Subsoiler
What Is a Subsoiler? Benefits, Types, Price & Right Use
In Indian farming, one common problem faced by farmers is hard soil below the surface. Even after regular ploughing, the top soil looks fine, but underneath it becomes very hard. This layer blocks water, air, and roots from going deeper. As a result, crop growth and yield reduce.
This problem can be solved by one powerful farm implement called the Subsoiler.
A subsoiler is designed to break the hard soil layer deep inside the field without turning the soil upside down. In this blog, we will explain everything about subsoilers in simple, farmer-friendly English, with a per acre focus, so every Indian farmer can understand and use it wisely.
1. What Is a Subsoiler?
A subsoiler is a deep tillage agricultural implement that is attached to a tractor. It works 12 to 18 inches deep (and sometimes up to 24 inches) to break the hard pan layer formed under the soil surface.
In simple words:
A subsoiler loosens the soil from inside, without disturbing the top fertile layer.
Unlike ploughs or cultivators, it does not turn the soil. It only creates cracks in deep soil so that water and roots can move freely.
2. Main Purpose of a Subsoiler
2.1. How Does a Subsoiler Work?
- Sharp tines go deep into the soil
- Break the hard pan layer
- Create cracks below the surface
- Allow air, water, and roots to move easily
2.2. Per Acre Impact
- Water absorption improves by 20–30% per acre
- Root depth increases 2–3 times
- Better soil moisture retention
- Stronger and healthier crops
3. Benefits of Using a Subsoiler
Major Advantages for Farmers
- Breaks hard soil layers permanently
- Saves irrigation water (25–40% per acre)
- Improves root growth and strength
- Increases crop yield by 10–25% per acre
- Improves fertilizer efficiency
- Reduces water runoff during rain
- Improves soil health for many years
- Requires use only once in 2–3 years
👉 Important: Subsoiler is not needed every year. One use gives long-term benefits.
4. Types of Subsoilers
Choose According to Your Farm Size and Tractor Power
4.1. Single Tine Subsoiler
- Best for small farmers
- Works with low HP tractors
- Lower investment
- Suitable for small fields
4.2. Double Tine Subsoiler
- Ideal for medium farms
- Faster work per acre
- Better soil cracking
4.3. Multi Tine Subsoiler (3–5 Tines)
- Suitable for large farms or contract work
- Needs high HP tractors
- Covers more area in less time
5. Tractor Power Requirement (HP)
| Subsoiler Type | Required Tractor HP | Time Per Acre |
|---|---|---|
| Single Tine | 35–45 HP | 1.5–2 hours |
| Double Tine | 45–60 HP | 1–1.5 hours |
| 3 Tine | 60–75 HP | 45–60 minutes |
| 5 Tine | 75–90 HP | 30–45 minutes |
6. Subsoiler Price and Popular Brands (Per Acre Focus)
| Brand | Tines | Approx Price (₹) | Cost Per Acre |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fieldking | 1 | 25,000 – 30,000 | ₹600 – ₹900 |
| Dasmesh | 2 | 35,000 – 45,000 | ₹500 – ₹800 |
| Mahindra | 3 | 50,000 – 65,000 | ₹400 – ₹700 |
| Sonalika | 3–5 | 60,000 – 90,000 | ₹350 – ₹600 |
| Khedut | 1–2 | 22,000 – 40,000 | ₹600 – ₹850 |
Cost per acre depends on diesel, tractor HP, soil condition, and labour.
7. When Should a Subsoiler Be Used?
Best Time for Maximum Benefit
- After harvesting the crop
- When soil has light moisture
- Avoid very dry or very wet soil
- Use once every 2–3 years
👉 Best seasons: Before Rabi or before Kharif
8. Which Crops Benefit the Most?
High Return Crops (Per Acre)
- Sugarcane
- Cotton
- Maize
- Wheat
- Paddy (especially hard pan fields)
- Soybean
- Pulses like pigeon pea
These crops benefit greatly due to deeper roots and better nutrient uptake.
9. Important Precautions
To Avoid Damage and Loss
- Do not use subsoiler every year
- Avoid very wet soil
- Match subsoiler size with tractor HP
- Be careful in fields with pipelines or cables
- Avoid using in the same direction repeatedly
10. Per Acre Cost vs Profit (Quick View)
- Average cost: ₹400 – ₹900 per acre
- Yield increase: 10–25%
- Water saving: 25–40%
- Return on investment: 3–5 times
11. Government of India Subsidy and Schemes on Subsoiler
The Government of India, along with various State Governments, provides financial assistance (subsidy) to farmers for purchasing modern agricultural implements. Subsoiler is included under these agricultural machinery subsidy schemes in many states to promote deep tillage, soil health improvement, and water conservation.
Subsidy Availability on Subsoiler
Under different State Agriculture Machinery Subsidy Schemes, farmers can get 40% to 50% subsidy on the purchase of a subsoiler. In some states, the subsidy amount can go up to ₹75,000, depending on the machine cost, category of farmer, and state policy.
Who Gets More Benefit?
- Small and Marginal Farmers
- SC / ST Farmers
- Farmer Groups, FPOs, and Cooperatives
These categories may receive higher subsidy percentages compared to general farmers.
Schemes Under Which Subsoiler Subsidy Is Provided
There is no separate national scheme only for subsoilers, but subsidies are provided under:
- Agricultural Machinery Subsidy Scheme
- Krishi Yantra Anudan Yojana
- State Agriculture Mechanization Schemes
States like Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra commonly include subsoiler implements under these schemes.
How to Apply for Subsoiler Subsidy?
- Register on your State Agriculture Machinery Subsidy Portal
- Upload required documents (Aadhaar, land records, bank details)
- Apply for subsoiler under available machinery list
- Deposit security amount (if required)
- Selection is usually done through online lottery system
- After approval, subsidy amount is transferred directly to the farmer’s bank account
Why Farmers Should Use the Subsidy
- Reduces the purchase cost of subsoiler significantly
- Makes advanced farm machinery affordable
- Improves soil structure and per-acre productivity
- Ensures long-term soil health with minimum investment
Final Note for Farmers
Before purchasing a subsoiler, farmers are strongly advised to check the latest subsidy status on their state agriculture department portal, as rules, subsidy limits, and eligibility criteria may vary from state to state.
Using government subsidy wisely can reduce costs, increase per-acre yield, and improve farm sustainability 🌾
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a subsoiler a replacement for plough?
No. It is a supporting implement, not a replacement.
2. Can subsoiler be used every year?
No. Once in 2–3 years is enough.
3. Is subsoiler good for paddy fields?
Yes, especially where hard pan has formed.
4. How deep does a subsoiler work?
Generally 12–18 inches deep.
5. Can small farmers afford a subsoiler?
Yes. Single tine models are affordable or can be hired.
6. How much diesel is required per acre?
Around 3–5 litres per acre.
7. Does subsoiler turn the soil?
No. It only breaks the soil internally.
8. Does it control weeds?
Indirectly yes, by damaging deep weed roots.
9. Is hiring a subsoiler a good option?
Yes, very good for farmers without tractors.
10. Is it suitable for all soil types?
Mostly yes, especially hard and loamy soils.
Message for Indian Farmers
A subsoiler is not just a machine; it is a long-term solution for soil health. If your field has become hard, water does not go inside, or crop roots remain shallow, using a subsoiler once can bring visible improvement.
With low per acre cost, higher yield, and better water use, a subsoiler is a smart investment for Indian farmers.
👉 Strong soil means strong crops, and strong crops mean a strong farmer.
🌾 Happy Farming – Healthy Soil, Better Future!
👉 For more useful information on agricultural tools click here