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Farming practices are evolving towards the sustainable development of the sector

At Rolmako, we believe that innovative machines for no-plough soil cultivation are key to sustainable agriculture, protecting our planet while enhancing farmers' efficiency and productivity globally. Healthy soil is crucial for the future of our children and grandchildren. Our cultivation technologies are designed to protect and nourish the soil, resulting in greater fertility and better crop quality, ensuring sustainable development for future generations. Together, we are building a better future for our planet, respecting nature and agricultural heritage.

In their daily fieldwork, farmers encounter increasingly challenging weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and droughts, which, in fields without plant cover, lead to soil degradation through wind or water erosion (depletion of organic matter or destruction of the lumpy structure).

Mechanical soil cultivation is increasingly problematic, as it leads to the crumbling, loosening, and increased aeration of the topsoil, accelerating mineralization and reducing humus levels. The formation of humus is supported by covering the ground surface with a dense canopy of plants or their residues, balanced crop rotation, and the use of organic fertilizers.

In such conditions, particularly acute on weaker soils, obtaining higher yields through conventional soil cultivation systems is challenging. A solution to some challenges is to switch to a simplified land cultivation model. This transition is not easy, as it requires a significant expansion of crop rotation and appropriate equipment to manage crop residues effectively.

Reducing the amount of tillage can be accomplished through various methods: by limiting the number of operations, the depth of agricultural tools, and substituting intensive tillage with less aggressive methods, such as ultra-shallow tillage. The most significant results can be achieved by replacing the plough with simplified tillage technologies.

The farm units should enable shallow cutting of the stubble to promote weed seed emergence and initiate straw decomposition through gentle soil mixing. Consequently, the land will better endure heavy rains and resist wind erosion during drought conditions.

Our tillage machines are designed with the future in mind. As a manufacturer of tillage machines, we ensure our technology supports sustainable agricultural practices, preserving the land's beauty and fertility for future generations. We believe every farmer using our machinery should recognize their role in soil quality protection. Our machines are engineered to minimize negative environmental impacts.

Deeper cultivation is required before sowing to facilitate root development and evenly distribute crop residues throughout the working depth, adhering to the rule of 2 cm working depth per ton of straw. Assess your fields and available machinery, and when considering new equipment investments, prioritize its utility in simplified tillage systems.

Below, we present a categorization of agricultural machines based on their utility within specific cultivation technologies, divided into essential, needed, potentially useful, and non-essential devices in a given land management system.

Let us examine the strengths and weaknesses of each machine.

Machines on the tractor's front three-point linkage

Various rollers crumbling the soil in front of the seeder, tine cultivators, or disc harrows destroying catch crops significantly enhance the functionality of a tractor equipped with a front three-point linkage. These tools not only improve the efficiency and speed of field work but also ballast the tractor. When selecting machines for the front three-point linkage, it is important to consider the optimal working speed of the main machine attached to the rear three-point linkage. The objective is to achieve satisfactory performance from both machines, such as a cultivator and a disc harrow. The capability to operate in plough or simplified cultivation conditions depends on the chosen working elements. Rolmako offers the most comprehensive range of machines for the tractor's front three-point linkage.

Knife roller

Its primary function is managing stubble, especially post-corn harvest, aiding in the control of corn borer larvae residing in stalks. Additionally, it supports the shredding and preparation of catch crops for further treatments. Depending on the version, it is available with one or two rollers, featuring either straight or rounded blades positioned transversely to the direction of travel. In challenging conditions, additional ballast can be utilized. The quality of organic matter processing depends on its condition and the chosen working speed; higher speeds result in greater shredding intensity. Rolmako offers rigid knife rollers under the trade name ProCut and foldable TurboCut variants. The machines can be equipped with optional spiral knives for optimal cross-cutting effect.

Mulch harrow

The straight 16 mm thick fingers, arranged in five rows, are responsible for tearing off the straw left after harvest, evenly distributing it, and gently mixing it with the top soil layer. The machine operates optimally at high speeds, above 15 km/h, and often utilizes additional accessories, such as disc coulters, knife rollers, or the Crossboard drag, to enhance processing effectiveness. The applied working elements, with a large gap between rows, accommodate substantial residue and are suitable for spring grassland maintenance. The Rolmako SpringExpert mulch harrow is essential for stubble processing in all simplified cultivation systems.

