After the wheat harvest: 6 tips for afterwards

The wheat harvest has begun and will continue until August at the latest. But as soon as the machines stop, the work continues – because after the harvest is before the harvest.

Here are six practical tips for the time after threshing:

1. Don’t forget machine maintenance

Thoroughly clean combine harvesters, trailers and implements and check for wear or damage. Early maintenance prevents breakdowns next year.

2. check grain storage

Keep moisture below 14 per cent and dry the grain if necessary. Check storage regularly for pests and ventilation.

3. utilise straw sensibly

Press straw and drive it away or incorporate it directly into the field. Ensure sufficient nitrogen supply during incorporation.

4. plan soil cultivation

Shallow cultivating promotes the germination of volunteer cereals and weeds – an important step in weed control.

5. carry out soil analyses

Take soil samples now in order to be able to fertilise or lime in a targeted manner. This ensures the nutrient supply for the next crop.

6. plan early

Now is the right time to think about variety selection, crop rotation and catch crops. Typical crops after wheat are, for example, winter rape, spring barley, maize or legumes such as field beans. Intercrops can also help to improve the soil structure and bind nutrients.

The work after the harvest is crucial for success in the coming year. Good preparation pays off – because after the harvest is before the harvest.