DIRECTO NO worked at Dlouhé Dvory, Czech Republic

As part of an experiment with winter wheat of the Butterfly variety, we tested three different seeding methods on fields in Dlouhé Dvory near Hradec Králové. The goal was to compare traditional tillage and subsequent seeding with modern direct seeding technologies, including the DIRECTO NO seed drill. Direct seeding showed significant advantages, particularly in retaining soil moisture during dry periods, which led to a higher number of productive tillers and more stable yields. Beyond agronomic benefits, direct seeding proved to be more economical due to lower fuel consumption, fewer passes over the field, and reduced herbicide costs. This approach offers an effective solution for conditions with large weather fluctuations and contributes to sustainable soil management.

In an experiment with winter wheat of the Butterfly variety (a high-quality spike type), a seeding rate of 3.9 MKS (180 kg/ha) was selected for fields. Seeding was conducted directly into a mixture of buckwheat, sunflower, and mustard on sandy-loam soil. We compared three seeding methods: a traditional control with stubble followed by loosening, a competitive direct seed drill with a cutting roller, and direct seeding using the DIRECTO NO machine, also with a cutting roller.

Direct seeding plays a key role in maintaining optimal soil moisture, which is essential for sustaining healthy and productive tillers. These tillers are then effectively transformed into high-quality spikes, thereby increasing the overall yield.

The harvest evaluation shows positive results. Although plants initially developed more slowly on both direct seeding variants, the situation changed significantly with the onset of drought. It became clear that areas where direct seeding was used had a better ability to retain soil moisture. This allowed these variants to maintain a higher number of productive tillers, positively impacting yield. Additionally, both the control variant and the variant seeded with the DIRECTO NO seed drill showed optimal bulk density, confirming the quality of the harvest.

Beyond yield assessment, it’s essential to consider the overall economics of direct seeding and its soil-friendly benefits. Since the soil is not subjected to repeated machinery passes, the risk of compaction is reduced, enhancing its long-term quality. Fewer passes also mean lower fuel and labour costs, providing another significant economic benefit. Additionally, direct seeding reduces weed pressure, leading to lower herbicide requirements and savings in this area. Given the ongoing pressure of climate change, this seeding method proved highly efficiency – it simplifies work, eliminates several operations, and still ensures stable yields even in unpredictable conditions.

+ 226 €/1 hа DIRECTO NO vs. conventional seeding technology + 80 €/1 hа DIRECTO NO vs. competitor

JOY OF FARMING
[email protected]
BEDNAR FMT s.r.o.