A simple device to discourage loss of soil, organic matter and nutrients from row crops grown on sloping ground has been developed by Einbock for its precision hoes.

The so-called “hiller” attachment creates ridges of soil along the channel between crops such as maize and potatoes to act as dams that hold back water after heavy rainfall or irrigation.

See also: Super-efficient potato facility reduces costs and allows longer storage

Recommended for use during the final weed control hoeing pass, the device comprises a trailing arm to which a blade is attached.

This arm is lifted periodically by nylon “cams” on a lugged steel wheel.

Spacing of the water-constraining ridges or dams is therefore fixed, but blades of different widths are available to suit crop-row spacings of 50-80cm.