A simple question about converting a disc to an aeration tool sparked a heated discussion on the No-Till Farmer message board this month. No-tillers gave their thoughts about making this conversion and also the compaction problems that can go along with no-tilling in cold, wet soils.

Another interesting debate dealt with the 6000 series White no-till planter. No-tillers gave their impressions on this piece of equipment as well as discussing the effectiveness of this particular planter.

With a little extra time on their hands, no-tillers have been actively utilizing the Farmer’s Forum during this winter season. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to interact with fellow intelligent no-tillers like yourself.

Converting To Coulters.

I’ve seen articles about converting a disc to a surface aeration tool when surface residues are keeping the soil cool and wet in the spring. Has anyone made the conversion or has anyone used any tool for lifting residue?

Does anyone have information on where to find coulters punched to slide on disc axles? Would this tool stir the soil enough in freshly harvested corn stalks to incorporate turkey litter and/or place cover crop seed deep enough to germinate?

—Richard Central MO,
drelliot@planetsos.com

My father-in-law and I converted an old John Deere 220 disc to a “fluffer” with wavy coulters. We bought the coulters at C.F.C. Distributors in Roann, Ind. (1-800-548-6633).

If we had to do it again, we would find a heavier disc. It just doesn’t penetrate the soil as much as we would like. We…