How to Use a Subsoiler

Crop growers use a subsoiler for deep tillage in compacted ground. When the soil compacts from heavy loads passing over the ground, water drainage and plant growth suffer. It's a temporary fix requiring possible yearly use in problematic soil or a change in soil management.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Subsoiler
• Shovel
• Tractor
• Steel rod
• Penetrometer

1. Use a subsoiler in the fall on dry or lightly moist soil.
2. Dig several holes in the planting area to confirm the soil has low water infiltration or restricted rooting. Examine if roots grew sideways at their base due to compaction.
3. Attach the subsoiler to a tractor. See instructions for particular model.
4. Plan for deep tillage by setting the subsoiler's point 1 to 2 inches below the compacted soil layer.
5. Space the subsoiler's shanks closer for narrow rows and wider for wider row spacing.
6. Prepare the field in the same manner as under normal conditions.

Tips & Warnings

• A subsoiler's deep tillage of the ground provides an environment for crops that grow in deep tilled soil. Plan the crops accordingly.
• Tap a steel rod into the ground to measure the depth to compacted soil or use a penetrometer as alternative means to digging holes.
• Consider soil management to alleviate compaction problems. Staying off the field when it's wet and lessening heavy loads when moving across the area.
• Use a row subsoiler for less ground disturbance. Choose shanks based on straight, parabolic and bent. See a local farm dealer for selection and job performance.
• Avoid further compacting with extra tractor passes across the field.
• Never use a subsoiler where the soil isn't compacted. There's no added benefit and you risk damaging the soil's structure.