Essential Tractor Attachments for Corn Harvesting

9/18/2024

Kennadi Harris

Running a small successful corn operation doesn’t require six-figure equipment to get the job done. Large commercial operations might need to invest in hefty equipment such as 8-row combines and harvesters but small farmers working on acres of 10 or less can produce high yields with a collection of efficient tractor attachments. To get your small corn operation up and running, you will need these essential attachments to get started.

Tillage Equipment

A plow is an essential tillage tool for any farmer. The purpose of this tractor attachment is to dig deep into the ground to break up hard earth and prepare fields for planting. It consists of double-ended shovels mounted on shanks that allow for deep penetration in the ground. Plowing is best practiced in the fall to manage compaction and residue.

Cultivator

When spring rolls around, more precise tillage is needed to prepare for a thriving cornfield. The cultivator prepares seedbeds for planting by digging into the ground to break up soil, mix it with the topsoil, and remove clumps and clods. This process produces a nutrient-dense seedbed for crops to thrive. Unlike plows, cultivators focus on perfecting surface soil to create an excellent field finish.

Planter

Crops such as corn require precise seeding to grow and planters ensure seeds are placed accurately with care. Planters use a vacuum system to transport seeds from a large hopper to individual hoppers for each row and place them into the ground in neat rows. There are several planters available that are tailored for fields of various sizes and topography. Mounted planters are an ideal affordable option for small farmers planting in conventional or reduced-till conditions. For producers covering a little more acreage, drawn planters are another excellent option that will give you a bit more flexibility.

Sprayer

Adding a sprayer to your operation will make crop maintenance painless and contribute to higher yields. With a sprayer, you can easily apply fertilizers and chemicals to your crops and reduce cost input by having more control of your output. Similar to planters, there are a number of sprayer options available for farmers. 

Cornheads

A combine with cornhead attachment is what is typically used to harvest large amounts of corn. Cornheads are available in several rows and spacings to accommodate fields of all sizes, however, farmers need at least 150 acres to justify needing a combine. For smaller operations, you may be able to find pull-behind harvesters for your tractor but they are rare. The alternative is picking the corn by hand. Depending on how many acres you have, many workers would be needed to get the job done.

With the proper equipment, you can optimize your corn operation to bring in high yields and minimize labor. Add these essential tractor attachments to your collection for a prosperous harvesting season. For more information on our harvesting equipment at SNPartners, contact us or visit one of our 37 locations across Missouri, Illinois, and New York.