Planting remains a crucial field operation establishing maximum yield potential. Mistakes or poor planter performance can reduce yield potential. Variables such as seed spacing, seeding depth and optimizing seedbed preparation for proper soil-to-seed contact are important to achieving potential yields. Proper planter maintenance and setup are fundamental to get ready for spring planting. Purdue University research indicated that a 2bu/ac decrease in corn yield for every inch in standard deviation of seed spacing, plus there can be yield loss with poor emergence and non-even stands. With tight margins and high seed costs, one cannot afford to get seeds placed improperly.
Want to hear from the experts? Plan to attend Planter University, February 28th at the Beck’s PFR site near London, Ohio. Great lineup of university and industry speakers presenting on a variety topics focused on planting. $50 registration (http://go.osu.edu/PlanterU) includes breakfast, lunch, and CCA credits.
Topics include planter setups, meter performance, downforce technology, ground engaging attachments, compaction, new technology to monitor planter performance, starter fertilizer, UAVs and much more, all with focus on improving seed placement and emergence.
· Planter Setup for Maximizing Yield Potential, Bill Lehmkuhl, Precision Agri Services
· UAVs & Imagery for Planting Evaluations, Jim Love, Beck’s Hybrids
· Meter, Downforce and other Technologies, Dustin Christofferson, South Dakota Wheat Growers
· Seed and Nutrient Placement to Maximize Profit, Doug Wiegand, Precision Planting
· Rapid-Fire Breakout Sessions
o Compaction / Tracks - Dr. Scott Shearer, Ohio State University
o Fertilizer Placement at Planting - Ryan McAllister, Beck's Hybrids
o Electronic Drive Technology – Dr. Matt Darr, Iowa State University
o Data Needs for Supporting Planting Decisions - Dave Scheiderer, Integrated Ag
· Panel Discussion facilitated by Dr. Randy Taylor of Oklahoma State University with comments on the “Future of Planting Technology"
Register at http://go.osu.edu/PlanterU or call Champaign County Extension at 937-484-1526. Great opportunity to gain valuable insight before heading to the field