Drills in action at the Hutchinsons/ CAS demonstration in autumn 2022.

Plant counts taken after establishment and in the spring have revealed some interesting differences between drills that might help farmers decide which machine is right for their needs.

“When it comes to deciding which drill to buy, or cover crop to sow, there is clearly no one-size-fits-all answer,” agronomist Daniel Baron explained. “Every farm, field and soil is different, and everyone has their preferred brand, not to mention budget.”

“We wanted to trial several types of disc and tine drills and look at differences in wheat establishment as well as looking at the impact of a starter fertiliser.”

Mr Baron said the high rainfall in the north-west is one of the biggest challenges to crop establishment, with the region receiving an average of 900mm rain per year.

At the same time, cover crops can help pull moisture out of the soil and dry out the ground to widen the drilling window. “It all comes down to being able to get onto the fields to drill in the autumn,” Mr Baron added.

The 10 ha field for the trial, previously growing potatoes, was divided into sections of just under one hectare, with each section drilled with three types of cover crops using a range of different drill systems. The three cover crops established in August were:

• Maxi Cover- Buckwheat, white mustard and berseem clover- Designed for rapid growth
• Maxi Veg- Linseed, buckwheat phacelia and crimson clover
• Maxi Impact- Sunflowers, linseed, buckwheat, phacelia, crimson clover and berseem clover

On 15^th September, Extase winter wheat was drilled at 168kg/ha, aiming for 330 seeds/m² and 20% field loss to give 260 plants/m2.

“We also wanted to look at the effect that a starter fertiliser such as Primary P would have on the crop, so for the plots drilled with the Horsch, Avatar, Sky, Mzuri and Claydon drills, 10kg/ha of Primary P was used on half the plot,” Mr Baron added.

By 19^th October, the team noticed some clear differences in establishment, indicated that disc drills coped better than tine drills in general with high residue levels.

“Looking at individual drill performance, the Horsch Avatar had the best average establishment in and the Kverneland U Drill did an excellent job even though not marketed as a direct drill,” Mr Baron noted.

“Most noticeably, Primary P had a significant impact on establishment with a 20-30% improvement over those plots that did not receive any. Plant counts were taken again in mid-February and there was still a clear benefit from those trials that received the Primary-P.”

The results of the trials are plotted on the graph below:

Mr Baron said final conclusions will be drawn once the complete picture has been obtained following harvest.

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The lightweight design of the new Megant 602R allows the drill to be operated by tractors as small as 150 horsepower, making it an attractive option for many farmers. The machine is similar in functionality to the previous 600 model, but features half-width shut off and can be equipped with an additional 110-litre SH1120 hopper.

The three types of tines compatible with the Megant include straight, reversible forward action, and a new narrow 12mm straight tine coulter featuring carbide plated points to reduce wear and improved soil penetration.

The Megant is also suitable for tractors with or without Isobus thanks to its new VT 30 terminal, which comes with a shockproof casing, large buttons, and an ergonomic design to improve durability and ease of use.

What’s more, the machine is compatible with both Kuhn CC1 800-1200 and other ISOBUS terminals, making the drill more accessible and economical for all users.

The 602R model retains some features from the larger Espro drill designed for dry conditions, such as spring-loaded nonstop track eradicators and side markers. Moreover, the riveted hopper on the previous model has been replaced by an improved 1800-litre hopper with the capacity of holding 1,200kg of wheat and drilling 60 hectares per day.

The new hopper also features internal steps to improve access to the distribution head and a shut off door that allows operators to separate the two compartments. This leaves room for the metering unit to be adjusted when the hopper is full and helps eliminate residual seed in the unit when the machine is in transit.

Lastly, the new Megant has been fitted with Kuhn Vistaflow valves that can be configured and controlled from the terminal, allowing operators to determine the rate of seed flow and save settings for the future. Vistaflow even records tramlining configurations to enable more accurate use of sprayers and fertiliser spreaders and ultimately reduce input costs.

