Preparing Fields for Planting to Support Spring Seeding

Preparing fields for planting takes more than a few dry days. Early ground prep supports stronger germination and faster growth. It also cuts the need for repeat passes over wet or compacted soil. If you’re planning to sow in March or April, start groundwork now.

This blog covers how to prepare a field for planting with practical steps and proven tools. Whether you’re reseeding damaged pasture or establishing a new ley, good prep saves you time and fuel. All listed products are available at Mole Avon Country Stores, where local growers find quality and advice backed by field experience.

Field prep needs planning. Don’t rush on with seeding before getting the basics right.

Follow these core steps:

• Assess field condition. Walk the field. Look for signs of compaction, bare patches, or poor drainage.

• Clear debris. Remove old crop residues, stones, or waste. This avoids damage to machinery and ensures even seed spread.

• Spray off weeds early. If the sward is weedy or patchy, spray and wait for a kill before reworking the ground.

• Subsoil or aerate if needed. Address any compaction or standing water before moving on to cultivation.

• Decide on your seed. Match your mix to soil type, use, and timing. For fast-growing leys, try theMole Avon Italian Catch Crop Grass Seed 20kg.

• Create a fine, firm seedbed. This step matters most for even germination and healthy root growth.

Use weather windows wisely. Heavy ground may need more time to dry before you start.

Young grass needs quick access to nutrients, especially nitrogen and phosphorus. These support early root development and strong tillering. A pre-seeding fertiliser sets the crop up to outcompete weeds and establish fast.

Apply fertiliser after your final cultivation pass and just before sowing. Choose a balanced product that suits your soil type and test results. Avoid applying too early or in poor conditions, or you risk nutrient loss.

If you’re reseeding tired pasture, consider applying lime beforehand to correct soil pH. You’ll get more from both your seed and fertiliser.

Ask in-store at Mole Avon Country Stores for help choosing the right product and rate.

Cutting down on field passes saves fuel and keeps your timeline on track. Whether using a traditional or one-pass kit, the right tools can help you build a firm, fine seedbed faster.

Popular options include:

• Power harrows to level and break down clods

• Tine harrows for shallow cultivations and trash removal

• Rollers to firm the surface after sowing

• Combination drills to do several jobs in one pass

Keep an eye on seed depth and seed-to-soil contact. Overworking the soil dries it out and leads to patchy growth. Underworked soil leaves the seed too exposed.

For permanent pasture or light reseeds, try a surface mix like theMole Avon Rejuvenation Grass Mix 10kg. It works well with minimal cultivation on grazed or poached ground.

If your soil is compacted, waterlogged, or full of surface trash, it won’t support strong growth. You need good drainage and aeration. That’s where soil cultivation and field harrowing come in.

• Use a grass harrow to remove moss, dead grass, and weed cover.

• Spike aerators relieve surface compaction and let air and water reach the roots.

• Light cultivators can level rough ground and warm the soil faster.

Use field harrowing a few days before seeding to create a tilth on the surface. For fast turnaround in high-use paddocks, go with theMole Avon Versatility Grass Mix 14 kg. It suits cutting, grazing, and silage.

Once sown, use a ring roller to press the seed in. Then monitor the field regularly for pest or weed pressure.

Good ground prep saves time later. Before you start the drill, check:

• Tyres, seed calibration, and depth control on all equipment

• Stock levels of seed, fertiliser, and crop packaging supplies

• Weather forecasts and soil temperature (ideally 6°C and rising)

Want strong grass for sheep or silage? Try theMole Avon Dura-Bite Grass Mix 14 kg. It handles heavy traffic and keeps going through tough seasons.

Staff at Mole Avon Country Stores can help you plan, source, and apply the right kit for your land. Ask in-store or contact us if you need support with preparing fields for planting.

By setting up now, you give your spring seeding the best chance to take off. Get the right tools, act early, and you’ll reduce passes, fuel use, and stress later on.