Arable farming heavily relies on mechanisation, especially when done on a large scale. Modern agricultural machinery is a high-value investment that needs to be properly insured. Commonly used equipment includes:
Tractors. The workhorses of arable farms, these versatile machines are used for many tasks, including ploughing, harrowing, planting, spraying, and harvesting.
Seed drills. These are used to plant seeds at the desired depth and spacing. Seed drills help to ensure uniform seed distribution, improve germination, and assist crop growth. This type of equipment also helps to conserve seeds and reduce waste.
Harvesters. These specialised machines are designed to cut and gather crops efficiently during harvest time. Different types of harvesters are used for specific crops, such as combine harvesters for cereal crops, potato harvesters for potatoes, and vegetable harvesters for various vegetables. These machines speed up the harvesting process and reduce the amount of labour required.
Sprayers. These apply fertilisers, herbicides, and pesticides to arable crops. Sprayers ensure precise and uniform application, helping to control weeds, pests, and diseases. Modern sprayers often use advanced technologies, such as GPS guidance systems, to improve accuracy and reduce chemical wastage.
Irrigation systems. In arable farming, irrigation is crucial for ensuring adequate water supply to crops, especially during dry periods. Various irrigation systems are available, including sprinkler systems and equipment that delivers drip irrigation or centre-pivot irrigation. These systems help reduce water usage while enhancing crop growth.
Grain storage and handling equipment. Arable farms require machinery and equipment for grain storage and handling. Grain dryers, elevators, conveyors, and silos are used to safely store harvested crops and transport them for processing or sale.