By Jamie Martin
Planters and drills are essential tools for planting crops. Planters handle large seeds like corn and soybeans, while drills are used for small grains, cover crops, and forages. Planters provide precise seed depth and spacing, whereas drills are simpler but less exact.
Maintaining equipment before planting saves time and protects yield. In no-till farming, planters and drills must handle crop residue, penetrate firm soil, open a seed slot, place seeds correctly, and close the slot without compacting the soil. Poor maintenance can lead to uneven seed depth, skips, doubles, or compacted soil.
During winter, inspect planter metering units for wear, dirt, or cracks. Vacuum or air meters should have correct pressure. Planter units must be stable, and seed hoppers intact. Check seed opener disks, seed tubes, seed firmers, depth wheels, coulters, row cleaners, and closing wheels for damage or wear. Fertilizer units, chains, sprockets, tires, and electrical connections should also be maintained.
Drill maintenance includes checking coulters, disk openers, seed firmers, depth control wheels, press wheels, and seed tubes. Chains and sprockets need proper tension and lubrication. Replace worn or damaged parts to ensure consistent seeding.
Store planters and drills in a dry location to prevent rodent damage and equipment deterioration. Cleaning, lubricating, and repairing parts during winter ensures equipment is ready for planting, leading to uniform seed placement and improved crop yields.
Some Points to Remember:
- Planters offer precise planting; drills are simpler but effective.
- Winter maintenance prevents delays and yield loss.
- Inspect metering units, seed tubes, disks, and wheels.
- Ensure no-till planting equipment can handle heavy residue.
- Store equipment dry and rodent-free for long-term durability.
Photo Credit: istock-pkujiahe
Categories: National