Harrow - Finger weeder

A lightweight tool with thin, flexible fingers designed to gently loosen soil and destroy weed seedlings. It is suitable for cultivating grains, vegetables, potatoes, beets, or corn regardless of the cultivation system. The ActiVAgro models proposed by Rolmako feature mechanical and/or hydraulic pressure adjustment systems for the tines, allowing the working depth to be adjusted according to the plantation's condition (weediness) and soil moisture.

Rotary Harrow - Weeder

Its function, akin to the finger weeder, is to thoroughly mix the top layer of soil up to a depth of 2 cm. The steel working elements mounted on the 540 mm diameter rotor are designed to loosen the soil, prevent evaporation or crusting of the drainage surfaces, and remove weeds. The machine is utilized in the cultivation of cereals, vegetables, or corn, irrespective of the cultivation system. The Matrix rotary harrow is also effective in ultra-shallow soil cultivation in the initial post-harvest crops, aimed at encouraging self-seeding and weed germination, and enhancing straw decomposition in the field.

Disc harrow

The Rolmako U693 disc harrow, a widely-used tool in post-harvest cultivation, is available in a compact version (featuring a smaller disc diameter of 510 mm and a shorter distance between disc rows). It is compatible with both trailed or mounted seeders, which is an advantage. However, when used independently, it offers limited throughput of plant matter and soil, particularly at high speeds above 10 km/h. Under such conditions, the Rolmako U652, U671, or SpeedCutter disc harrow—each equipped with two rows of discs spaced 105 cm apart—receives more favorable reviews. The drawback of these models is their incompatibility with seeders. They perform well in simplified cultivation fields with substantial post-harvest residue. For highly demanding crops, particularly with corn, the heavy model U671 disc harrow is most effective due to the significant pressure of its discs on the soil. Ultra-shallow soil cultivation is best achieved with the SpeedCutter disc harrow, designed for intensive post-harvest surface treatment.

Multi-beam cultivator for stubble cultivation/deep cultivation

A universal tool suitable for both shallow and deep soil cultivation. Depending on the working elements/coulters used, we can achieve shallow undercutting of the stubble and mixing of residues (goosefoot) or deep loosening up to 35 cm (straight chisels). Three-beam structures are optimal, ensuring effective mass flow between distant tines, such as the Rolmako U436 no-plough cultivator. Two-beam versions are designed for smaller tractors, such as the Rolmako U453 stubble cultivator, though with lower throughput. Post-configuration, the cultivator can be employed in both ploughing and simplified cultivation variants. It is effective for stubble processing or mixing crop residues and manure with the soil. Rolmako also offers a four-beam cultivator, the U497, which serves as a universal pre-sowing and stubble cultivator.

Rolmako assists farmers in making informed decisions. Our cultivation machines represent modernity, efficiency, durability, and the trust we build with you. By choosing Rolmako, you invest in high yields, reliable equipment, and a sustainable future for your farm.

Cultivator with simultaneous spreading of fertilizer

This multi-beam cultivator incorporates additional equipment in the form of fertilizer dispensers mounted on the coulters. This equipment allows for precise fertilizer application at depths ranging from several to approximately a dozen centimeters, ensuring effective use by plants. It requires coordination with a fertilizer seeder, which feeds the coulters via flexible hoses through the distribution head. Depending on the version, fertilizer can be applied at two depths simultaneously. Rolmako installs the APV fertilizer seeder, compatible with the U436 three-beam cultivator.

Subsoiler

A straightforward tool designed for extensive soil loosening, reaching depths of 35 to 60 cm, depending on the subsoiler model and the capabilities of its working elements. Constructed with a robust frame, Rolmako devices come in various versions with different working components. Rolmako subsoilers are offered with a straight tine, a lower undercutter, or a deflected cutting plane, known as the Michel tine. Operating a subsoiler, which leads to high fuel consumption and necessitates high-power tractors, should be considered only under specific conditions, such as after identifying the plough sole or significant soil compaction (e.g., in technological paths). Additionally, the conditions for the effective execution of the procedure are crucial, typically when the soil is slightly dry, often in the post-harvest period. In such conditions, the soil clumps disrupted by the subsoiler tine will create new air spaces conducive to water infiltration. It is imperative to avoid operating the subsoiler in excessively moist conditions, which can lead to the opposite effect—increased compaction, soil structure sticking, and restricted air and water exchange in the soil.

