The Leading Edge - Issue 34

Monitoring crops for such issues now allows you to evaluate problematic areas and eliminate the cause before next planting season. As the crop emerges, look for problem spots. Is residue preventing or hindering emergence? Has the seed trench been closed improperly or sealed completely? Do the plants appear to be planted too deep or too shallow? Such problems can be overcome with the proper selection and use of planter attachments.
There is a vast selection of planter attachments from which to choose from planting season to harvest season. Different attachments need to be selected in accordance with fluctuating soil conditions, the terrain, and the nature of the task at hand.	Fertilizer and residue manager attachments
Preparing the perfect seedbed for uniform emergence and maximum yield potential requires a strong commitment to adapting to conditions as necessary and selecting the appropriate attachments for the job. Most emergence issues can be resolved through the right combination of coulter blades, residue managers, adequately adjusted seed placement equipment, and an effective closing wheel system.
Residue managers in cornstalks	Coulter blade selection has an enormous impact on emergence and root development. The proper coulter blade will ensure ideal seed-to-soil contact and fracture soil directly around the seedling for excellent closure. Through coulter tillage techniques, the capacity of the soil to hold moisture is improved, aiding germination for uniform emergence, the key to improved yields.
In addition, the importance of effective residue managers should not be overlooked. When properly used, residue managers eliminate planter bounce and hairpinning. Ideal seed placement is also a critical factor in ensuring superior emergence. Properly positioning the seed is fundamental to developing healthy roots, minimizing stress, and producing yield. Seeds that are planted shallow tend to have root development issues, and seeds that are planted deep tend to have low or non-emergence.
Planting into residue	Failure to properly select and adjust a closing wheel system will also negatively impact emergence and yield potential. If the seed trench is not closed properly, then all previous efforts to improve yield will be pointless. There are a wide variety of closing products currently available on the market to prevent such misfortune.
Effective closing wheels gently firm the soil around the seed, leaving loose soil above the seed for ideal seed-to-soil contact; elimination of soil crusting and air pockets; and fast even emergence. Spiked closing wheels and drag chains are two of the more popular choices today. Improperly adjusted closing wheels could cause sidewall compaction and uneven stands. Adjust the spring pressure on the closing wheels according to soil type and moisture. Correctly adjusted spring pressure should eliminate air pockets in the seed furrow and cover the seed without creating compaction on top of the seed.
In addition to the right planter attachments, it is also critical to assess frame height and levelness of the planter in order to achieve healthy, uniform emergence. This adjustment is absolutely fundamental in achieving the desired planting depth. Be sure to visually check the depth of seed placement, as well.	Fertilizer Coulter


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Notice – The information contained in this guide is offered in good faith by Yetter Mfg. Co., Inc. to further the understanding of no-till farming. However, the use of the information provided is beyond the control of Yetter Mfg. Co., Inc. and in no case shall Yetter Mfg. Co., Inc. or any seller of its products be responsible for any damages which may occur from the use of this information. All such risks shall be assumed by the user.