After a remarkably cool spring, planting has now started in earnest. Even though you may already be in the field, it is always a good idea to check periodically your planter to keep it at peak productivity. To help, we have compiled a list of planting tips and reminders to help keep you and your Kinze planter in the field. Even if you have started planting, these tips are still helpful – a small adjustment may have a big impact!
GRAPHITE DONE RIGHT
Standard Hoppers: Once the hoppers are full, take your bottle of graphite and make a good line around the edge of the hopper.
Bulk-Fill: We recommend using at least 1 to 2 pounds of graphite per 50 units of seed. Be sure to layer the graphite in as you fill the hoppers.
TIP: To verify you are using enough graphite, open the meter and rub your fingers over the disc, backing plate, housing etc. They should be black from graphite use. If not, add more graphite.
LET’S TALK TALC
Using talc powder is recommended when dealing with a sticky or tacky seed treatment. When using, talc requires thorough mixing since it does not sift through seed like graphite does. Even though talc powder is used for your particular seed and coating, a full rate of graphite is still required to ensure proper lubrication for the meters.
TIP: Stick your hand in the seed, make a fist and then remove it. If seed sticks to your hand, you need talc.
SETTING DOWN PRESSURE
A number of variables influence correct down pressure settings, including soil type, field conditions and planting speed.
TIP: Set the planter down, pull forward in the field and stop. Leave the planter in the ground and go back and kick the gauge wheel tires. If the gauge wheels free wheel, more down pressure is needed. If they don’t move at all, reduce down pressure.
TIP: Once you make a pass, check behind the row units and make sure you can see the entire gauge wheel imprint in the ground to ensure you have enough down pressure.
A CLOSER LOOK AT CLOSING WHEELS
You will want to make sure the closing wheels are centered over the trench. This should be verified in the field at the same time you are setting the down pressure.
TIP: Place the planter in the ground, drive ahead and stop with the planter in the ground. Go back behind the planter, inspect the closing wheel ‘V’, and make sure it is centered. If adjustment is needed, there are eccentric bushings near the closing wheel pivots that allow adjustment and centering of the wheel with the seed trench.
KNOW YOUR ROW CLEANERS
Residue in the seed trench can affect emergence. Row cleaners move residue through to ensure smooth row unit operation.
TIP: Properly set row cleaners move about one-half to two-thirds of the time — or just barely skim across the ground. Occasionally look back while going across the field to make sure the residue wheels are not turning all the time.
Reminder: Row cleaners should not be used to move dirt or be set deep enough to cause valleys in the field. During heavy rains water will run down those valleys, which could potentially wash out the seed in the trench.
HITCH AND TOOLBAR HEIGHT
Proper hitch and toolbar height are extremely important to accurate planting. Here are some TIPS to make sure you stay on the level.
- When in the planting position, ensure the hitch of the planter is level to running slightly up-hill to the tractor.
- Make sure your toolbar is level to slightly up-hill as well and adjust with hitch or wheel locations.
- Make sure the height of your toolbar is 20—22 inches (23—25 inches on a 4905 and 4705 planters) from the ground.
- Make sure parallel arms are approximately parallel to the ground when in the planting position and level accordingly with aforementioned adjustments.
- Always check toolbar height and that the planter is level in the field and fully loaded to ensure proper adjustment.
CHECK OVER PLANTER DISPLAY
TIP: Read an excellent general article on checking over planter electronics found HERE.
TIP: Make sure all displays and controllers are operating with the latest firmware found HERE.
REFER TO YOUR MANUALS
Finally, always refer to your operator’s and parts manuals for maintenance and part information, and contact your Kinze dealer with any questions you may have.
Have a safe and successful spring planting season!