Plough

A tool prevalent in the Polish agricultural sector, used for loosening, mixing, and turning the topsoil. The plough bodies, equipped with blades, cut and turn the soil, preventing uniform mixing. Prolonged ploughing at a consistent depth can lead to excessive subsoil compaction and the formation of a plough sole.

Chisel plough

This is a type of multi-beam cultivator that operates at an increased working depth of up to 65 cm (breaking the plough sole). It enables soil mixing and surface cultivation up to 25 cm deep (unlike a subsoiler) and deepened cultivation after removing the side loosening wings. Unlike multi-beam cultivators, the chisel plough has a working tine design that minimizes working resistance at great depths. The intensity of organic residue mixing with the soil depends on the speed. For fields with large residues at depths over 25 cm (speed below 9 km/h), preceding cultivation with a disc harrow is advisable to reduce clogging. Rolmako offers 3 models of chisel ploughs, differing mainly in weight. The heavy version can operate up to 65 cm deep, while lighter models can work up to 45 cm deep.

Pre-sowing cultivation unit with tine cultivator, active harrow, or disc harrow

The machine is used to obtain a substrate for sowing or planting at varying depths (several to a dozen or so centimeters, depending on the crop). A tine cultivator supported by front and rear rollers can be employed for this purpose. For an active (rotary) or disc harrow, only the rear roller is used to maintain depth and compaction. The tine version is effective in ploughed cultivation with minimal crop residue in the top layer, where soil drying is a concern. A set with a cultivator and active harrow performs poorly in simplified cultivation systems. The active harrow's advantage is in fragmenting compact soils that are excessively dried after ploughing. A disc harrow is a relatively universal solution, performing well in both simplified systems and after ploughing.

Seeder with disc/shoe coulter

Regarding soil cultivation and seed placement, seed drills are primarily classified based on their coulter type: shoe or disc coulters. In the shoe coulter variant, the soil is spread by a steel body, whereas, in the disc coulter variant, the soil is cut and spread by a coulter disc working at an angle. We distinguish between single-disc and double-disc coulters. Currently, most seed drills are equipped with disc coulters, which offer greater versatility, enabling operation in both plough and simplified cultivation conditions.

Aftercrop seeder

A mechanical or pneumatic seeder with a tank typically not exceeding 800 liters can operate independently but is most often mounted on a cultivator in a tine or disc version. It is utilized for sowing fine or coarse-seeded cover crops/cover crop mixtures or grasses. The sowing shaft drive operates electrically or hydraulically.

Work is the heart of our agriculture, and we, as the manufacturer of tillage machines Rolmako, support it at every stage of the process. We assist farmers in achieving higher yields and crop quality while minimizing the impact on soil and the natural environment. Therefore, when we see a farmer in the field, we see our partner in safeguarding the future of crops and our planet. Together, we strive for sustainable agriculture that provides healthy food and protects the land. This is our mission, our passion—this is farming with Rolmako.

Slurry disc applicator

A tool used to simultaneously loosen the soil with a two-row disc harrow and apply slurry, significantly reducing ammonia emissions into the atmosphere. This is achieved using an applicator with a distribution head mounted above, connected by a flexible pressure hose to the tank of the slurry tanker. The disc harrow used in the applicator allows work regardless of the condition of the field surface, including the amount of crop residue.

Pre-sowing/post-sowing roller

A tool of straightforward construction featuring a single, typically cast iron, heavy roller. Its function is to crumble or compact the soil before or after sowing. It is most commonly used in plough cultivation to help mitigate erosion. Rolmako offers a full range of rollers, including Cambridge, prismatic ORION, steel, and Campbell.

Seedbed cultivator with tine cultivator, active harrow, or disc harrow

One of the most commonly utilized sowing configurations on large farms employing simplified cultivation involves a large tank for seeds and fertilizer mounted on the cultivation tool, facilitating fertilizer application. This combination enables high-efficiency cultivation and sowing in a single pass.

