Drill seeding can be a viable option for weed control and input reduction (lower cost pre-emergent herbicides can be applied after the initial flush of water needed for seed germination. The use of airplanes can be eliminated while making the procedure an entirely on-farm operation. The benefits and drawbacks are as follows:
Savings
- A no-till approach saves tractor work
- Slightly lower water use for farms with limited supply
- Reduction in normal input costs
- Penalties and Drawbacks
- Late Spring rains can complicate implementation
- Yields may be reduced to 6-7 sacks/acre
- Steep learning curve during first few seasons of implementation
- Startup costs, i.e., equipment costs
Drill seeding has the potential to open a new toolchest of options for weed control. Weeds can be controlled with lower herbicide costs, the tadpole shrimp and rice water weevil pressure is eliminated, and wind drift no longer affects seed establishment.
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The 1999 data is available by clicking here. |
For links to manufacturers of drillseeding equipment, see the list below.
The use of trade names in the list above does not constitute a manufacturer endorsement. The list is merely a starting place for those interested in researching costs and benefits of drillseeding equipment.
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