Residue decomposition
The Normandie evenly distributes crop residues and organic matter in the surface layer.
The soil is enriched as organic matter is added by the humified residue and earth mixture.Self-seeding
When the Normandie passes with a depth no more than 5 cm, it creates conditions conducive to weed emergence by encouraging soil-seed contact.
Seed stock lifting is dependent on soil moisture and the choice of the roller. Once germinated, a final pass destroys weed emergence and reduces the surface seed stock by about 40%.Pest control
The Normandie destroys adult pests and eggs on the surface.
Slugs and insects are eliminated by either mechanical action or surface dehydration.Soil warming
All seeds need balanced conditions to germinate: water, air, heat and soil. With each pass, the Normandie brings moisture from the lower layer and aerates the soil. The soil then warms in the sun.
The independent disc harrow thus provides the conditions for rapid germination which in turn means good planting.Soil-seed contact
Germination begins when the seed absorbs a large amount of water. For the seed to have access to water, it is important that soil clods surrounding the seed are not too coarse. The seed can take water from the soil when it has good contact with the soil.
In order to start photosynthesis, the seed also needs to be in contact with air and light. The soil covering the seed must be loose enough for it to have access to oxygen and for its vertical development in both directions to be unrestricted. Erosion control
The combined actions of the discs and the Normandie rollers provide excellent soil structuring. By breaking open potential surface crusts, water infiltration and retention capacity is increased.
By creating a mulch and leaving behind micro-furrows, Normandie equipment helps to limit erosion. Wind effects are limited, water storage capacity is improved and evaporation is reduced during intercrop periods.