 January 2022

As partner of Topmais*, Evers took part in maize cultivation trials on a demonstration plot in Kamperveen, the Netherlands. Several trials were held in 2021. All with the same maize variety, manuring and sowing time. The grass was cut prior to maize cultivation. Soil cultivation methods made a demonstrable difference. Can you spot the differences in the aerial photographs below?

30 September 2021 - Day of the Topmäis event

30 September 2021 - Day of the Topmäis event

26 October 2021 - Day before harvesting

26 October 2021 - Day before harvesting

The fields with maize growing on ridges are easy to spot. The dark-green colour is indicative of vigorous plants for a successful and reliable maize harvest. The differences are also clearly visible from a shorter distance. The maize is more abundant and vigorous on fields 2 and 4. A top performance of the soil!

Maize growing on ridges

Minimum soil cultivation for the best results

In a previous knowledgebase article it was described that growing 'Maize on ridges' allows for the soil to excel. For an optimal yield, the soil must be suitable for developing roots and able to absorb moisture. Another important aspect is organic matter, which has a major effect on soil quality. For the most effective use of organic matter it should be retained in the uppermost soil layer. The same goes for injecting slurry. It should stay shallow under the surface. With the Evers subsoiler for ridge cultivation the slurry and organic matter are mixed and incorporated in the ridge. In other words, everything is there where the maize plants will grow.

Advantages of tillage using the Evers subsoiler for ridge cultivation:

Advantages of tillage using the Evers subsoiler for ridge cultivation
Advantages of tillage using the Evers subsoiler for ridge cultivation

Results of feed value analysis

A feed value analysis has been made of all fields. The results confirm what the aerial photographs indicate. The maize on ridges is still developing and less advanced in the ripening process. As the maize is ripening, the proportion of cob in the dry matter will increase. For instance, an increase in the Dry Matter Content means an increase in the starch content. Due to the simultaneous chopping moment instead of an equal Dry Matter Content, the results of feed values should be put in perspective. The potential of maize on ridges in terms of feed values and trace elements is obvious. Soil cultivation makes all the difference!

Keen to hear about the results? Give us a call and we will gladly tell you in person!

Efficient maize cultivation is more important than ever!

Fertiliser prices are going through the roof all over the world. Manure has an immediate effect on production and soil balance. Innovative techniques contribute to reliable and future-proof maize cultivation. A good reason for you to be well-prepared for the coming season. To save on costly fertiliser, a thorough preparation means that half the work is done. Grow the maize on ridges and allow for the soil to excel!

* Topmais is an initiative of a number of partners in the sector to share knowledge with regard to maize cultivation.

Maize on ridges - Evers Ridge subsoiler
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