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Weaving introduced new Sabre tine drills at LAMMA 2020. The new models were completely redesigned but retained the manufacturer’s simple and proven tine coulters. “The Sabre drill works well in almost any conditions,” explained sales director Simon Weaving. “When conditions are suitable, it can direct-drill to minimise soil movement, but it works equally well on ploughed or pre-cultivated ground – so it’s often regarded as a half-way house between minimum tillage and conventional crop establishment.”

With the addition of new, larger versions this spring – the Sabre line-up includes 3.0, 4.8, 6.0. 6.4, 7.2 and 8.0m working widths. They all feature a graphite grey plastic hopper which replaced the previous steel unit – saving 200kg but retaining the 1.5t seed capacity. All models have four rows of tines, with an extended 1.2m calming area halfway along the tine bank between the second and third rows. The 12mm tines have tungsten tips and seed is delivered through stainless steel tubes at the rear. The four row tine layout results in tines spaced at 500mm within each row for excellent trash flow. The previous Sabre drill had three sections across the working width, and the outer two folded upwards for transport, but the latest model has only two sections carried on overhead linkages. Each side can move independently up to six degrees side-to-side and front-to-back around the central depth wheels, allowing them to adapt to uneven terrain.

Seeding depth is easily set by fitting coloured shims which restrict the depth wheel movement. A wide-spaced zig-zag tine harrow at the rear ensures good seed coverage and leaves a level surface but allows trash to flow through.

The 8m drill is fully mounted, allowing bout to bout working for maximum efficiency and making it easy to drill around obstructions and into corners.

All-weather solution

“It’s almost impossible to block the drill now,” continued Simon. “With more cover crops, more farms moving towards direct drilling and more trash to deal with – our range of Sabre drills is future-proofed, and ideal for those ‘feeling’ their way into direct-drilling while also being suitable for conventional establishment regimes. Growers don’t want drills which might mean they are caught out if seasons are too wet or too dry, and if the latest Sabre drill won’t work then a power-harrow combination drill wouldn’t work either. In a season when it’s too wet for large, trailed air drills then it’s best if heavy, high-horsepower tractors are kept off the fields too, and even the widest 8m version is easily pulled by tractors of only 280–300hp.”

Fully mounted convenience

Like the smaller models, the 8m Sabre drill is fully mounted. It has a bigger frame to cope with the extra weight and stresses, and Cat 4 linkage mounts are standard.

The Weaving metering system is controlled by RDS Isocan, and Isobus compatibility is an option. Hydraulic switching is on the drill, so only two hydraulic service connections to the tractor are needed.

The 8m Sabre drill is available to order now for spring 2023 delivery and Simon believes its main customers will be those wanting to move towards reduced-disturbance or direct-drilling seeding regimes as well as those currently using 8m and 12m conventional drills and not wanting  to sacrifice working width just because conditions turn wet.

“It’s simple, effective, it’s good value to buy and to run, and it will do the job it’s bought for,” added Simon. “It will also help reduce fuel use for many farms which is a significant attraction with prices currently so high.”

Filling the Sabre drill is easy. A convenient rear platform with proper steps provides safe access.

First 8m delivered

Trading as Shelton Estates Ltd, and based at Shelton, near Northampton, the Beers family farms approximately 1,150ha of arable crops. The land is either owned or farmed on tenancy agreements and soils are mainly heavy clay loams but there are also areas of sand and stone. The family manages the enterprise as three separate farm businesses, although most of the machinery is shared.

The challenging land means that mounted tine drills are favoured, and a fleet of three includes the new 8m Weaving. “Tine drills suit our land well, and mounted versions are preferred for their ability to continue working in conditions where trailed drills would struggle. Where it is particularly wet, they can be eased out of the ground to continue working. Mounted drills also offer greater convenience for working around field obstructions and into tight corners,” explained the new drill’s main operator Tom Beers, who works with his father Peter, Uncle William, and grandfather Gerald, running the farm.

Reduced tillage solution

Black-grass is a constant issue, and stale seedbeds are created to keep on top of the weed. A minimal tillage establishment regime has replaced ploughing for most crops, and the only preparation prior to drilling is either subsoiling by one of two 3.8m Flatliners fitted with Weaving low-disturbance points, or disc cultivation by an 8m Horsch Joker.

