Thursday, November 14, 2024

Fuel Treatment Guide for John Deere Tractors Maximize Engine Performance

Keeping your John Deere tractor in peak condition starts with quality fuel care. A proper fuel treatment plan helps prevent common diesel engine issues like clogged filters, injector problems, and tough cold starts. Here’s a quick guide on how and why to use fuel treatments. Benefits of Fuel Treatment for John Deere Tractors Improved Engine Efficiency: Fuel additives help engines run cleaner, reducing emissions and enhancing performance. Protection Against Cold Weather: Fuel treatments are especially useful in colder months, reducing issues with starting and freezing. Easy ... Read More

Thursday, October 24, 2024

Fall Into Action: Tackle Yard Cleanup with Ease

As the vibrant colors of autumn start to blanket your yard with leaves, it's the perfect time to start getting your outdoor space prepped for the cooler months ahead. With the right tools in hand, tackling yard cleanup can be a breeze. Using trusted equipment from John Deere, STIHL and EGO is guaranteed to make the job quicker and easier. Step 1: Gather Your Essential Tools For a seamless and efficient yard cleanup, it's essential to have the right equipment. STIHL Blower (for efficient leaf clearing) EGO Cordless String Trimmer (for trimming overgrown areas) STIHL Chainsaw ... Read More

Friday, September 27, 2024

Battery Powered Blowers A Smarter Way to Clean Outdoors

When it comes to outdoor cleaning equipment, battery-powered blowers have several advantages that make them a superior choice. Whether you're a homeowner or professional landscaper, EGO and STIHL electric blowers are built for convenience and performance Why Choose Battery Powered Blowers? Eco-Friendly:Unlike gas-powered models, battery-powered blowers produce zero emissions, making them a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious users. Low Noise: These blowers operate quietly, perfect for residential areas where noise levels matter. Convenient: Cordless and lightweight, ba... Read More

Wednesday, August 21, 2024

Maximizing Efficiency on the Jobsite: The Versatility of Skid Steers

When it comes to versatile, powerful machinery on the jobsite, skid steers are often at the top of the list. Whether you’re digging trenches, grading surfaces, or moving materials, skid steers like those from John Deere and Wacker Neuson can significantly enhance productivity. The Benefits of Skid Steers Skid steers are known for their maneuverability and efficiency in tight spaces. Their design features a small footprint and a tight turning radius, making them ideal for confined job sites where larger machinery might struggle. With the ability to pivot in place, skid steers excel in t... Read More

Wednesday, July 24, 2024

Choosing the right tractor: Sub compact vs. Compact

Have you been eyeing a new John Deere tractor? Not sure what model is right for you? Here are some differences and factors between the John Deere sub-compact and compact tractors to consider before making your next big purchase. Key Differences: - Size and Power Sub-compact tractors like the John Deere 1023E and 1025R are smaller and generally have lower horsepower compared to compact tractors, 21.5 hp and 23.9 hp respectively. This makes them ideal for smaller properties or tasks requiring less power. Conversely, compact tractors are larger and more powerful, making them suitable for... Read More

Friday, June 21, 2024

What is Biocide and When to Use It

Maintaining your John Deere tractor involves various tasks, and keeping the fuel tank clean is a top priority. Diesel fuel tanks are prone to contamination by algae, bacteria, and other harmful microorganisms. You can treat diesel algae with a biocide to ensure your tractor runs smoothly. Biocides can provide numerous benefits: Eliminate harmful microorganisms Prevent fuel degradation Extend the engine’s lifespan The regular use of a biocide treatment prevents the growth of algae and bacteria, ensuring clean fuel and efficient engine performance. Algae growth in diesel tanks i... Read More

Thursday, May 16, 2024

3 Soil Types for Gardening

When selecting the appropriate soil for your garden, it's essential to consider the specific location and type of garden you have. Determine whether the plants' roots will have ample space to grow and thrive. Here are some soil options to consider: Mushroom Compost: This nutrient-dense compost is a by-product of mushroom farming and is typically used to enrich your existing soil. It provides essential nutrients for plant growth and can improve soil structure. Garden Soil: This type of soil consists of a mixture of compost, bark, and sand, designed to create an optimal environment for pl... Read More

Wednesday, April 17, 2024

Spring Gardening Tips for Beginners

Do you want a beautiful garden, but don’t know where to start? These essential gardening tips will teach you the basics Identify your gardening goals. Are you aiming for a blooming flower garden, a vegetable patch, or an herb garden? Knowing your goal can help you pick the right seeds. Check the hardiness zone. Different plants thrive in different climates. Choose seeds that are compatible with your specific hardiness zone for the most successful growth here: https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/ Choosing your seeds. Pay attention to the seed descriptions provided by the supplier. D... Read More

Friday, March 15, 2024

Spring Into Action: Essential Lawn Care Tools

  Are you looking to add to your lawn equipment arsenal? From hand tools to power equipment to lawn mowers, SunSouth has you covered with these lawn care essentials: Lawnmower One of the biggest and most important pieces of equipment for every homeowner is a good lawn mower. When picking out what type of mower to get (i.e., push mower, lawn tractor, zero turn) consider the size of your yard, any obstacles you might have to maneuver around, and how/where it will be stored. EGO Power+ Push Mower – Great for smaller yards that do not have too many obstacles to cut around. It... Read More

Friday, February 16, 2024

Prepare for Mowing Season

Waiting for Spring to service your John Deere equipment? Get ahead of the game so you’re ready to go as soon as the grass turns green! Before the first cut of mowing season, be sure to prep your mower/tractor for its first use since Winter. The following maintenance checklist is recommended Change or check the oil Use fresh fuel. Do not use fuel that has been sitting since Winter. Sharpen blades Clean or change filters Check spark plugs to ensure easy start up To help get you prepared for a season full of mowing and home projects, SunSouth is currently offering specials ... Read More

