Garden tractors can,
of course, be used to advantage in almost any garden, but for most
efficient use of tractor power, certain provisions should be made in
laying out the garden plan
1. Make garden long and narrow to provide long rows for tractor plowing,
seedbed preparation and cultivation. A good proportion is half as wide as
it is long - 50 by 100 feet, or 75 by 150 feet, for example.
2. Run rows east and west (preferably) so tall crops like corn can be
placed on north side to avoid shading smaller crops.
3. Locate garden where enclosing fence is not necessary, if possible,
or where ends are quickly removable, to simplify working with power
equipment.
4. Leave 6 to 10 feet of headlands at each end, to provide turning room
for the tractor at the end of rows. Headlands should be seeded to grass or
cultivated to control weeds.
5. Select level ground. Tractor equipment will work better and can
cultivate closer to small plants. On sloping land, run rows across the
slope on the contour.
6. Avoid low spots. They stay wet while higher ground is ready to work,
thus hampering tractor operations. Low areas also frost late in spring and
early in fall.
7. Select well-drained area, for more efficient tractor operation and
to produce greater yields.
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8. Choose rich,
friable loam - it's easier to plow and cultivate, and grows better crops.
Heavy clay soils can be built up with manure and sand, and soil
conditioners used where cost is economical.
9. Select dark deep soils without tight clay subsoil. Dark soils are
high in organic matter and easier worked, except for clays.
10. Provide "sweet" or slightly acid soils. Test for limestone
and other mineral deficiencies.
11. Locate garden close to house and tractor equipment storage. Saves
steps, makes it easier to use power equipment at the right time.
12. Place garden away from trees. They rob the soil of minerals and
water, and shade the crop. Where trees cannot be avoided, prune lower
branches, fertilize heavily and irrigate crops.
13. Provide full sunlight. Don't let buildings or trees shade the garden
area.
14. Give a southern exposure. Ground will dry out more quickly in the
spring, so garden may be started earlier, and crops mature faster.
15. Protect the garden by buildings or windbreaks on the"
north. This also helps crops mature earlier.
16. Consider irrigating with power equipment. Supplying water during
dry periods will often double the yield. |
