As modern agriculture continues to evolve, the use of appropriate tools and machinery is proving critical for higher yields and soil health.
One such tool making a big difference, especially for commercial farmers, is the moldboard plow. Designed for deep tillage and efficient land preparation, moldboard plows are helping commercial farmers improve their productivity and manage soil better.
Gideon Zakke says moldboard plows are ideal for turning over the top layer of soil, burying weeds, crop residues, and pests.
“It’s one of the best tools for preparing virgin or compacted soils, unlike ordinary plows, moldboard plows slice through the soil and flip it, creating a clean seedbed and improving soil aeration,” he explains.
Zakke notes that moldboard plowing is particularly useful before planting crops like maize, beans, and cereals, which need well-aerated soil to thrive. It also helps control stubborn weeds and diseases that might be hiding in crop residues.
Sabastian Ngambwa, the director of Prime Agro Uganda Limited and a commercial farmer, says he has used moldboard plows for years on his large farm.
“They are very effective for large-scale operations; we use them before every planting season to ensure the land is well-prepared,” he says.
Ngambwa adds that while the initial cost of a moldboard plow might be high, the returns in terms of yield and soil health make it a worthy investment.
He also says moldboard plows should be used with proper timing, before the rains set in, and on suitable soil types. With the right use, moldboard plows can play a big role in boosting productivity and laying the foundation for better farming practices.