Friday, January 19, 2024

New Year, New Deere

Thinking about buying a new John Deere? Whether you are a first-time buyer, looking to trade-in, or want to add to your John Deere collection, there are a few factors to think about that can help you decide the best model for you. Here is a list of important things to consider when shopping for a new tractor: Assess Your Needs When deciding on the perfect tractor, think about your specific needs. Will you be farming, landscaping, performing small tasks around your property, etc.? John Deere offers a diverse range of tractors, each designed for specific purposes, so knowing your requiremen... Read More

Friday, December 15, 2023

How to Winterize your John Deere Mower

How to Winterize your John Deere Mower   With cooler months upon us, it is important to prepare your lawn mower for storage during winter. While you are not using your mower in the winter, follow these steps so that you’ll be ready to go once Spring arrives.   Clean Your Mower Take the time to clean off your mower before you put it up for the season. Grass, debris, mud, etc., caked on the spindles and blades will be harder to remove once it has hardened and settled. An easy and fast way to clean off a mower is to take a leaf blower and quickly blow off all th... Read More

Monday, November 20, 2023

Christmas Guide 2023

All our locations at SunSouth are stocked with a variety of items that would make the perfect Christmas gift. From children to adults, we have you covered on all your gift-giving needs. Apparel Help your family and friends show off their John Deere pride! Whether it's hats, shirts, hoodies, or children’s clothes, we have options for the whole family. Toys For the little ones in your life, John Deere toys make the perfect gift. From small collectible tractors to battery-powered ride-on gators to John Deere scooters, there are endless options for all age ranges. Tools &a... Read More

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Electric vs Gas Zero Turn Mowers

Have you ever considered an electric lawn mower? John Deere recently released its first-ever electric zero-turn lawn mower, the Z370R Electric ZTrak. The Z370R is comparable to the normal, gas-powered zero-turns in the John Deere residential line-up in terms of performance and durability, but let’s go over some key differences that make it so great. The all-new John Deere Electric ZTrak If you’ve been looking for a mower that does it all and is electric, we’ve got you covered! John Deere now offers the new Z370R Electric ZTrak for those who are environmentally c... Read More

Wednesday, September 13, 2023

Get Ready for Hunting Season with John Deere

Who's ready to get back in the stands and blinds this hunting season?! If you are planning to prepare your own plots, check out these tips that can help you cut down on all the hassle and get the job done fast. See what equipment SunSouth John Deere carries to get you ready to get back in action this season. What type of John Deere tractor should I use? Are you starting fresh with a new plot this year? Clearing the land can be a strenuous task, but with a John Deere compact tractor, the job will be done before you know it. Any Series 1 through Series 4 compact tractors can easily help... Read More

Monday, August 7, 2023

What John Deere Mower is Best for Me

Whether your yard is small or large, there is a mower that can fit your needs. Here are a few top-performing options that you can find at your local SunSouth dealership. John Deere X350 Looking for a lawn tractor that allows you to maneuver around obstacles in your yard? The John Deere X300 series has the perfect mowers that offer power steering to make mowing your lawn easier. The John Deere X350 mowers are available in 42-inch and 48-inch decks, depending on your preference of deck size. John Deere Z320R The Z300 series zero-turn mowers are great for those who want a ba... Read More

Friday, July 7, 2023

Healthy Lawn Care Guide for Summer

Now that Summer is here, keeping your lawn healthy during the hot months is important. Following these five tips will help you keep your lawn looking good all Summer long! 1. Make sure you are properly watering yoru grass Often, many homeowners tend to water their lawns too much or not enough. There are a couple of signs that your lawn is not getting watered properly. Grass turning brown or a dull green typically means that it needs more water. If you walk in your yard and there is a trail of footsteps left behind, it is also a sign that the grass needs more water. It should only tak... Read More

Thursday, June 1, 2023

Fathers Day Gift Ideas

Give a gift that will make your dad say “WOW!” From small hand tools to a zero-turn mower, your dad will be the talk of the neighborhood with these gifts. STIHL HSA 25 Impress your dad with this small, but mighty hedge trimmer. With it being battery operated, lightweight, and features double-sided cutting blades to cut in both directions. View A trimmer that offers a large fuel tank, comfortable grip, and power that gets the job done fast, your dad will be thanking you every time he uses his new STIHL weed eater! View STIHL FS 91 STIHL BR 450 T... Read More

Tuesday, May 9, 2023

The Benefits of Using a Bagger Attachment

Ways that a bagger can be useful to your lawncare routine: Can help with the aesthetic appeal of your yard: Keeps your yard looking clean Removes large clumps of grass If there are fungi and/or diseases growing in your grass, bagging the grass can help stop the spread and allow the grass to heal quicker. For safety, the bagger helps with: Prevents debris from flying around. This can save you from serious injuries or having to pay for a broken window. If you suffer from allergies, this can help lower the allergens flying around in the air The bagger allows the grass clipping... Read More

Thursday, April 6, 2023

Say Goodbye to Weeds

Struggling with weeds growing all over your lawn? JD from Dothan Nurseries has a few tips that can help get rid of the pesky weeds without killing your grass! When treating weeds, JD says the first thing to do is identify the type you're dealing with. After identifying the weeds that are infesting your yard, you can purchase a spray that will only kill the weeds and not your grass. The staff at Dothan Nurseries can help decide which spray you’ll need if you are having difficulties deciding. JD also mentions that the height of the grass plays a role in weeds spreading. If you are ... Read More

Friday, March 10, 2023

The Perfect Spring DIY

Spring is in the air! Now is the time to begin gardening projects that will make your home look great. An easy do-it-yourself project idea is raised beds. Raised beds, or garden planters, can be used to plant flowers or in-season fruits and veggies. There are many benefits to planting in a raised bed rather than directly into the ground. - Less weeds - Soil warms up faster - Discourages wild animals from eating fruits/vegetables - Allows for better drainage - Saves your back with less bending and crawling When preparing to build a garden planter, you will need to think about the l... Read More

