European Union policy to reduce CO2 emissions and agricultural subsidies
The European Commission has approved Poland's Strategic Plan for the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) for 2023-27. Under the first pillar of CAP, payments will be provided from EU funds as financial support. A portion of these funds may be accessible to you. This involves the "Carbon farming" eco-scheme, which is widely adopted in Poland. One of its practices, "Simplified cultivation systems," pertains to the increasingly common no-plough cultivation in our country.

The practice of "Simplified tillage systems" and the consequent development of no-plough tillage
"Simplified cultivation systems" are gaining popularity partly due to the opportunity for direct payments. However, this farming method in Poland is not new. Since around 2003, research on its effectiveness has been ongoing at the Agricultural University of Poznań, and many farmers have successfully implemented its principles for two decades. Simplified cultivation systems minimize tillage operations and disturbances to soil biochemistry. In practice, this involves abandoning traditional ploughing and acquiring a multifunctional loosening and crumbling machine. Examples include a cultivator for no-plough cultivation or a chisel plough.

Cultivator for no-plough soil cultivation – key features to consider when making an investment
A cultivator for no-plough soil cultivation is an essential machine used in a simplified cultivation system. It crushes and aerates the soil, mixes crop residues with its top layer, and prepares the field for sowing. When properly used, it serves as a multi-purpose, highly efficient, and self-sufficient tool on the farm. However, achieving this requires selecting a model distinguished by several features.

Working elements and additional equipment
Before purchasing, consider whether the working elements of the cultivator support operation at depths of up to 35 cm. The choice of the tillage roller or additional equipment, such as a beam with a spring comb to spread straw on the field surface, can be crucial. This enables the adaptation of the cultivator to various needs and conditions. The multifunctional Rolmako U436 tillage cultivator is designed for no-plough soil cultivation. Its two working systems, Delta and AgriFlex, allow for deep cultivation up to 35 cm after removing the side shares used for undercutting and mixing stubble. The optional knife roller for the trailed version enhances the cultivator's ability to shred crop residues. The machine's high configurability allows it to meet farmer expectations.

Distance adjustment is possible
Adjusting the position of the leveling discs and the roller from the working elements is crucial. When power is sufficient for higher working speeds, positioning the rear sections further from the tines is preferable. When the tractor's compatibility with the cultivator is marginal, and there is insufficient front load or lifting capacity, shifting the center of gravity closer to the pulling point can significantly reduce lifting capacity demands. The drawbar shape in trailed machines is also important. A high-mounted drawbar facilitates the cultivator's entry into the soil.

Adjustment of working depth from the tractor cabin
In most cases, mechanical adjustment of the tine working depth setting will suffice. When frequent changes of this parameter are required, such as when the cultivator operates at varying soil depths, a convenient and efficient method to adjust it using hydraulic cylinders is beneficial.

Tine protection system
An intriguing solution is the Non-Stop spring protection. Initially, when the tine encounters an obstacle, it promptly tilts up and returns to the set depth. Additionally, it does not necessitate replacing any parts. Rolmako incorporates the Non-Stop protection using double springs for particularly challenging conditions in the U436 cultivators as standard; deflection occurs when a force exceeding 600 kg impacts the coulter.

Chisel plow – what features to pay attention to before buying?

The chisel plough is another tool that supports the eco-scheme of simplified cultivation. It is as versatile as the cultivator and allows for deep soil loosening. The chisel facilitates the creation of humus in the soil without the need for overturning, and the spiked roller behind the tines further breaks up and levels the ground. This prepares the field for sowing.

Prior to purchasing, please consider:
- weight and proper weight distribution. This determines whether the chisel plough can operate efficiently at significant depths, even in hard soil. Heavy-duty plows are substantial devices suitable for large farms and service companies, such as the heavy Rolmako U624PRO DeepTiller chisel plow. It is essential to consider the tractor's lifting capacity and pulling power when selecting a machine. Rolmako offers three different versions of the chisel plow: the aforementioned heaviest model, the U624 chisel plow with Ripper tines—this is the most commonly selected model—and a light chisel plow compatible with smaller tractors. It must be noted that the heavier the machine, the better it will penetrate the soil.

- shape and craftsmanship of the chisel. The "shark fin" facilitates easier penetration of the soil's upper layer and reduces resistance. A hardened chisel or one with built-in cemented carbide extends the service life and the time needed to replace working elements. Side undercutters enable a wider groove opening in the ground. The working elements of all chisel ploughs consist of similar components, with the details contributing to lower energy demand. Rolmako chisel ploughs have the lowest resistance coefficients, ensuring exceptional field performance. This results in reduced fuel consumption per hectare of processed field.

- hydraulic overload protection. When the tine encounters an obstacle, hydraulic oil transfers from the actuator to the accumulator. This mechanism absorbs the force of stronger impacts, enabling the tine to tilt and then return to its predetermined position. This protection system allows for the adjustment of tine release force and can be tailored to specific field requirements.

- tandem spiky roller. No other roller has such a significant impact on the final effect of cultivation. Its primary function is to loosen the soil, improve its structure, and prepare it for subsequent stages, such as sowing. It introduces plant residues into the ground, which can enhance soil quality. The spiked roller improves water relations in the soil and facilitates the flow of air.

Cultivator for no-plough farming and chisel plough – how to choose?

How can I succinctly describe the difference between these two devices? A chisel plough for no-plough soil cultivation is a versatile and therefore more expensive piece of equipment compared to a cultivator. The chisel plough allows for subsoiling the field. Simplified cultivation manages substantial crop residue passing through the machine.

Therefore, in both machines, the following is of great importance:
- significant clearance under the frame, proper beam spacing, aligned tines, and substantial roller distance from the working elements enhance the device's efficiency and performance.
- the amount and quality of steel used in constructing the machines significantly impact their longevity, with robust and solid tools ensuring extended durability without the necessity of adding weight.

It is also advisable to invest in working components made from cemented carbide, which offer up to three times longer service life, particularly on highly abrasive surfaces such as sandy soil. Both Rolmako machines meet all these requirements.

Cultivator for no-plough soil cultivation and chisel plow – is it worthwhile?
The experience of numerous farmers in Poland indicates that transitioning from ploughing to a simplified cultivation system yields several benefits. What are they?
Ecology - Notable advancements in soil microbiology are evident, such as a thicker humus layer. Simplified cultivation enhances water management by accelerating water penetration into the soil and reducing losses from runoff and evaporation. Additionally, less CO2 is released into the atmosphere, tractors consume less fuel, and more decomposed matter remains in the soil.
Time saving - By adopting reduced tillage and utilizing a cultivator for no-plough soil cultivation or a chisel plough, you can cultivate 1 hectare in significantly less time compared to the traditional ploughing system.
Lower costs - What is the cost of tractor fuel per hectare? How many trips are required for traditional ploughing to sow the field? In no-plough farming, one trip suffices to prepare the land for sowing with the appropriate equipment investment. Additionally, a subsidy is available under the eco-scheme.
Increase in yields - Some individuals, after transitioning to no-plough farming and utilizing the corresponding tools correctly, observe higher yields the subsequent year. While much depends on the soil type and other conditions, the undeniable improvement in soil quality will directly influence the increase in yields—not only immediately but also in 20, 40, or 100 years. Thus, it can be considered an investment for the future.
The reduced tillage system is particularly recommended for farmers experiencing water erosion or operating in hilly terrains. Considering climate change and the increasing frequency of droughts, it is advisable for all to adopt this cultivation method. Moreover, the regulations for the "Carbon farming" eco-scheme have been simplified.