Accurate singulation and seed placement are critical to maximizing corn yield. A planter that is properly maintained and set up will help optimize accuracy but changing field conditions and seed sizes will require in-field adjustments. To help farmers optimize planter performance we have compiled these recommendations from several equipment manufacturers.
Vacuum Settings
One of the most important in-field adjustments that influences singulation is planter vacuum settings. Seed size and weight varies by hybrid, but any seed can be planted accurately when adjusted properly. In general, too much vacuum results in doubles while not enough vacuum results in skips. The increased prevalence of accurate seed monitoring sensors on planters means singulation issues are identified in real-time, allowing the operator to fine-tune settings on the fly to improve singulation and maximize yield potential. A summary of manufacturer recommended settings can be found in Table 2.
Seed Lubricant
Most planter manufacturers recommend using a seed lubricant like talc or graphite. Seed lubricants should be added in layers while loading the planter to ensure even coverage.
Talc is good at attracting moisture and preventing clumping or bridging due to moisture while also providing some dry lubrication.
Graphite is a dry lubricant helpful for metal on metal meter components. Graphite is also conductive, meaning it helps to prevent clumping due to static electricity buildup in the plastic center fill hoses.
Equipment suggestions for seed lubricants are listed in Table 1. Consulting your owner’s manual is important to ensure proper use and rates.
Seed Storage Prior to Planting
Another important factor to ensure accurate and trouble-free planting is weather and seed storage conditions. While it is always important to store seed in a dry place, high humidity can still cause issues with flowability at planting. Some key considerations about weather and seed storage:
- In humid conditions, additional talc is required to help dry seed and minimize bridging and flowability problems.
- The most severe issues occur when planting occurs in warm, humid conditions when the seed is still cool. If seed is cool when it comes out of storage, the humid conditions will cause condensation on the seed, creating flowability problems.
- Steps to acclimate seed in these conditions will help minimize issues. Staging seed in a heated shop or in warm sunshine helps to warm seed and prevent condensation or evaporate any condensation that has formed.
- In severe instances additional talc helps but too much can create bread dough. In these severe cases graphite is required to improve flowability.
