Optimisation of cultural practices for efficient mechanical harvesting : SRDC Final report BS20S

Abstract

Some progress has already been made in identifying field conditions and practices which lead to high dirt levels. These include lodged cane, wet field conditions and cutting with the harvester basecutter below ground level. The project aimed to extend on these findings by looking at varietal factors contributing to lodging and stool tipping, and cultural practices which lead to harvester operators cutting below ground level. The aim was to develop alternative practices to minimise dirt problems. This included investigation of the effect of row spacing on row profiles in ratoon crops.