Also known as ‘Direct Drills’, ‘Box Drills’, or ‘Combines’, Seed Drills are used to plant a diverse range of seed - most commonly oats, lucernes, and grasses - for pasture renovation (providing quality feed for animals) on small to medium, mixed or pastoral farms.
WHAT DO SEED DRILLS DO?
Seed Drills can ‘direct drill’ seed into the residues of previous crops without previous cultivation. This minimal soil disruption technique is known as ‘no-till’ or ‘zero-till’ farming popular in Australia.
A seed drill plants seeds at precise depths and intervals in the soil. It ensures that seeds are sown evenly across a field, which is crucial for optimal crop growth. Modern seed drills, like an Agrowdrill, come equipped with features that enhance their efficiency and reliability.
HOW DO SEED DRILLS WORK?
Seed drills generally have a dual-hopper design that enables the separation of seed and fertiliser before being ‘banded’ together during sowing. Seed is drawn via gravity into rollers that are directly driven by an infinitely variable gearbox connected via clutch to the machine’s wheels or by an electric drive motor.
Seed drills require calibration before operation to ensure the correct ‘seeding rate’ (ie: seeds per hectare), depending on the different sized seed variety and/or desired outcomes.
Seed drills can be raised or lowered via tractor hydraulics to remotely engage or disengage the seeding mechanisms.
Optional presswheels or soil rollers can be fitted to, or trailed behind the seed drill, to flatten the soil and lightly press or cover the seed into the soil.
The History of Seed Drills
Ancient Beginnings: The concept of the seed drill dates back to ancient China and Mesopotamia, where rudimentary tools were used to plant seeds.
Jethro Tull’s Innovation: In the early 18th century, English agriculturist Jethro Tull developed the first mechanical seed drill, revolutionising farming by increasing crop yields and reducing labour.
Modern Advancements: Today's seed drills are sophisticated machines that integrate precision agriculture technologies, ensuring uniform seed distribution and optimal soil health.
WHY USE A SEED DRILL? 🌱
The primary use of a seed drill is to plant crops efficiently and effectively to achieve optimal crop establishment and growth. By planting crops, farmers aim to:
✅ Produce Quality Feed for Livestock: Planting crops like grasses, legumes, and other forages provides high-quality feed for livestock, which is essential for maintaining healthy and productive animals.
✅Maximise Agricultural Yield: Efficiently planted crops ensure better germination and growth, leading to higher yields and more profitable harvests, or higher price for their beef or lamb.
✅Ensure Food Security: Planting crops is crucial for producing food for human consumption, supporting both local and global food supplies.
The above pastoral field was sown by an AD230 Agrowdrill. Photo Credit: Hobbs Livestock
Benefits of Using a Seed Drill:
Precision Planting:
Consistent Depth and Spacing: Seed drills plant seeds at a uniform depth and spacing, promoting even germination and growth.
Reduced Seed Waste: By placing seeds accurately, seed drills minimise wastage and ensure that every seed has the best chance to grow.
Increased Crop Yields:
Optimal Seed Bed Preparation: Seed drills prepare the soil to the ideal conditions for seedling establishment.
Efficient Use of Resources: Properly spaced seeds utilise nutrients, water, and sunlight more effectively, leading to healthier crops and higher yields.
Labour and Time Savings:
Automated Planting: Seed drills significantly reduce the manual labour required for planting, allowing farmers to cover larger areas in less time.
Precision and Speed: Modern seed drills can be calibrated for different seed types and field conditions, enhancing planting efficiency.
Soil Health and Conservation:
Minimal Soil Disturbance: Seed drills disturb the soil less than traditional planting methods, preserving soil structure and reducing erosion.
Conservation Agriculture: Using seed drills aligns with conservation agriculture principles, promoting sustainable farming practices.
Soil Type and Conditions: Different seed drills are designed for various soil types and conditions. Ensure the machine you choose is suitable for your specific needs.
Seed Variety: Make sure the seed drill can handle the type and size of seeds you plan to plant.
Technological Features: Look for seed drills with advanced features like GPS guidance, variable rate seeding, and seed monitoring systems to maximise efficiency.
AUSSIE FARMERS CHOOSE AGROWDRILL
Agrowdrill seed drills are popular amongst Australian farmers for their quality, reliability, and versatility in a range on soil conditions.
When it comes to choosing between a tyne or disc opener for your seed drill, each option comes with its own set of advantages and considerations. In this article we compare the pros and cons and discover which options are best suited to certain conditions.
In this guide, we explore the important factors to consider before undertaking the significant process of deep ripping. By understanding these elements, you can maximize the benefits of deep ripping for your farm.
Deep ripping can lead to increased crop yields and healthier soil. In this article, we explore the benefits of deep ripping for improved crop productivity.
The above pastoral field was sown by an AD230 Agrowdrill. Photo Credit: Hobbs Livestock
