VR Seeding

Different areas of a field vary in their ability to germinate seed and carry plants through to maturity. Issues such as compaction, nutrient availability and salinity have a negative effect on germination numbers. These areas typically end up with thinner stands limiting yields and opening the door to other problems such as increased weed pressures.

A soil's ability to carry a specific plant population to maturity also varies with topography, moisture availability and soil texture. Eroded hilltops and sandy soils have less moisture available throughout the season and cannot support higher plant populations limiting both yield and quality.

Target optimal plant populations for higher yields.

Plant populations can be lowered in areas that typically run out of moisture later in the season. The benefit is lower seed costs and higher quality grain. Conversely, seeding rates can be increased in areas with an ability to sustain higher populations such as heavy clay soils. Higher seeding rates can also help with germination in areas affected by salinity or compaction.