Higher work rates

As well as the new 8m Sabre tine drill, the farm has a similar 6m model purchased last year.  The farm also has a 6m drill of another brand, which has been converted for operation with Weaving tine coulters.

“We like having an 8m drill for the higher work rate,” continued Tom. “The new Weaving Sabre replaced our previous Weaving 8m tine drill which still worked well after seven seasons. We like to replace our equipment while it is still in good condition and capable of attracting a good price as a trade in. After buying one of the first of the new design 6m Sabre drills last year and being impressed by its performance, we asked Weaving to supply the larger 8m version as soon as possible, and so far it’s proving equally good.”

The Weaving Sabre drill uses Weaving’s proven tine design, but an extra row of tines allows wider spacing and more room for trash than previous versions.

Useful upgrades

The 8m Sabre drill was delivered in mid-March and went straight to work establishing spring crops. “The previous model with three tine rows worked well, but the extra clearance and open design of the four-row version is an improvement, and we have seen this on both our 6m drill last autumn and the newer 8m model too. It’s easier to see all the tines, and if coulters become blocked then this is quickly noticed as seed spills out of the vents.

The zig-zag harrow is another improvement. Our new 6m Sabre drill was used last autumn in wet conditions and the harrow remained clean, in conditions where a press roller might have blocked with sticky oat straw residues. The harrow is effective, seed is covered, the surface is left level and it’s suitable for all weathers.”

Tom and Peter Beers with Simon Weaving and the new 8m Sabre drill used to establish spring crops on the Beers’ Northamptonshire farm this year.

User-friendly and cost-effective

Tom said that the two Sabre drills share additional features making them even more user-friendly than the previous model. With the two sides folded into the transport or storage position they create a stand, leaving the base of the drill hopper and metering system fully accessible with plenty of clearance for the operator to work safely underneath. The access is also an advantage if the hopper needs emptying as there is space to fit a large container or sack underneath.

Operating costs are low. The low power requirement saves fuel and the only soil wearing parts are the tine points, and seed tubes located at the rear of the coulters – both of which are easily and quickly changed. There are no discs or disc bearings to replace.

The farm operates the 8m Sabre drill behind a John Deere 8370RT twin-track crawler, and Tom commented that the tractor has more than enough power and handles it easily on the heavy land at speeds up to 13kph. During the short spring drilling season, average work rates of 40ha in typical eight-hour days were achieved, and up to 60ha when working days were extended and conditions were good.

Flexible drilling

“The latest Weaving Sabre drills are even more resistant to blocking than the previous models but retain the simple tine coulter design which works so well in all conditions,” said Peter Beers. “Operating two 6m drills plus the 8m version suits us as it gives us great flexibility. Both working widths are compatible with our 24m tramlines, but the wider drill gives us higher work rates and reduces the number of wheelings. The two 6m drills can be used with our smaller tractors, and the 8m model is well matched to our twin-track crawler. With all three working, we can achieve a lot of drilling in a day.

“We find the Weaving team very easy to work with and the company values our feedback and is always interested in how we get on with the products.”

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Farmer Harry Horrell (right) with the farm’s Farmacy agronomist Andrew Buckberry.

Variable rate drilling is just one of many tools in the box when it comes to improving crop performance and farm profitability. However, perceived high costs of investing in the machinery and technology needed can be off-putting. Harry Horrell farms at Thorney, near Peterborough and when he wanted to adjust drilling rates to achieve more even establishment, he converted two old drills rather than buying new.

Trading as C Horrell Ltd, the Horrell family farms approximately 485ha of arable crops, as well as 65ha of grass on which a herd of 130–140 pedigree Shorthorn cattle are grazed. Winter wheat is the main arable crop, along with oilseed rape, spring beans, and hybrid winter rye and maize which are both grown as biomass for a local anaerobic digester.

The land is a mix of owned and some on FBTs in five main blocks and includes a wide range of soil types. “We have areas where the soil ranges from black fen to clay loam within individual fields, and we also have gravel, sandy loam and silty loams,” explained partner Harry Horrell. “We moved from ploughing to a reduced tillage establishment regime, then to direct drilling three years ago.”

