Two fields of the same size can take very different times to work. Shape decides how many turns you make and how much ground is covered at less than full width.
Turning time adds up
Every pass ends with a turn. The number of passes depends on the field width divided by your implement width, and the time between turns depends on field length.
Compare two 20 acre fields worked with a 20 ft implement at 6 mph, with 30 seconds per turn:
- Long field (2,640 × 330 ft): 330 ÷ 20 ≈ 17 passes of 2,640 ft. Driving time ≈ 85 minutes; turning ≈ 8 minutes.
- Short field (660 × 1,320 ft): 1,320 ÷ 20 = 66 passes of 660 ft. Driving time ≈ 82 minutes; turning ≈ 32 minutes.
The short field needs four times as many turns, so its efficiency drops even though the area is identical.
Point rows and irregular edges
Triangular corners create passes that get shorter and shorter, with the same turning time each. Curved boundaries, ditches and tree lines add overlap and slow passes. In these fields, efficiency of 60 to 70% is common even for skilled operators.
Planning around awkward shapes
- Work the headlands first, then make main passes along the longest straight edge.
- Split irregular fields into blocks and work each in its best direction.
- Use guidance to reduce overlap on curves.
- Where practical, consider straightening boundaries or removing isolated obstacles.
Setting efficiency by shape
| Field type | Suggested efficiency |
|---|---|
| Long rectangle, few obstacles | 80 to 85% |
| Square or medium field | 75 to 80% |
| Small or short field | 65 to 75% |
| Irregular with point rows and obstacles | 55 to 65% |
Apply these in the Acres Per Hour Calculator to see how much time the shape of each field costs you.