The Importance of Maintenance

 

The foundation of Jason's approach is ensuring that every piece of equipment is mechanically sound before any advanced technology is added. He stresses, “Before we start to add the major technology, we need to make sure that our maintenance is up to date on our planters and that everything mechanically is running as it should.” This principle is grounded in the understanding that no amount of technology can compensate for poor maintenance.

 

The Basics: Zeroing the Depth

 

One of the most critical yet often overlooked aspects of planter maintenance is zeroing the depth. Jason explains, “Who understands zeroing the depth on a planter? When we talk about zeroing the depth on a planter, who understands what it is and who does it, and who realizes how easy it is to actually do?” This process involves ensuring that every row unit on the planter is set to plant at the same depth, despite variations caused by wear and tear.

 

To zero the depth, Jason advises using two blocks of the same size to support the gauge wheels and adjusting the planter until the parallel arms are level with the ground. Then, mark the position of the T-handle with a paint pen or Dremel. This becomes the new zero point for the row-unit, ensuring consistent planting depth across all rows.

 

The Impact of Consistent Depth

 

The importance of consistent planting depth cannot be overstated. Jason notes, “If this row is planting at 6 centimeters and the row next to it is planting at 8 centimeters because of wear on your gauge wheel that you haven’t zeroed out, that maize will come up later and will emerge unevenly.” Uneven emergence leads to competition among plants, reducing yield potential. 

 

A difference of just 24 hours in germination can result in a 12% yield loss, making the consistency of planting depth crucial for maximizing yield.

Seed Disc Spacing and Gauge Wheel Adjustments

 

Beyond zeroing the depth, Jason highlights the significance of seed disc spacing. Proper spacing ensures that the discs form a V-shaped furrow, which is essential for even seed placement and germination. Inconsistent spacing can create air pockets, leading to uneven emergence and yield loss. Jason recommends a simple method to check spacing using a business card to ensure a 5-7 centimeter contact point.

 

Gauge wheel adjustments are another key area. Jason prefers narrow gauge wheels for their ability to form a proper furrow and prevent dry soil from contaminating the seed bed. He stresses the importance of eliminating any play in the gauge wheel arms to maintain consistent depth and soil contact.

 

The ROI of Maintenance

 

In times of economic strain, focusing on maintenance can provide the best return on investment. Jason asserts, “This is actually the least amount of money that I can spend to get the biggest ROI at the end of the day.” By prioritizing maintenance, farmers can avoid costly yield losses and improve overall efficiency without significant financial outlay.

 

Embracing Precision Planting Technology

 

While the foundation is maintenance, Jason acknowledges the benefits of integrating precision planting technology. Products from companies like Precision Planting can help overcome some of the inherent maintenance challenges, offering solutions like adjustable gauge wheel arms and advanced bushings to reduce wear.

 

Jason’s advice resonates with the core philosophy of precision farming: getting the basics right to make the most of advanced technology. By focusing on meticulous maintenance practices, farmers can ensure their planters perform at their best, leading to healthier crops and higher yields. As Jason puts it, “It’s actually just taking our time. We haven’t spent a cent yet. It’s just a matter of putting in the effort to sort it out.”