Cultivator, seeder, strip tillage unit

This machine is designed to cultivate a narrow strip of soil in a single pass. It employs independently suspended cultivation sections, which typically include components for spreading crop residues, a cultivation tine with fertilizer application capabilities, and a sowing section. Most manufacturers provide machines for single-stage strip cultivation and sowing, while some offer separate solutions, performing a cultivation pass first, followed by a sowing pass after a few days or weeks.

Direct seeder

This machine is designed for single-pass minimal cultivation and sowing. It features a front-mounted knife roller for shredding catch crops or crop residues. The primary components are the disc coulters, which cut the soil and facilitate the introduction of a disc seed coulter. Different manufacturers offer various equipment versions (fertilizer spreader), shapes of working elements, and control options. The tank permits the simultaneous sowing of one or multiple plant species.

Below, we present a categorization of agricultural machines based on their utility within specific cultivation technologies, divided into essential, needed, potentially useful, and non-essential devices in a given land management system.

++ essential + required +/- potentially beneficial - unnecessary

SOWING IN PLOWING CULTIVATION
SIMPLIFIED SURFACE CULTIVATION
STRIP-TILL SIMPLIFIED CULTIVATION
DIRECT SOWING NO-TILL

Let us examine the strengths and weaknesses of each machine.

VARIOUS FACES OF SIMPLIFICATIONS

After deciding to abandon ploughing, the first step should be simplified cultivation of the entire surface. This allows for many benefits from a simplified cultivation system, often using available disc harrows, cultivators, or multi-purpose units on the farm. Only in subsequent seasons, after mastering the simplified method of cultivation and sowing—first stabilizing and then increasing yields—should further possibilities be considered, such as strip or direct technology sowing. These methods require additional investments in specialized machinery or expenses for services.

The history of Rolmako lies in the cultivated field. Here begins our mission of protecting the environment and soil. For our brand, caring for the earth is not merely an obligation but also a deep passion and commitment to the planet. We recognize it as a valuable resource that provides food and life to many organisms. We focus on developing environmentally friendly machines that reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Our company invests in modern technologies that enable energy savings and minimize the impact on the climate.

Therefore, it is crucial to select appropriate cultivation technology for different soils to enhance organic matter content and water retention capacity. The effectiveness of water and fertilizer use is contingent upon soil condition. It is essential to recognize the differences among various land types, understand our fields, and be aware of their inherent limitations.

The advantage of simplified cultivation techniques

Research from various scientific institutions, including the University of Life Sciences in Poznań, unequivocally indicates that simplified cultivation better endures prolonged drought compared to plowing systems while generating higher yields. The issue of retaining water in the soil is crucial for most plants sown in spring, particularly corn, which is often grown on light and medium soils with lower water capacity and poorer capillary rise. In such conditions, proper site preparation for sowing requires special attention. The situation is similar for sugar beets, which, despite being grown on better sites, also suffer from water shortages in the spring. For similar reasons, there is a decline in spring cereal sowing in the country, often forced to sow in the spring after the late harvest of corn or beets. Consequently, an increasing number of farms are opting for simplifications in the cultivation of cereals, beets, and corn.

Rolmako is a manufacturer of tillage machines and a principled company dedicated to creating a better, more ecological world. Together, we can protect soil from degradation, maintain its fertility, and ensure future generations have access to healthy food while preserving harmony with nature. Rolmako advocates ultra-shallow and no-plough farming techniques, benefiting both farmers and the environment. The company's philosophy emphasizes creating conditions for farms to achieve profitability and effectively thrive.

Reducing evaporation is one of the fundamental benefits of simplified cultivation. Practically, farmers often forego plowing in favor of deep (approx. 15 cm) soil loosening using a disc harrow or cultivator. In the simplified approach, basic deep cultivation, which loosens the soil and accelerates the decomposition of organic residues, should be carried out in autumn. The depth and method of cultivation are chosen based on the amount of residues. A disc harrow is more effective for handling catch crops and unmulched residues. Ideally, the residues should cover about 30% of the field surface after passing. When incorporating well-processed manure into the soil, a cultivator is recommended.