Tuesday, January 24, 2023

Lawn Tractor or ZTrak

Mowing season will be here before you know it and that means breaking out your trusted mower or for some it could mean beginning the process of buying a new one. When it comes to buying a John Deere mower, you have several choices but the biggest choice is choosing between a lawn tractor and a zero turn. While each mower has features to make sure you get the best cut, the size and terrain of your property is the biggest factor to think about when choosing one over the other. If you have property with curves, slopes or hills, your best option is a lawn tractor but if you are looking ... Read More

Tuesday, December 20, 2022

New Year New Equipment

With the new year right around the corner, people are beginning to make resolutions that might require new equipment. If you are a first-time equipment buyer, we are here to help with some tips to remember when you start shopping.  1. Consider your to-do listWhen you are beginning to think about what kind of equipment you need, think about what kind of work you are trying to accomplish. The answer will help you determine which equipment is best for you and your property.  2. Know your property typeThe type of land you have is a crucial factor in selecting the right pi... Read More

Wednesday, December 14, 2022

What Size Tractor Do I Need?

By Joe Baya | April 27, 2022 | Land Management Source: https://greatdaysoutdoors.com/what-size-tractor-do-i-need/ You've researched, shopped and finally closed on your very own piece of hunting land heaven. Be it 10, 40, 100 or even more acres, the question is, now that you own it, how are you going to maintain and manage it? That entails cutting lawns, clearing brush, keeping your roads in shape, planting food plots and whatever projects tickles your fancy. To do that you either need to have a lot of strong friends, a huge family or invest in a tractor and appropriate implements. The ... Read More

Tuesday, November 22, 2022

Winter is Coming

Winter is coming and that means your off season equipment is getting ready to be stored. Jayme from our Brundidge store has some quick tips on what to do to ensure your equipment is put up properly.In case you need a quick checklist, we've got you covered: Clean it with a high-pressure washer, making sure to get in all the nooks and crannies where dirt and trash can hide. Check for worn parts including belts and hoses, loose bolts, leaks, electrical connections, hydrualics, etc. Now is the time to repair and replace, rather than when you want to start up again and experience a problem, ... Read More

Thursday, October 20, 2022

5 Things You Didnt Know About Peanut Harvesting

Peanuts are a popular crop among farms, a hot weather crop that requires specific machinery and preparations to ensure a successful harvest. While proper equipment is essential, you must know basic facts about how peanuts are grown, harvested, and stored. Here are five things you probably didn’t know about peanut harvesting: 1. Peanuts don’t grow on trees. They are grown underneath the soil, which is part of what makes peanuts such a sustainable crop. One of the benefits of them growing under the soil is that they add beneficial nitrogen to the soil and require less water than... Read More

Thursday, September 22, 2022

John Deere iMatch Quick Hitch

One of the benefits of owning a compact utility tractor is the number of available implements and attachments. Tractor attachments can greatly improve productivity, helping landowners to customize their tractors according to individual project needs without having to purchase a new piece of equipment. Attaching implements can be a headache but with the iMatch quick hitch, the job is made easier. The iMatch quick hitch allows you to back up your tractor, raise the hitch until it connects with the pins, and then you are ready to get to work. This versatile tool is compatible with most rear ... Read More

Wednesday, August 24, 2022

Why You Should Consider Buying Used John Deere Equipment

When it comes to buying John Deere equipment, you look for quality and reliability. John Deere equipment has stood the test of time and is the number one choice when it comes time to get the work done around your property. However, sometimes a new piece of equipment doesn’t fit your budget. If this sounds like you, used John Deere equipment is the perfect option. Buying used equipment offers obvious cost savings, but thanks to the quality and durability of John Deere equipment, buying used often means getting a fantastic piece of equipment at a fraction of the price of a brand new ... Read More

Thursday, July 28, 2022

The Future of Weed Control | John Deere See & Spray Ultimate

The next generation of precision weed killing is here. See & Spray Ultimate is the future of weed management. Cotton farmer Will Sanford from Prattville, Alabama, got a first-hand look at how revolutionary this technology will be for farmers everywhere. "It's amazing the technology that John Deere is bringing to the market that will help us, as producers, be good stewards of the land that we have, and be able to cut the cost of the herbicide we put out," Sanford shared. See & Spray Ultimate can reduce non-residual herbicide use by more than two-thirds... Read More

Thursday, June 16, 2022

Beat the Summer Heat

It’s that time of the year again; record breaking temperatures, high humidity and heat warnings. With "feels like" temperatures exceeding near or over 100 for many in the south, whether you are working in the field or just trying to stay cool inside, we’ve got some tips and tricks to help you survive this southern summer. If you are working outside this summer, we have the perfect products to help you get the job done and stay cool while doing it. From your tractor to your mower, there are several canopy options out there to help keep you in the shade while working. If you ar... Read More

Tuesday, May 17, 2022

The Basics of Haymaking

Regardless of how you harvest, bale, and store hay, the purpose of haymaking is to feed animals. Be they beef cattle, dairy cows, horses, goats ... even llamas if you raise 'em! If it’s four-legged on the farm or ranch, hay is probably a necessary source of nutrition. Especially during cold winter months. So when it comes to our haymaking basics - cutting, baling, and storing hay - nutrition quality is the top priority. Now before we get started, here are a couple key points to make. First, we're going to be talking about grass hay, as opposed to legumes like alfalfa. The paramete... Read More

Tuesday, May 17, 2022

How to Setup and Operate a Mower Conditioner

There are several pieces of equipment that can be used for cutting hay. But when it comes to cutting larger fields typically found in livestock and dairy operations, the two most commonly used tools are a disc mower or a mower conditioner. Both use similar types of cutterbars to cut the hay, but the mower conditioner does so much more. Whereas a disc mower and other hay cutting tools just cut the hay, a mower conditioner cuts the hay, then conditions the cut hay by running it through a conditioning system that cracks or crimps the stalks to promote moisture evaporation and faster drying... Read More

