Considerations before employing Strip-Till technology The field for the introduction of strip technology must be adequately prepared to ensure the simplified tillage methods employed attain a location where they can realize all associated benefits.

One of the most crucial activities is to regulate the soil pH, which should be close to 6.5. Such a pH level will enhance its fertility and nutrient availability. It is equally important to determine the soil's macronutrient content and, if necessary, perform corrective fertilization to maintain optimal NPK levels (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium).

Prior to commencing strip tillage, it is advisable to implement effective herbicide protection to address persistent perennial weeds, particularly couch grass and field thistle. The final consideration is determining the optimal crop rotation, which involves selecting a sequence of plants that mitigates the proliferation of weeds, diseases, and pests. Crop rotation should encompass all plant groups: cereals, rapeseed, root crops, large-seeded legumes, corn, and, if feasible within the farming system, small-seeded legumes.

The use of strip tillage technology does not exclude post-harvest tillage operations, which aim to shallowly (usually up to 10 cm) mix crop residues with the soil. This operation combats secondary weed infestation, accelerates the mineralization of crop residues, and stimulates the germination of weed and crop seeds. Germinated weeds can be partially eradicated during subsequent mechanical operations, allowing for a reduction in herbicide use and utilizing crop residues as natural fertilizer.

SpeedCutter for substantial crop residue
For post-harvest cultivation and preparation of the sowing position using Strip-Till technology, the SpeedCutter harrow can be utilized. It is equipped with 440 mm diameter discs (alternatively, the traditional OFAS 560 mm toothed disc, better suited for high corn stubbles, may be used), allowing for depth adjustment based on the amount of crop residue remaining after the main crop harvest. Additionally, the discs cut crop residues left in the field. This is particularly important when cultivating high rapeseed stubbles and corn harvested for grain.

In the summer, during peak field work, the efficiency of the machine is a critical parameter. The SpeedCutter harrow significantly outperforms the traditional plough in terms of efficiency. The SpeedCutter operates at speeds up to 20 km/h. In a single pass, the harrow cuts crop residues and mixes them evenly and shallowly with the soil.

ComboTill for shallow stubble cultivation
ComboTill has slightly different properties; it can be used for shallow stubble cultivation. However, it does not provide additional cutting of post-harvest residues left on the field surface, but spreads them effectively over the entire width of the crop.

Optimal utilization of a single trip
When utilizing strip tillage technology, it is crucial to effectively and optimally manage crop residues. They should be finely crumbled and evenly distributed across the field surface. This ensures efficient sowing and prevents quality reduction due to local straw accumulation.

Corn tolerates simplified tillage techniques, such as Strip-Till technology, effectively. However, post-harvest, especially for grain, high stubble remains, necessitating thorough crumbling and mixing with the soil.

For the cultivation of high stubbles and the optimal use of one pass in the field, Rolmako recommends TurboCut or TurboCut Plus. These machines, mounted to the front three-point linkage of the tractor, are equipped with two rollers with knives or a roller with knives and wavy cutting discs. This combination allows for very fine chopping of crop residues, which is essential for limiting the occurrence of the corn borer. The procedure carried out with TurboCut or TurboCut Plus destroys its wintering places.

These machines offer an alternative to the classic mulcher. Utilizing the tractor's front three-point linkage permits attachment of additional implements, such as the ComboTill cultivator or SpeedCutter harrow, effectively integrating cut crop residue with the soil. This approach enhances work efficiency and reduces the number of field passes.

Field preparation before sowing
Effective stubble cultivation with ComboTill or SpeedCutter results in numerous weed and self-seeding crop emergences. Their control before sowing in Strip-Till technology can be achieved using a non-selective herbicide containing glyphosate. However, following the principles of Integrated Plant Protection, weed control should initially employ non-chemical methods. The SpringExpert harrow is well-suited for mechanical weed control before sowing. The harrow operates at speeds up to 25 km/ha and, with optimal tine spacing, provides rapid and environmentally safe weed elimination.

Deep cultivation prior to sowing using Strip-Till technology
Before sowing plants with a tap and deep root system, it is recommended to perform deep cultivation. In traditional technology, a plough with a moldboard is used for this purpose. In a simplified cultivation system, its function is taken over by a chisel plough, such as the Rolmako U624.

The use of a chisel plough facilitates soil cultivation without inversion, ensuring the mixing and crumbling of the topsoil. It mitigates the risk of a plough pan and prevents excessive accumulation of crop residues at the furrow's base. The "straw cushion" restricts water absorption, and its decomposition in anaerobic conditions could be significantly limited, adversely impacting crop plants.

Summary
The primary machine in this system is the Strip-Till unit, which simultaneously cultivates strips and sows. To fully utilize this system's potential, additional tools are often employed to manage crop residues, control weeds, and loosen deep soil. Supporting tools for Strip-Till cultivation, such as disc harrows, mulch harrows, and chisel ploughs, enhance its efficiency, improve soil health, increase yields, and reduce agriculture's environmental impact.

Terminology
European corn borer - In its adult form, it is a nocturnal butterfly that overwinters in the soil as a caterpillar. The larvae hatch in spring and seek corn leaves for egg-laying. The most serious damage is caused by the borer feeding inside corn stalks and cobs.
Non-selective herbicides - also referred to as total herbicides, are employed to manage all weed species. They are applied both on stubble and in the field prior to harvest to ensure uniform crop maturation.
Glyphosate - an organic chemical compound from the phosphonate group, is an active ingredient in some non-selective herbicides.