The challenge is to prepare a field covered with a tall catch crop. It is advisable to destroy it before winter to enhance the effect of freezing and facilitate spring treatments. If the stalks freeze adequately, cultivation at 10 cm will suffice in spring. Otherwise, a knife roller, mulcher, or disc harrow must be used earlier. Ensure to enter the field as early as possible to limit soil drying.

In pre-sowing cultivation during dry years, treatments should be limited to shallow passes (to the depth of sowing) to conserve water. This approach controls weeds, improves soil heating, and limits evaporation. The choice of roller is crucial. If it's dry, a full roller should press the soil. For drying and heating the soil, a string roller or Crosskill is preferable.

Occasionally, sowing must occur under highly humid conditions (autumn or spring), where cultivators, disc harrows, and possibly ploughs assist in drying the seed layer. It is crucial to avoid entering the field prematurely when the soil is heavily saturated with water. In these conditions, working elements excessively accumulate soil, and the rollers compact the soil, hindering the drying process.

An alternative to simplified full-surface cultivation that receives excellent reviews, including on sites with catch crops and a large amount of residue, is strip sowing. This technology has quickly been adopted on many farms, particularly in the cultivation of cereals, corn, rapeseed, or beets. Typically, during one pass, deep loosening of the processed strip of land (up to 30 cm), fertilization (at multiple depths simultaneously), and sowing into moist soil are performed. These aggregates are expensive, requiring a high pulling force, at least 100 HP/m of the machine's working width. Less popular is the method of separate cultivation, in which a pass is first made with the cultivation section dosing mineral fertilizer or slurry, followed by sowing after a few days. This, however, requires very precise GPS guidance. Strip-till is not a cure-all, and to achieve the intended effects with this technology, several conditions must be met. This method of cultivation and sowing is primarily suited for farmers who already use simplifications and on soils covered with catch crops. Narrow strip cultivation conserves water, but its disadvantage is that the soil (especially heavy soil) warms up more slowly before sowing, affecting the sowing date, e.g., for beets. According to reports from farmers and service providers, on lighter and medium-compact soils, strip sowing of beets or corn is feasible without problems. On heavy and more humid sites, practitioners opt for shallow cultivation with a disc harrow or a unit to loosen and warm the top layer. When heavy soil is too moist, it will be difficult to close the seed gap, resulting in uneven emergence and population. In dry years, herbicide residues from the previous year play a significant role in strip cultivation. This must be considered, but it is also important to precisely calculate the minimum necessary dose of plant protection chemicals and fertilizers, which maintains biodiversity in the immediate vicinity of cultivated fields.

Why is soil protection important? Soil is not only the foundation for agricultural crops but also a complex ecosystem supporting numerous organisms. Therefore, we ensure our machines are optimized to minimize soil erosion while maintaining its structure and ability to absorb water and nutrients. Our innovative solutions help farmers effectively cultivate crops while reducing the negative environmental impact.

When selecting other technologies, it is important to focus on sowing catch crops for mulch. Catch crops sown in autumn (such as peas and phacelia) protect the soil from losing significant amounts of nutrients during winter. During spring, as they mineralize, they become a good source of nutrients. Beetroot will absorb these nutrients during the following weeks of vegetation. Sowing catch crops also serves as an alternative to the lack of manure. Direct sowing is not one of the most popular methods of sowing; it requires investment in modern equipment and proper field preparation, which must be managed during the harvest of the previous crop. The combine must evenly distribute the straw residues over the entire working width. In the case of monoculture sowing, it is necessary to use a mulcher, which facilitates the decomposition of residues and combats the borer. This trend is only just developing in Poland.

WHEN PLOWING?

If we must plow for corn and beets, it is best done in the fall. This allows ample time if we aim to shape capillaries that enable water seepage. The plow can also be indispensable when we want to mix large amounts of post-harvest residues into the soil, particularly with a high yield of organic matter. In that case, spring treatments are limited to early harrowing (to stop evaporation, level the surface, warm the soil, eliminate weeds), and before sowing to shallow cultivation (eliminate weeds, mix fertilizers). If plowing is necessary, it should be done with a heavy roller, such as a Campbell, which compacts well and reduces moisture loss.

In practice, some farmers, due to limited storage capacity, apply manure in the spring. This is not optimal, mainly due to the risk of excessive soil drying and insufficient utilization of the manure by plants. In such cases, the best solutions are disc harrows or cultivators, which dry the soil less but mix the well-processed manure effectively.

