Opico has added the option of on-the-move hydraulic tine adjustment to its comb harrow range.
It provides the operator with the facility to alter the angle of attack without needing to leave the tractor cab, the weeding harrow is kept running at optimal efficiency as crop and soil conditions change across the field.
Current models require manual adjustment on each independent floating bed. With this hydraulic option, operators will now have variable adjustment at their fingertips.
Altering the tine pitch changes how aggressively the harrow works and it is critical it is set correctly to match both to crop and weed seedling growth stage. This new feature enhances the removal of unwanted weeds by maintaining the gyroscopic movement of the tine in the soil.
Organic farmers have been using mechanical weeding technology for many years but an integrated “hybrid” approach – combining chemical and mechanical options – is increasingly being adopted as we enter an age of herbicide-resistant weeds suggests the company. The reduction of available active ingredients in the UK, along with the shift to environmentally-led policies, are likely to encourage farmers to seek out alternative weed removal options that don’t derive from a can or bag.
This season the company will have a 12m demonstration comb harrow fitted with an Air16E Pro Seeder available for on-farm trials across the country. Those interested should contact their Opico territory manager.
