It’s that time of year when the combines are still hard at work on the cereals, dodging the showers and trying to prepare ground for the winter and cover crops. This week, I will be talking through the wide range of cultivation equipment that Horsch can provide, more specifically the Horsch Joker RT. Over the last three years, we have noticed a large increase in those purchasing cultivation equipment due to brief weather windows, the ground needs to be covered quickly and efficiently to keep the drill moving. The Horsch Joker is a fantastic cultivator for preparing the ground for a power harrow drill, such as the Horsch KR or even the Horsch Avatar. 

Main Features of the Horsch Joker RT 

Design  

The Horsch Joker RT features a compact and robust frame, enhancing durability and stability throughout use. Its design allows for easy transport and quick adjustments, making it highly manoeuvrable on various terrains. The Horsch Joker RT is available in several working widths, ensuring all sizes of farming operations are catered for.  

Width options:

  • The Joker RT’s working width ranges from 5.15m on the Joker 5 RT, to 12.25m on the Joker 12 RT. 
  • The Joker RT’s transport height ranges from 3.18m to 4m across the 6-model range.  

Disc System 

The Horsch Joker RT is equipped with large, serrated discs that are independently mounted. This configuration allows each disc to adapt to the contours of the field, providing consistent soil penetration and mixing. The serrated edges ensure efficient cutting through crop residues, clods, and even tough soil.  

The discs are angled and spaced optimally to create a fine tilth, which is ideal for seedbed preparation. This spacing prevents blockages and ensures a uniform soil structure across the entire working width. 

Benefits: 

  • Aggressive Tillage: The Joker RT’s discs are designed to work at high speeds, up to 20km/h, which is crucial for intensive soil engagement. This speed allows for effective mixing of soil and residues, promoting rapid decomposition and enhancing soil fertility. 
  • Shallow and Deep Tillage: The depth of the tillage can be easily adjusted, allowing the Joker RT to perform both shallow and deeper soil cultivation. This versatility makes it suitable for different crops and soil conditions.  

Depth Control and Precision 

The Horsch Joker RT is equipped with a precise depth control system. Operators can adjust the working depth hydraulically, ensuring that the machine can adapt to varying field conditions without compromising performance.  

Roller Options 

Featuring various roller options, the Horsch Joker range includes options such as: 

  • SteelDisc roller: Ideal for hardest conditions, stony soils, large clods, and fields that require deep consolidation.  
  • Double RollPack: Ideal for light and medium sites. Due to its large rings and the low machine weight, it has a large contact are and ensures excellent consolidation. 
  • RollFlex Packer: Ensures a high reliability on changing soils even in wet conditions.  

Benefits of the Horsch Joker RT  

  • Versatility: The Horsch Joker RT can be used for multiple applications, such as stubble cultivation, seedbed preparation, cover crop management, and residue incorporation. This makes it an invaluable tool for farmers looking to maximise efficiency and reduce the number of field passes. 
  • Durability: Designed to withstand the rigors of continuous use in challenging conditions, the Horsch Joker RT is built with heavy duty components. This includes high-quality bearings, durable disc arms, and robust hydraulic systems. 
  • Low Maintenance: The machine is engineered for low maintenance, with features like sealed bearings and easy-to-access service points, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
  • User-Friendly: The Joker RT is equipped with user-friendly controls, allowing operators to make quick adjustments on the go. The hydraulic systems and monitoring tools provide real-time feedback, ensuring optimal performance. 

The Horsch Joker RT is a state-of-the-art disc harrow that combines speed, efficiency, and precision. Its robust design, versatile applications, and advanced features make it an essential tool for modern farming practices. Whether it is preparing a fine seedbed, incorporating crop residues, or managing soil structure, the Joker RT delivers consistent, high-quality results, making it a valuable investment for any farming operation.  

If you would like to find out more about the Horsch range at Scot Agri, please contact your local depot!