CULTIVATION WITH FERTILIZATION

Cultivation technology is continuously advancing, as demonstrated by increasingly precise machines that enable the effective application of nutrients through precise fertilization. The more accurate the fertilization and the smaller the losses, the more we save on fertilizers. The modern cultivator's cultivation section offers the advantage of depositing fertilizer under the root, tailored to the root system, at one or two depths. This approach maximizes potential and reduces plant losses. Rolmako U436 no-till cultivators facilitate such precise fertilization. It is worth noting that this method also allows for the application of slurry, an important alternative to mineral fertilizers.

All cultivation and sowing technologies are effective, with success on a given farm primarily dependent on selecting appropriate machinery and adapting it to field conditions. Of the widely used crops, beets and corn are most sensitive to the effects of introduced simplifications and, consequently, to sowing conditions. Simplified cultivation should therefore adhere to the principle: as intensively as needed, but as minimally as possible.

Each crop is a testament to hard work and the selection of the right tools. With Rolmako cultivation machines, farmers can enjoy abundant and high-quality crops. Our products help farmers fully exploit the potential of their land, ensuring each sowing brings abundant harvests. The cultivation solutions proposed by Rolmako allow for precise soil cultivation, translating into better conditions for plants and higher yields. We offer equipment that not only makes work easier but also increases its efficiency, allowing farmers to achieve the best possible results.

No-plough farming, why with Rolmako?

No-plough tillage is an increasingly popular agricultural practice contributing to sustainable land management. By choosing Rolmako tillage machines for no-plough tillage, farmers make a wise decision for many reasons. Our devices are distinguished by their innovation, quality, and ability to minimize the impact on the natural environment.

Our machines are the culmination of years of engineering advancements, tailored to address the demands of contemporary agriculture. Investing in Rolmako equipment ensures efficiency, reliability, and innovative solutions that safeguard natural resources and the environment. Our machines are engineered to enhance yields while reducing effort and costs for farmers.

Soil protection: Rolmako machines are engineered to minimize soil erosion, thereby protecting soil structure, preventing degradation, and maintaining fertility for many years.

Efficiency and savings: Our machines are resource-efficient, leading to time and fuel savings. Farmers can enhance productivity while reducing operating costs.

Minimization of greenhouse gas emissions: Rolmako is investing in modern technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural work. Our machines are more environmentally friendly, supporting sustainable development goals.

Technical support and service: Our company provides professional technical support and service to ensure the trouble-free operation of Rolmako machines for many years.

Sustainability: By choosing Rolmako machines for no-plough cultivation, farmers are investing in the sustainable development of their farms. Our products and business practices align with long-term environmental protection goals.

In summary, Rolmako tillage machines are an excellent choice for farmers practicing no-plough cultivation. Our products are distinguished by quality, efficiency, and care for the protection of the land and the environment. By choosing Rolmako, farmers invest in the future of their farm and contribute to sustainable agriculture.

In which direction is Rolmako heading?

The joy of work is our inspiration. Each Rolmako tillage machine is designed to protect the farmer's most precious asset - their land. Our tillage equipment ensures fieldwork is effective and safe, allowing the beauty of agriculture to be enjoyed without stress. Our tillage machines simplify daily tasks for farmers, providing peace of mind and making fieldwork a source of satisfaction and pride. The true joy of farming lies in the harmony between efficiency and respect for the land we cultivate.

No-plough soil cultivation, ultra-shallow cultivation, and the advancement of sowing technology are the primary development focuses for Rolmako in the coming years. Our company is dedicated to enhancing and adapting the cultivation machines we produce to these innovative agricultural practices. We believe these directions represent the future of sustainable agriculture, enabling farmers to achieve efficiency and effectiveness while minimizing environmental impact. Continuous efforts in developing and adapting our products to these main directions will enable farmers to achieve superior results, providing the tools for sustainable success in agriculture.

For generations, the land has reflected hard work, dedication, and passion. Our tillage machines symbolize a continuous journey – from tradition to innovation, from the past to the future. Rolmako shares its over 40 years of experience and expertise with you to support you in every growing season.