摘要 |
A method of harvesting sod using a sod harvester involves the formation of a series of defined slabs of sod that are positioned end-to-end, and conveyed up a conveyor that is driven at ground speed so that the slabs stay together. The slabs may be defined by respective series of spaced perforations so that the slabs remain connected by portions of the sod between the perforations. Where the slabs are completely separate, netting is introduced continuously below the series of slabs as they enter a roll-forming enclosure of the harvester. The netting keeps the slabs together and allows them to be formed into a roll in essentially the same fashion as a continuous strip of sod. Roll formation is continued until a large diameter roll has been formed comprising multiple layers of sod slabs. The large roll forms a unitary structure that can be manipulated and transported to a laying site in the same manner as a large single strip roll. At the site, the roll can be tipped onto its side, permitting individual slabs of sod to be pulled away from the roll and carried off for laying.
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