Instead of being pulled directly by a draft animal or tractor, this implement is dragged back and forth across a field using a system of heavy wire ropes and winches. Stationary steam engines positioned at the edges of the field provide the pulling power. This method prevents heavy machinery from compacting the soil in the growing area.
Heard on the job
The museum is doing a demonstration of a steam-driven pulley-plough at the heritage festival.
Also heard as
- cable plough
Related terms
Plough
A heavy farm implement with a blade used to break up soil and cut furrows in preparation for sowing.
Mouldboard plough
A primary tillage implement that cuts, lifts, and completely turns over a layer of soil.
Swing plough
A traditional horse-drawn plough that lacks a supporting wheel under the front beam.