Friday, April 29, 2022

Customer Service

Customer Service - we throw that word around a lot, but what does it really mean? The definition of customer service is the assistance and advice provided by a company to those who buy or use its products or services. But how do we measure customer service? Is it by the deal we get, the conversations we had, the way we felt when all was said or done? Everyone has their own beliefs regarding customer service and what distinguishes excellent service from bad. There is no specific formula that measures service the same for everyone. That's the beauty of the world we live in and everyone's ... Read More

Tuesday, April 12, 2022

Tips to Check Items Off Your Spring Yard Cleanup List

As soon as spring rounds the corner, many face an array of projects that built up over the cold winter months. In the period between regular snowfall and hot temperatures, home and landowners everywhere are ready to be outside and get their outdoor space looking as good as new. Below are tips for these individuals who can't wait to work through their list of spring yard cleanup tasks, from repairing gravel driveways to plowing and tilling vegetable gardens. Preparing Equipment for Spring Yard Cleanup Before jumping into any yard cleanup task, homeowners must first take steps to ensur... Read More

Tuesday, April 12, 2022

Achieve Higher Yields This Spring Planting Season with John Deere

As spring draws closer, farmers across the country are in the midst of preparing for their next planting season. Despite cold weather and, for many, the ongoing presence of snow, producers know that as soon as the climate allows for it, they will need to be out in their fields day in and day out to achieve high yields. Before heading out to the fields, however, farmers must first take certain factors into consideration, such as the crops they are going to plant, when they can actually sow their fields, and - critically - what planting equipment they are going to use. How to Effectivel... Read More

Tuesday, April 12, 2022

Highlighting the Importance of Engine Regeneration

Regeneration is the process of oxidizing the accumulated soot from a filter. To comply with environmental regulations, your John Deere tractor may come with an after-treatment device, which includes a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and diesel particulate filter (DPF). After at least 3,000 hours, your machinery will let you know when the filter needs to be removed and cleaned. But there are two types of regeneration: passive and active. Let's take a closer look at each, as well as why regeneration is important for your engine. Passive vs. Active Regeneration Passive regeneration does... Read More

Tuesday, March 29, 2022

A Life Without Agriculture

March 22 was National Agriculture Day, and it got me thinking; where would we be without the men and women of the AG world? Every day we wake up, throw off the cotton blanket we slept under, make our eggs and drink our milk, put on our cotton shirts, and go on about our day. Notice a pattern? Almost everything we touch, wear, eat or drink comes from someone in the agriculture industry. According to the Farm Bureau, “One U.S. farm feeds 166 people annually in the U.S. and abroad.” How mind-blowing is it that one little farm in rural America feeds ... Read More

Thursday, March 10, 2022

Why and When to use a Cultipacker

We all know, from basic gardening to commercial farming, there are lots of factors that will affect crop yield. But when you use a cultipacker, you’ll be properly preparing the seedbed, and insuring good seed to soil contact, two of the most important things you can do for achieving success. After you’re done with any disking or other tillage practice, you need to prepare the seedbed to be firm and even and ready for seeding. And one of the best tools for accomplishing that is a cultipacker. That’s true whether you’re using a smaller cultipacker with a compact ut... Read More

Wednesday, March 9, 2022

How To Plow And Till A Vegetable Garden

This project about how to plow and till a vegetable garden area that’s never been plowed before is another one we collaborated on with Jeremy and Corie Unruh. They’d reached out to us at Tips Notebook because they knew we wanted people to send us their project ideas. And this is another great one to share. For this project, we’ll start by using a John Deere 3038E Compact Utility Tractor, a 300E loader with a 61-inch (155 cm) materials bucket, and a Frontier PB1001 One-Bottom Plow. Later, we’ll also use a Frontier RT1165 Rotary Tiller to prepare the seedbed for p... Read More

Wednesday, March 9, 2022

John Deere Intelligent Power Management How Does It Work

As John Deere continues to develop a wide range of machinery to cater to its customers, it’s also keeping power in mind. In order for equipment to run smoothly over the course of several years, its computer systems and data centers must work efficiently. For this reason, Deere offers Intelligent Power Management (IPM) to help customers save money in the long term by reducing their electric bills and downtime. Furthermore, IPM extends hardware life, giving customers one less thing to worry about when it comes to machine maintenance. What is John Deere Intelligent Power Managemen... Read More

Wednesday, March 9, 2022

John Deere Planter History Where Did It All Begin

Farmers everywhere know that in order to make the most out of their time during the planting season, they need the right equipment on their side. This is where planters show their true value, especially those produced by John Deere. Today, the company’s planters allow producers to plant corn, soybeans, cotton, sugar beets, and popcorn accurately at 10 mph thanks to top-notch technological features. But, where did it all begin? A Timeline of John Deere Planter History To better understand how planting equipment got to where it is today, we’ve put together a list of some of... Read More

Wednesday, March 9, 2022

A Buyers Guide to Choosing a Zero Turn Mower

Even in the height of winter, most homeowners and landscaping experts are thinking about what their first project is going to be once the snow melts and the ground thaws. And while many will plan to reuse the same equipment from the year prior, others are ready for an upgrade – this is where zero-turn mowers shine. These pieces of equipment are designed to make landscaping a breeze, whether it is on a small to medium size piece of land or a commercial job. For those that are not able to, or may not want to, purchase a brand new piece of equipment, there are plenty of used John Deer... Read More

Monday, February 28, 2022

10 Spring Mowing Checkpoints

Spring is right around the corner, which means it is time to pull your mower out of storage. After sitting all winter, there are a few things you need to check before you jump into mowing your lawn. Check the oil, making sure it is at the full mark Check the air filter to make sure it is clean and free of debris Check fuel filter to make sure it is not clogged Check that your battery is free of corrosion Check the tire pressure of both front and rear tires Check that your blades are not worn, and they can turn freely Check and make sure there is no b... Read More

