Large flotation type tires are used on spraying equipment to facilitate spraying on the wet conditions that often occur. Spraying typically occurs from 5 to 7 times. In the spring, additional spraying for weeds, insects and foliar diseases may be required. In the spring, the plants begin to grow out of dormancy to produce a seed stalk or bolt. Roots may be harvested from other commercial fields or special nurseries planted intentionally for transplanting.
Planting can occur under very wet conditions with special transplanting equipment.
These separators push the branches back to minimize tangling of branches between the strips. This greatly aids in planting to a final stand or thinning. Fields are ready to harvest in late July to early August. Swathing of the plants is done with equipment outfitted with both horizontal and vertical cutting bars to minimize dragging of plants which could result in additional seed shattering and loss. Swathers are typically equipped with draper belts.