Reese Aitchison Seedmatic 40 D Series, Manual

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LAYMANS GUIDE TO SEEDING VARIANCE
The Aitchison Sponge Seed Delivery System is a highly accurate, consistent and
gentle method for delivery of seeds. We are pleased you chose to make use of our
technology. To get started, we have created the attached seed charts. They are guides
that will in many cases allow you to start with reasonable accuracy.
Along with these charts you will also need to know how to compensate for variations
in seeds. We are fortunate to have many companies that are constantly providing new
varieties of seed; however, this also makes any seed chart a GUIDE ONLY. Use the
rules listed below when suitable, and when you need more accuracy consider the
following:
The seed count may be different; the coatings on the seed may be different; the
humidity can be different; the seed size due to cultivars may be different; the moisture
content of the seeds may be different; the seed may be husked or still have it’s beard;
and other differences which could affect the seeding rate.
Example
Temperate charts were calibrated for Ryegrass. Line 1 on Range 1 was calibrated at
an ambient temperature of 64
o
F (18
o
C). Moisture content of the seed was 14%. The
1000 seed count was 0.07 ounce (2 grams) and the seeds were approx ¼” long
(6.6mm) by 1/16” wide (1.5mm). There were no coatings or dressings and was
cleaned of gin trash.
Note also that all seeds used on original chart were uncoated.
As it is unlikely your sample will directly match the above we suggest calibration at
all times. Below are some general guidelines on what influences will affect you
seeding.
SEED SIZE: Small seeds flow faster
SEED COATING: Fungicides that are dull and sticky will slow seeding rates.
TEMPERATURE: Cold will slow seeding rates, heat will increase seeing rates.
HUMIDITY: High humidity slows sowing rates, dry increase sowing rates.
SEED MIXTURE: Sowing small round seeds with flat long seeds, i.e. ryegrass and
clover, the rate of the small seeds could significantly increase.
WHEEL DIAMETER: On cultivated soil slippage will reduce sowing rate.
RECORD PREVIOUS RESULTS: Keep a note book and record for future reference,
mixtures, conditions and setting chosen.
Think in four quarters not the whole paddock. When the hopper runs out (1/4
paddock) check your rate back from the area covered.
REMEMBER: ALWAYS CALIBRATE BEFORE SEEDING!!!