In order to promote uniform ripening of the tubers, haulm reduction can be carried out two to three weeks before harvesting. In addition to preventing the transmission of viral infections from the haulm into the tuber, a good skin set on the tubers can be achieved to improve storability.

Instead of or as a supplement to chemical siccation, GRIMME offers a sustainable solution of haulm topping. By using a haulm topper, the haulm of the potatoes is mechanically crushed and deposited between the ridges. Careful placement of the haulm between the ridges is important. Epecially if the stems of the potato plants are to be treated with other herbicides afterwards.

A further advantage is the reduced risk of blockage at the intake of the harvester and the resulting increased throughput capacity in case of extreme masses of haulm. Using the TOPPA 800, the haulm of eight rows/ridges can be topped in one pass. The haulm topper is designed for rear mounting and can be hydraulically folded to a width of three metres for road transport. The machine is particularly suitable for farms, which use eight-row planters and for tractors without a front PTO shaft. In addition to all common international row- and track widths, it is also possible to fit a flail pattern for potatoes which are cultivated in (separated) beds.