Further widening the versatility of its roller range, HE-VA is set to introduce the option of straw tines for its ever-popular Tip Rollers.
Ideal for creating consolidated stale seedbeds ahead of drilling, the addition of two rows of sprung finger tines can turn a set of rolls into a true multi-purpose machine, capable of helping growers reduce their reliance on chemicals in combating pest and weed problems.
As well as being put to work in their conventional role for seedbed consolidation, Tip Rollers equipped with straw tines can be used following the combine to evenly spread and break up crop residues, prompting more rapid breakdown.
At the same time the tines’ action can help to generate a fine surface tilth which, when consolidated by the heavy roller rings, produces ideal conditions to get weed seeds to germinate.
In addition, the aggressive stirring action of tines disturbs and disrupts slug activity, destroying clutches of eggs before they hatch.
Following initial cultivation passes, the heavy-duty Tip Rollers can also be put to work pre-drilling with the new harrow option providing shallow soil movement to generate a surface tilth. Rows of breaker rings then provide a firming action and a corrugated, weather-proof finish ready for the drill.
Mounted on a hydraulically activated toolbar directly ahead of the roller rings, the twin rows of 16mm diameter straw harrow tines can then be lifted out of work for conventional post-drilling seedbed consolidation work.
A uniform firming action and consistent seed-to-soil contact is guaranteed regardless of undulations thanks to HE-VA’s clever hydraulic weight transfer system that ensures even downforce across the entire working width of the machine.
Commenting James Woolway, managing director of OPICO said: ‘The key focus of many arable farmers is to prevent slug damage and minimise blackgrass, ideally without the additional cost of pesticides. These new straw tines can be brought into use with the Tip Roller after drilling to destroy slug eggs before establishment and to encourage blackgrass to chit.’
Initially successfully launched in 2017 on only the Tip Roller XL, the double straw tines are now available as an optional extra on 6.3m, 7.3m, 8.2m and 9.5m Tip Rolls as well as 12.3m and 15.3m Tip XL Rolls models. Prices start from £7,422.
