Starting a new farm is hard work, no matter your level of experience. In a state like Ohio, where agriculture is a cornerstone and weather is unpredictable, you can never be too prepared. Here’s our basic equipment guide to getting your new farm off the ground.
A tractor is the backbone of your farm. If you’re just starting out and working on smaller acreage, a utility tractor may be ideal for its versatility and ease of use. This will be your daily driver for all things plowing, tilling, planting, and hauling, so you’ll want to do your research and be sure that your tractor is suitable for your acreage. 40-60 horsepower should handle small to medium-sized farms, but give us a call to discuss the specifics, and we’ll help narrow down your options.
Click here to browse John Deere 5 Series utility tractors
Soil preparation is the key to successful planting and harvesting. Without healthy soil, the whole operation will be weak. The best plow for you will be dependent on the condition of your soil. For bottomland with minimal stones, a moldboard plow is a great option. With root- or stone-heavy soil, a disk plow will be a better choice. A rotary tiller is great for final seedbed preparation.
The most efficient planting tools will depend mostly on what crops you’re working with. For small grains, a broadcast spreader will do the trick. For larger seeds like corn and beans, you’ll need a row planter. Again, it’s important to know ahead of time that your equipment is compatible with your tractor. A row planter will require a higher PTO power than a broadcast spreader.
We already said it - Ohio’s climate can be tough to predict. This makes reliable and efficient irrigation systems more important than ever. A drip irrigation system is more water-efficient and perfectly suitable for fruit and vegetable farms. An overhead sprinkler system will cover more ground and is ideal for larger fields.
Whether or not you’re keeping livestock, you’re going to need sturdy fencing to protect both the animals and the crops.
Livestock handling equipment like feeders, waterers, and shelters will help to ensure the health and safety of your animals.
Tractors and farming equipment are expensive investments, but with the right care and maintenance, they’ll last you through years of hard work. Having proper storage space to keep all of your equipment out of the elements is a non-negotiable.
This one may seem obvious, but working on a farm comes with a lot of risks. Simple precautions like safety gloves and glasses can help to mitigate any unnecessary dangers.
John Deere is continually innovating the industry of agriculture by introducing newer and more efficient technologies. Making the investment in Precision Ag software can help track crops, better understand yields and profits, and monitor weather patterns.
Click here to learn more about Precision Ag
So, starting a farm in Ohio can be intimidating, but you’re in good hands. We’ve got experts here at Koenig Equipment who are ready to help - and you’re surrounded by farmers who know a thing or two about our landscape. Call or visit your nearest dealer to get the conversation started.