Wednesday, February 16, 2022

How to Build a Self Filling Livestock Water Tank

In this video, we're working with a landowner in southeast Kansas. He keeps some cattle in a pasture, but it doesn’t have a water source for them. So, we're going to install a self-filling livestock water tank, also known as a tire tank. To do this, we'll need to dig a trench and lay a waterline from a spigot to the pasture fence, which is about 350 feet (106.7 m) away. Then we'll use that waterline to install the self-filling livestock water tank. We'll do that using a John Deere 1025R Compact Utility Tractor (US CA) with a factory installed 260 Backhoe. We’ve also add... Read More

Wednesday, February 16, 2022

Clean Up Tree Branches Using a Root Grapple

If you need to clean up tree branches by hand, it can be a daunting task, depending on the size and number of the piles. But if you've outfitted yourself with the right equipment for the job, then you’re headed for seeing your property sparkle after a strong clean-up effort. The Right Equipment Package For this project, we've matched our 53-inch (134.6 cm) Frontier Root Grapple (US CA) with a John Deere 2025R Compact Utility Tractor (US CA). It has plenty of horsepower and the hydrostatic transmission that helps make any project go as smoothly as possible. We've also add... Read More

Wednesday, February 16, 2022

Planting Clover to Attract Honey Bees

There are all kinds of reasons to plant all kinds of food plots for all kinds of wildlife. But planting clover specifically to attract honey bees was a new one, even for us. This property owner in southeast Kansas has a friend with a few beehives nearby. So, we're helping him with an experiment by seeding a plot that’s about 1/3 of an acre in Crimson Clover to see if it can attract honey bees and have a positive impact on honey production. If it does, a much larger seeding project could be in his future. The Equipment Package For this project, we’re using a Frontie... Read More

Wednesday, February 16, 2022

Pick Up Grass Clippings Using a Drive Over Mower Deck

The drive over mower deck for your John Deere Compact Utility Tractor has made it easy to mow that large lawn of yours. And now you can pick up grass clippings with a drive-over mower deck just as easily. If not removed, those clippings can lead to thatch buildup, which can block water and fertilizer from reaching the soil and roots. Leaves left on your lawn in the fall and winter can smother your grass and inhibit spring growth. And leaves and grass clippings are both great additions to a compost pile, building nutrients for everything that grows. So if you're running a John Deere ... Read More

Monday, January 24, 2022

Get Your Garden Ready

With the winter months slowly creeping away, it's getting close to spring. For many that means getting outside and preparing their garden for those warmer months. We’ve got some to-do's to help you get your garden ready to plant. 1. Pull Weeds: Whether it's new weeds or leftover weeds be sure to eliminate them now while the ground is still soft. More importantly, it's imperative to to remove them before they deeply root. This is the top to do before planting seed. 2. Fertilize Beds: Apply new fertilizer to give your soil the extra nutrients it needs. The key is to add new f... Read More

Tuesday, January 18, 2022

How to Make Using a 3 Point Hitch Easier

The 3-point hitch is a standardized device on today's tractors. But there are at least three options available that can make the process of using a 3-point hitch easier. So let's take a look at how they all work. We’ll start with a John Deere 3043D Compact Utility Tractor (US CA) that has a standard Category 1, 3-point hitch. And we will hook it up to a Frontier BB2072 Box Blade (US CA). Pretty straightforward stuff. The standard 3-point hitch has two rigid lift arms with holes at the end called draft links. You back up to the implement to line up the holes on the draft links... Read More

Friday, January 14, 2022

What is Sustainable Agriculture? Best Practices for Success

For some time now, the bulk of the world's food has been produced through means of industrial agriculture – this has involved large farms growing the same crops each year while using various chemicals (pesticides and fertilizers) that can have a negative impact on soil, water, and the air. Considering the fact that these practices are known to squander valuable resources, it is no surprise that farmers are looking for new ways to produce food, including by means of sustainable agriculture. What is Sustainable Agriculture? According to the National Institute of Food and Agri... Read More

Friday, January 14, 2022

Is a Small 3 Point Liquid Sprayer Right for You?

Whether you have a small to mid-sized pasture, or a large lawn, spreading fertilizer, weed control, and other products that help healthy grass grow are jobs you have to knock out multiple times every year. That's why a small 3-point liquid sprayer that fits your property is one that gives you the right working width and lets you spot spray as needed so you can do those jobs as quickly and accurately as possible. In this video, we're working on a large lawn that's about 250 feet long by about 100 feet wide. It has trees, a gravel drive running through it, and it's bordered by a fence... Read More

Friday, January 14, 2022

The Difference Between Forward and Reverse Tine Rotary Tillers

In this video, you'll learn about the difference between forward and reverse tine rotary tillers so you can decide which one is right for you. In this video, we'll use a John Deere 3043D Compact Utility Tractor (US CA) and a Frontier RT3062 Rotary Tiller (US CA) that features forward rotating tines. We'll also use a Frontier RT3062R Rotary Tiller (US CA) with reverse rotating tines, so we can compare the results we get with each style of rotary tiller. And to complete each equipment package, we’ve added a 300E Loader (US CA) and a 49-inch materials bucket. Forward and reverse... Read More

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

New Years Resolutions

We all make new year resolutions and while they normally include working out more, eating healthy and saving money, for farmers that may look a little different. Now that the harvest of 2021 is complete and we have a fresh slate for 2022, what are some resolutions you should have for yourself and your farm. Be better organized. Whether it is tools, equipment or even paperwork we all know there is room for improvement when it comes to organization on the farm. Implementing new organizational systems can make the world of difference when it comes to how your farm is ran. Lear... Read More

Monday, December 6, 2021

How to Remove a Tree Stump

This video is about how to remove a tree stump using a John Deere Backhoe. The 260 backhoe we’ll be using was installed at the factory on a John Deere 1025R Compact Utility Tractor (US CA). And don’t be fooled. You can get a lot of work done with its 25 horsepower (18.6 kW). We’ve also added an H120 loader (US CA) and a Frontier AP10F Pallet Fork (US CA) for ballast on the front of our tractor. Not long ago there was a 30-foot (9.1 m) persimmon tree standing here that the property owner was fed up with having to mow around. Now, all that’s left is this stump... Read More