A cost-effective change to targeted seed rates was achieved by fitting the Hutchinsons Omnia E-Seed conversion kit.

Tailored seed rates

Omnia Connect was used to achieve variable rate drilling with the farm’s Vaderstad Rapid drill for several years previously, but the Horsch CO6 drill purchased to work within the reduced tillage regime wasn’t compatible. Reduced soil movement was the priority, so a temporary solution was achieved by a uniform 10% seed rate increase across the farm. However, different soil types achieved different establishment results so crops were uneven, and Harry later moved to a system through which seed rates were chosen to suit cropping blocks, as these each had dominant soil types.

Affordable conversion

Black-grass is a widespread problem in the region and techniques adopted by Harry to tackle it included delaying drilling, but also increasing seed rates in areas of high populations to increase crop competition and stifle the weed. The farm’s drill control box allowed the operator to increase the seed rate by 10% at the touch of a button. This worked, but lacked flexibility and relied on operator accuracy and concentration.

Harry is a Hutchinsons Omnia subscriber, and he worked with the Hutchinsons team to develop an affordable drill control which could also be made available to other farms. A prototype based on existing technology and using a spreader app for control was tested for 12 months, then a dedicated Omnia E-Seed app was created and trialled.

The Omnia E-Seed kit allows any drill with mechanical metering to be adapted for variable rate drilling using the Hutchinsons E-Seed app. An electric motor replaces the standard land-wheel drive, and a WiFi link allows wireless control from an iPad. The E-Seed conversion kit includes the drive motor, fan speed sensor, brackets, wiring and control boxes and is typically fitted on farm in half a day.

Highlighting issues

The farm’s agronomist, Andrew Buckberry of Farmacy, worked with Harry developing the farm’s variable seeding system. Hutchinsons Omnia Precision Agronomy service allows subscribers to use multiple layers of field and crop data to analyse and improve crop performance and this provided the data on which to create the seeding plans.

“When considering variable seed rates, looking at yield maps is a good starting point,” explained Andrew. “These give a general idea and highlight issues such as rabbit or slug damage. High and low yielding areas viewed on field maps usually create shapes, and these frequently tie in with areas where soil types are different. It’s not a full guide, but it highlights areas where issues could be investigated.”

Harry reckons that Omnia provides so many layers of information that deciding on a strategy becomes too complex, so he and Andrew select the most relevant information based on their knowledge of the farm. These include historic yield data, soil type, slug populations, and areas where black-grass is a problem, and a terra map has also been added this year for the first time. The sprayer operator and other members of the farm team have the Omnia Scout app on their phones and they photograph and log anything that they believe might be relevant through the year. The new information is automatically added to the Omnia field data allowing this to be considered when deciding drilling rates too.

“Omnia can analyse it all, but we also apply common sense. In areas of high gravel content, we know that if there is moisture, establishment numbers will be high, for example,” Harry stressed.

High rates effective

Wheat drilling rates start at 400 seeds/m2 and increase to 490 seeds/m2 in areas where black-grass pressure or slug populations are particularly high. Harry said that using high rates is effective, but it’s just one of several strategies needed to fight resistant grass weeds along with delayed drilling and targeted drilling techniques. “We also start harvesting where black-grass populations are lowest in a field, then work away from them to avoid transporting seeds and spreading the problem, and the contractor does the same for us when baling,” he added.

Most of the straw is used for resident livestock, but where black-grass populations are higher the straw is baled and sold for use in a power station to remove the seeds from the farm.

Cover crops

Since moving to direct drilling, the only cultivation is sub-soiling when needed. Cover and catch crops were trialled, but Harry said catch crops planted after oilseed rape have struggled to compete with oilseed rape volunteers, so it was decided to retain these as a cheaper form of ground cover instead. Cover crops have proved more successful. “The main advantage we get from cover crops is the root network,” continued Harry. “But they keep the sun and wind off the soil which means it doesn’t dry out as quickly. When we plant direct into cover crops the soil structure holds together well, and our fertiliser application timings are better as we can get on the land sooner after the winter.”

