jwehrspann, Senior Editor

December 19, 2012

1 Min Read

If it has been a few years since you’ve shopped for a planter, a whole new generation of automated features awaits you. Here are just a few of the latest technologies that are automating the task of planting corn and soybeans. You'll see examples of each of these in our January issue.

  1. Automatic swath control: Also called section- or point-row control, the technology automatically interrupts the flow of seed being planted to prevent planting of the same ground twice.

  2. Automatic down-force control: Puts even down pressure on planter row units to ensure uniform seed depth across the width of the planter for optimum seed placement.

  3. Automatic ground hardness sensor: Measures hardness of the soil on-the-go and makes depth adjustments just before the seed is planted. 

  4. Variable-rate planting: System that automatically adjusts seeding rates based on GPS field maps of soil properties and yield history.

  5. Varied-hybrid planting: System that varies the type of seed planted based on GPS field maps of soil properties and yield history.

  6. Bin-level monitoring: Measures seed levels in seed tanks and shuts down delivery when bin is full.

  7. Implement steering: GPS-based control system that guides the planter down the row with sub-inch precision to keep seed and fertilizer placement on track.

About the Author(s)

jwehrspann

Senior Editor, Farm Industry News

Jodie has been a journalist for 15 years, specializing in machinery, technology and precision farming. Prior to Farm Industry News, she worked as a research analyst/editor for Rockwood Research, the former research arm of Farm Journal Media.

Jodie has won numerous writing awards including the Master Writer Program Award, Level IV, from the American Agricultural Editor's Association (AAEA). She has also been recognized for her technical writing skills by the American Society of Business Publication Editors and the Minnesota Magazines and Publications Association. Jodie is an active member of AAEA and currently serves on the board.

A former native of Montevideo, MN, Jodie earned a B.A. degree from the University of Minnesota and a Masters degree in Business Communications from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, MN.

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