Monday, December 6, 2021

How to Build a Retaining Wall

We’re here on Jeremy and Corie Unruh’s 13-acre property in northeastern Kansas to help build a retaining wall around a patio on the back of their home. We’re here because they responded to our invitation to send us their project ideas, which is something you can do, too, by sending us an email at TipIdea@JohnDeere.com Right after they purchased this home, the Unruh’s built a large concrete patio on the back with an in-ground pool. Their plan was to build a retaining wall and add some landscape material between the wall and the patio. We thought that sounded l... Read More

Monday, December 6, 2021

Why You Should Know About A Skid Steer Adapter For Your Loader

As sometimes happens with first-time tractor buyers, you might have a tractor and loader package you’re just not satisfied with. Your current loader uses a skid steer carrier design, so you're already the proud owner of a collection of skid steer loader attachments. And those implements aren’t compatible with the tractor and loader carrier you want. That’s why you should know about a skid steer adapter for the new loader. For example, this video shows how two different materials buckets that aren’t compatible with the same loader carrier can be made to work w... Read More

Monday, December 6, 2021

How to Fill Your Loader Bucket Every Time

Knowing some of the tricks of the trade can make any job just a little bit easier. Getting a good, full load in your loader bucket is just one of them. It may look easy, and it isn’t hard, but there are a couple techniques you should know that will help you fill your loader bucket with any material every time. So here’s Tip #1. Put your tractor in low gear and don’t be shy about driving your bucket deep into the material pile. You bought your equipment to do just this kind of work. So don’t hold back. Quality-made equipment will stand up to it. Tip #2. Keep ... Read More

Tuesday, November 30, 2021

2021 Christmas Gift Guide

Did you know SunSouth is your one stop shop for all things Christmas gifts? We’ve got something for everyone in your family. From baby to old man and everything in between, SunSouth is your go to for gift giving. 1. John Deere Apparel: While not all 21 locations carry apparel, for those locations that do, stop by, and pick up shirts, hats, sweatshirts and more. The John Deere lovers in your life will be proud to sport that green and yellow. 2. John Deere Toy Set: You could never go wrong with toys for your little ones. SunSouth has toys for ages 3 months and up. This ye... Read More

Friday, November 12, 2021

John Deere 5M Series Tractors: Redefined for Productivity

To cater to customers seeking new technology and transmission options, John Deere has revamped its lineup of 5M Series Tractors. Enhanced features and capabilities have been added to meet the demands of hay, livestock, and commercial customers. "Now, John Deere makes the PowrQuad transmissions available on the 5090M, 5100M, 5115M cab versions and includes it in base equipment on the newly added 125-horsepower 5125M, which is only available with a cab. PowrQuad transmissions make it easy for operators to find the right speed with clutchless, push-button shifting between gears, allowing t... Read More

Monday, November 1, 2021

Planting to Harvest

Peanuts are a staple crop here in the deep south but do you know how they are grown? Unlike most plants, the flowers and leaves grow above ground and the peanut itself grows below ground. From planting to harvest, the entire growing cycle takes about 4 to 5 months. After the last frost, farmers begin tilling the land ensuring a rich and well-prepared seedbed. After the soil is ready, farmers plant peanut kernels in the ground and begin preparing for the harvest. About 145 days after planting, once the plants have matured, farmers begin the harvest process. When conditions are... Read More

Tuesday, October 19, 2021

How To Change Your Fuel Filter on a John Deere 1025R

... Read More

Tuesday, October 19, 2021

How To Over Seed a Large Lawn Using an Overseeder

Overseeding is one of the best things you can do to promote a high quality lawn of thick, healthy grass. The best time to over seed a large lawn is in the fall, while the soil temperature is still warm, the nights are relatively cool, and the chances for rain are better than during the summer. This way, the grass seed has its best chance to germinate and become established before winter arrives. For this project, we’ll be working on a large lawn in southeast Kansas that is about 250 feet (76.2 m) long, and about 100 feet (30.5 m) wide. We’re using a Frontier GS1160 Gr... Read More

Tuesday, October 19, 2021

Repair a Gravel Drive Using a Box Blade

By definition, the surface of your gravel driveway is made of loose stone. Over time, some of that loose stone will get pushed off leading to erosion, potholes, ruts, and bare spots. Let it go too long and you’ll have a repair a gravel drive project on your hands. The good news is, with the right tools, it’s pretty easy to do, doesn’t take that long, and doesn’t cost very much. We’ll get after this project to repair a gravel drive using a John Deere 5075E Utility Tractor, a Frontier BB2072 Box Blade with scarifiers, a 520M Loader and a John Deere 79-... Read More

Monday, September 20, 2021

Cutting Down Chore Lists with John Deere Compact Utility Tractors

Since entering the agricultural industry in 1837 with the invention of the steel plow, John Deere has strived towards making the lives of its customers easier. This has meant offering a variety of equipment that covers a wide range of industries and use cases, from construction to forestry to residential needs. Knowing that customers’ priorities are constantly shifting, John Deere has worked to deliver the versatility these individuals need in the equipment it manufactures. This is where the company’s range of compact utility tractors comes into play. What Is... Read More

Thursday, August 19, 2021

How To Repair Ruts Or Tire Tracks

How To Repair Ruts Or Tire Tracks Being able to repair ruts or tire tracks around your property is a handy skill to have. Because no matter how soft your tractor seat might be, dealing with a bumpy ride while doing your work can be a real pain in the... seat. Besides being uncomfortable, it can impact how effectively you can actually do your work. We'll start by round bale storage area. Theirs is a very active cow/calf/hay operation, and the weather this spring was pretty wet. Now that things have dried out, tire tracks made by their tractors on wet ground have hardened making fo... Read More