Successful regime change

Harry said that since moving to direct-drilling, less machinery has been needed and diesel use has reduced by 50%. The farm team is under less time pressure during September which was previously one of the busiest months for cultivations and seedbed preparation. The Horsch drill does most of the late autumn drilling of cereals and cover crops where the Dutch openers create useful tilth, then a more recently purchased John Deere 750A disc drill cuts through mulch to establish the spring crops. The 750A is also preferred for areas where black-grass is an issue for its reduced soil disturbance. Both drills have Omnia E-Seed kits for variable rate seeding.

Farmer Harry Horrell says the Omnia E-Seed kit allows older drills to achieve exactly the same variable rate seeding to new drills and for a fraction of the cost.

Accurate mapping

The entire farm has been accurately mapped including all field boundaries and conservation areas, and RTK guidance is used. Harry said that Omnia has made it easy to create maps for variable rate drilling, and then these are sent to the drill operator for activation. Both drills have identical controls, making it easier for any operator to use either drill. The E-Seed app doesn’t allow tramline creation, but these aren’t needed as RTK guidance ensures that the sprayer and spreader travel on the same ground every year.

“Omnia links easily to Muddy Boots software and all our employees have the Scout app and log any issues they notice while spraying or spreading. It’s about attention to detail to achieve a better result and everyone has a role to play which makes every job more important.”

Savings outweigh costs

“Where we previously increased seed rates for whole fields, now patches where there are known issues such as black-grass or high slug populations are targeted,” explained Andrew. “When we moved to direct drilling we increased seed rates across the farm to compensate, and we succeeded in maintaining yields at previous levels rather than suffering a decline as might have been expected. This was despite unfavourable weather and ground conditions in the first two years. Now yields are climbing as the soil structure improves, and we believe this trend will continue. More is spent on seed now due to the higher rates, but diesel cost savings more than compensate and black-grass populations are reducing too.”

Even cropping

Harry said that moving to direct drilling and variable rate seeding through Omnia E-Seed have both contributed to more even cropping, and particular improvements have been noted on headlands where performance is now similar to the middle of the fields. “Average wheat yields are approximately 10.5–11.0t/ha, but we saw some areas yield 13t/ha last harvest where wheat followed maize that had had a digestate application. Our drilling technique has also changed and where we used to drill headlands first, now they are done at the end. In time we will refine our system further; so that the 750A disc drill does the field centres, and the tined Horsch does the headlands.”

Asked which crops have benefitted most from variable rate drilling, Harry said best results are from winter wheat, followed closely by beans. A crop scanner and Omnia Plant Vision measure and record crop density during all spray and nutrient applications and variable rate fertiliser applications are used. Consistent plant populations and a more even canopy makes crop management easier. Before the change to variable rate drilling, growth regulators were needed every year, but these are rarely used now that highest seed rates are targeted rather than being used across the field.

Practical and affordable

“The Hutchinsons Omnia E-Seed kit is easy to install, simple to use and reliable; and back-up from the Hutchinsons team and especially precision technology manager Oliver Wood has been excellent,” added Harry. “For those using older drills it’s an affordable and accessible route into variable rate seeding. We couldn’t have justified the cost of one new variable rate drill, but have successfully used the kit to convert two older models and gain the same result.”

For more machinery news, visit our website.

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Vaderstad announced high capacity, 12m seed-only, and combined seed and fertiliser drills during an online press event ahead of Agritechnica.

The new Inspire family of drills combines high work rates with precise seed placement. There are currently two models for seed-only or combined seed and fertiliser. The Inspire drills feature a high-capacity seed hopper on large transport wheels, with a 12m seeding unit at the rear, behind the main wheels and with smaller support wheels at the ends of the toolbar. They complement current Spirit drills available in working widths up to 9m, and Rapid drills which come in widths up to 8m.

Huge capacity

The seed-only Inspire 1200S has a 5,000-litre hopper, while the seed and fertiliser Inspire 1200C has a 7,200-litre split hopper which Vaderstad says is one of the largest in its class.