Thursday, August 19, 2021

Examining The Impact of Volunteer Wheat on Future Crops

Wheat producers know that they are up against a wide aray of crop diseases every season. However, there are preventative measures they can take to ensure that these threats do not impact their yield. By being proactive, producers can do everything in their power to maintain their bottom line. What is Volunteer Wheat? Volunteer wheat is a problem that some producers may run into, and failing to address it can contaminate the harvest. When crop and herbicide rotation are not utilized in fields, volunteer plants can grow and thrive. Volunteer wheat, in particular comes from ... Read More

Tuesday, July 27, 2021

12 Attachments to Add to Your John Deere EZTrak Mower

Those who own or have come across a John Deere EZTrak mower understand they are incredibly simple to operate while also getting the job done right each time. However, the mowing process can be enhanced even further thanks to a number of available zero-turn mower attachments. John Deere EZTrak Mower Attachments From bumper attachments to mower lights, there is a range of options to choose from when it comes to making the landscaping experience even better. To showcase some of these zero-turn mower attachments, we’ve put together a list that provides a short description of each. Enjoy! ... Read More

Tuesday, June 22, 2021

Essential Lawn Care and Land Care Tools to Consider This Summer

As the cold weather fades and the sun stays out longer each day, all most want to do is be outside. This includes home and landowners who have spent the previous months thinking about their next landscaping project. But while the warm weather can prove beneficial in several ways, it can also present several challenges that can lead these same homeowners who have been anticipating this climate to run through their list of tasks as quickly as possible. This is where having the right lawn care tools can play a crucial role, and can mean the difference between a job half done and a job done rig... Read More

Tuesday, June 1, 2021

How to Safely Operate a Portable Generator

Portable generators are useful for a variety of situations. From camping trips to power outages, a portable generator is the perfect purchase. While there are many options on the market, SunSouth offers generators from brands such as Honda and John Deere. Once you purchase your generator, it is important to know the proper way to operate and maintain your generator safely. Here are a few key tips you need to know: Wattage There is a maximum wattage for any portable generator that you buy. This is the maximum number of watts that the unit can handle at any given time. For example, you m... Read More

Friday, May 21, 2021

How GPS Guidance Can Improve Your Comfort and Productivity

No matter the size of the operation, more and more producers today rely on in-cab GPS guidance technology to operate efficiently. And just as important, but not as easy to measure, is the real impact operator comfort can also have on productivity. From spraying weeds to applying new seed and more, there’s more to it all than following a path with your tractor that’s straight and true. Real productivity today also means being able to monitor implement operation, as well as the rest of the world around you. That’s what delivers the total package of productivity produce... Read More

Tuesday, April 27, 2021

How and Why to Maintain a Slip Clutch

In the video accompanying this post, we’ll show you why and how you should maintain a slip clutch you might have on a PTO-driven implement. PTO-driven implements are typically used to dig, till, mow, cut, and other sorts of rough, tough work. That means you and your equipment are working in areas where obstacles like rocks, stumps, logs, and dead varmints can be hidden. Just the kind of debris that can bind up that blade or auger, and tear up a gear box or tractor PTO. That’s why those implements use a device, like a slip clutch, to limit the torque delivered to the equipment i... Read More

Tuesday, April 27, 2021

Field Preparation for Spring Planting

It’s that time of the year again, planting season. It’s time to dust off your trusty John Deere tractor and begin preparing the ground for planting. Planting season begins around March here in the Deep South meaning in order to guarantee a plentiful harvest in the fall there are several steps to take before you can put the seed in the ground. Field preparation is essentially a preparation for success. Tillage increases yields, reduces the risk for loss and in turn delivers a great return for crops. The ultimate goal of tillage is creating a level, smooth seedbed free of weeds... Read More

Thursday, March 25, 2021

How To Tear Out A Fence Row

It happens all the time in rural America. A wire fence has outlived its purpose, and needs to be taken out, fence posts and all. So here’s how to tear out a fence row. For this job, we’ll be using a John Deere 5100R Utility Tractor (US CA) with a 540R Loader (US CA), a Frontier AV20G Root Grapple (US CA), and a Frontier RB2308 Rear Blade (US CA) with end plates. We’re going to tear out a fence row that’s about 70 years old and made of wooden posts and barbed wire. It has degraded over time and is in a state of disrepair. Barbed ... Read More

Thursday, March 25, 2021

How to Use a Middle Buster in your Garden

If you have a large vegetable garden – and by large, we mean 30’ x 50’ (9 x 15 m) or so, or larger – then a middle buster will be a valuable tool for you year after year, season after season. A Frontier Middle Buster (US CA) is a really great labor- and time-saving tool for both putting in your big garden, AND, at harvest time, for digging out all those great root vegetables you’ve grown, bringing them right up to the surface. It’s compatible with a Category 1, 3-point hitch. And if you’re using a John Deere tractor with an iMatch®... Read More

Thursday, February 25, 2021

How To Control Weeds

If you have pasture for livestock – or if you have any large acreage where you want healthy vegetation to flourish – then how you control weeds is very important. Because without good weed control, you’ll reduce hay and grazing quality. In this video, we’ll take a look at the two basic ways to control weeds. Mowing and spraying. There are other pasture management practices you can also employ, but for dealing with weeds that are already there, mowing or spraying are your two best options. Option #1 – Mowing. Periodic mowing is a helpful practice if you&rsqu... Read More

Monday, February 1, 2021

Guide to Selecting the Right Mower for your Property

The winter months are nearing an end, and with that comes the hectic mowing season. When temperatures rise out of the 50s, and the grass starts turning green, you know it is time to pull out the mower. For many, this time of the year is the perfect time to upgrade your old mower. With so many mower options, how can you know which is best for you? Well, that’s where we come in! John Deere has been named 2021 America’s Most Trusted Lawn Mower Band for the second consecutive year. That is a great reason for you to trust us to keep your lawn looking in top shap... Read More

Monday, January 11, 2021

Top Implements for a John Deere Compact Utility Tractor

Have you recently purchased a John Deere Utility Tractor? Let us be the first to say congratulations! Now what? Well, let's talk about implements, most importantly, which implement you should purchase next. The first question you should ask yourself is what jobs do you want to get done around your place. Mowing? Lifting? Moving? Grading? Digging? Which implement is best for you will depend on your answer to these questions. Front-End Loader With a front-end loader, you can get max productivity out of your equipment. The front-end loader is the most versatile imp... Read More

Thursday, December 10, 2020

2020 SunSouth Gift Guide

Stumped on what to get hte family for Christmas? It's the holiday season, and SunSouth is the place to buy gifts for the whole family. Here's our 2020 SunSouth Gift Guide - we've included something for every budget and every person on your list. Gifts for Kids: Need something cool to get the kiddos? We have toys for kids of every age You could never go wrong with any of our toys for your little ones. From ages 3 months and up we have something for everyone. This year we are loving the Deluxe Vehicle Set that gives kiddos a little bit of everything to play with. Fro... Read More

Tuesday, December 8, 2020

Magic Reindeer Food

Looking to add a new CHristmas tradition to the list? We have just the thing. Magic Reindeer Food! This super easy tradition will be passed down from generation to generation. Kids get so excited to leave food for the reindeer on Christmas Eve. How To Make Magic Reindeer Food This recipe is so easy it can be done in less than 5 minutes and chances are you already have most the ingredients at home. Ingredients Needed: Oats Sprinkes Glitter Mini Ziploc Bag Instructions () Gather ingredients needed Combine all your ingredients in a bowl and mix t... Read More

Tuesday, December 1, 2020

Dear Santa

Dear Santa, For Christmas this year, all I want is Deere. John Deere, that is. I am not sure if you have seen the deals on gators, tractors, mowers, and even toys for the kids at SunSouth, but I just want to let you know I would like one of each. SunSouth offers gifts for everyone in the family. Shirts for mom, gators for dad, toys for me, and even baby stuff for little sister Sally. I have been really good this year and even helped dad work in the field using my motorized Gator. I don't think it is too much to ask to have a green Christmas in our family ... Read More

Saturday, October 31, 2020

What To Do Now That Fall Harvest Is Over

A lot has changed since 1910 when John Deere produced its first piece of harvesting equipment called the binder. Since then, John Deere has been producing harvesting equipment that goes above and beyond the standard. Fall harvest is one of the busiest seasons for a farmer. Once it is over, there is not much time for rest before preparing for the upcoming spring planting season. SunSouth is here to provide you with some things that will help you get the most out of the winter seasons to prepare for the upcoming planting season. Before storing your harvesting equipment, make ... Read More

Monday, October 12, 2020

Fun Fall Projects

Fall is the time of the year most everyone looks forward too. In the south, it means lower humidity and football. Fall is also the perfect time to tackle some gardening projects. Here are some fun projects to add to your to-do list this fall. Building a compost bin can be a great addition to your garden. Fall leaves and other yard waste make some of the best composting ingredients. You can use a plastic barrel to create a compost bin, or you could build your own from scratch. However, steer clear from treated lumber, plywood, and woods that are short-lived. Once you have your comp... Read More

Monday, August 31, 2020

Fall Food Plots Made Easy With John Deere

Labor Day is just around the corner, which means the temps will be dropping soon. Are you getting ready to plant those food plots? Food plots can be as simple or as complex as you want them to be. But you need to make sure you have the right tools. We recommend the 3032E John Deere tractor with a Frontier tiller. For the month of September, we're even offering the 3032E with 0% financing. And don't forget, this John Deere tractor is great for all of your other yard projects- not just food plots. The first step of a successful food plot is to choose your location. It's important to keep ... Read More

Friday, July 31, 2020

Lead By Example

Let's do a throwback today. Let's throw it back to when you were just a kid. What was one of the most popular questions you were asked? “What do you want to be when you grow up” is the question that immediately comes to my mind. Why is that? Why is it that we put the pressure of the future on such a small child? I have to believe it's because we have all these hopes and dreams for our children and if you don't push them to be dreamers, then will they have ambitions? This thought process was provoked last week when I was shooting a testimonial video at a loc... Read More

Wednesday, July 1, 2020

Buying Guide for Zero Turn Mowers

Summer is in full swing and your old mower is tired- it's time to get a new one. But which one? There are so many options! We carry a full inventory of tools that are made to help you tackle every chore that you face on your land. Today, we're taking a look at one tool that no lawn care professional should ever go without a quality zero-turn mower. John Deere has been honored as America's Most Trusted® Lawn Mower Brand. The Lifestory Research 2020 Study gave us the only 5 Star Trust Rating, making us the brand to ride with if you want to mow better, faster. Let's get to it! ... Read More

Friday, May 29, 2020

Investments Elicit Peace of Mind

There's one thing I think we can all agree on when it comes to being an adult… spending money isn't always fun. Yeah, it's not too bad when you first get it and it's still so new and fun. But then there comes a point where watching your money go out the door is just hard. Alright, so what am I getting at? Car tires. I needed 4 new tires for my 2018 Honda CRV the other day. It's the first set I've had to purchase as an adult- I'm only 25. So, I did my due diligence and with a little help from a friend, I finally decided on where I was going to purchase them. I called the place and... Read More

Thursday, April 30, 2020

What Day Is It

What day is it?? How many times have you asked yourself that in the last month? Almost as many times as you've heard the new phrase “social distancing” I'm guessing. Isn't it weird to think that we had never even heard of this phrase 2-3 months ago, but we hear it so many times a day now? So crazy to me. Now that we are slowly getting to come out of our “stay at home” orders, I think it's a great time to reflect on what the last couple of months have done for us. How'd you spend your time? Did you catch up on some much-needed R&R? Knock out some indoor ... Read More

WE'RE HERE TO HELP.

  • CHECK our videos below. Looking for something else?
  • DROP us a line for all inquiries. >>>