1.5m section control

Both versions feature eight seeding sections supplied by eight Fenix 3 metering units. On the combination drill – seed and fertiliser is combined within the same airstream after leaving the hopper. Using eight metering units means variable rate drilling is easily achieved, as well as section control to 1.5m accuracy.

Seeds are placed through proven double-disc coulters, similar to those on the Spirit drills, across the tool bar. Mounted between the two end wheels and just behind the main central wheels, the coulters follow ground undulations accurately for precise depth control.

E-Control or Isobus

Vaderstad’s E-Control through an iPad app controls the drill and there is full Isobus compatibility.

The new Inspire drills will be shown at Agritechnica in February, and deliveries will start in autumn 2022.

Meets future demands

Vaderstad UK managing director Mike Alsop said that the Inspire drill meets demand for a high-speed seeder capable of working within conventional and reduced tillage regimes. “Preparations needed before drilling will depend on the previous crop and ground conditions, but the double-disc coulters are extremely well-proven and capable of working in a wide range of soils with minimal pre-cultivation where conditions are favourable. Like the Spirit drill, the contour-following ability is excellent and drilling speeds up to 15–18kph will be easily achieved.

“Traditional 125mm row spacing allows growers to establish recommended plant populations and achieve effective weed suppression. We know our customers well and many of those farming large areas have already expressed interest in
the new drill. We have also been contacted by large-scale growers we haven’t dealt with previously, from
the Scottish Borders to the south coast who are excited at this addition to our range. The general view is that this drill meets requirements for future farming strategies rather than the needs of
the past.”

A demonstration drill is expected to arrive in the UK in time for spring drilling, and Mike said there is already a long list of customers keen to try it.

A new Tempo L Central Fill 12m maize drill with 16 or 24 rows and capable of holding 5,000 litres of fertiliser and 2,200 litres of seed provides a dramatic increase to the working capacity compared to the proven, record-breaking Tempo L drills with individual hoppers on each seeding unit.

Row widths from 450–762mm can be achieved.

Large area maize drill

Vaderstad also announced the Tempo L 16–24 Central Fill.

This uses a similar wheeled seed and fertiliser hopper arrangement to the Inspire 1200C, holding 2,200 litres of seed and 5,000 litres of fertiliser.

Vaderstad’s Tempo L holds the current world record for maize crop establishment having drilled 502.05ha accurately in just 24 hours.

Massive time savings

The central high-capacity hopper means that rather than carrying seed in individual hoppers on each seeding unit, there is only the one, hopper to fill. The Tempo’s seed distribution system then supplies each row unit, and the design will save considerable time spent filling the drill with seed, for even higher work rates.

The new Tempo L is available in 16 or 24 row widths for row spacing options from 450–762mm.

No central metering requirement

The hopper has two fans at the front, ensuring high-capacity metering of seed and fertiliser. There is no central seed metering system as each row unit regulates the amount of seed needed to supply the individual high-precision PowerShoot seed metering system on each seeding unit.

The Tempo L Central Fill will also be shown at Agritechnica, and limited numbers will be available for ordering for autumn 2022. FG

MORE FARM MACHINERY NEWS HERE

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With working widths of 3, 4, 4.5, 4.8, 5 and 6m, they incorporate 9, 13, 15 or 19 tines and most feature a 1,910-litre hopper, with the 3m 3MF and 4m 4MRF having a 2700-litre tank split 50:50 between seed and fertiliser. Typical daily outputs range from 20ha for the 3m Evolution, which requires a tractor of at least 150hp, to 40ha for the 6m version which needs a minimum of 300hp (6m version is pictured).

Claydon Evolution drills combine new levels of operational functionality with the tried and tested features which have made Claydon Opti-Till the crop establishment system of choice for growers who want to reduce costs, increase productivity and improve soil health. All models feature as standard a hydraulic fan, Artemis metering control, tramlining facility, front tine/7in A-share configuration, together with a double rear toolbar and road lights.

The Evolution line-up, which includes a 5m unit and 4m rigid grain/fertiliser model, incorporates a range of new features to improve operational functionality. Seed depth adjustment is now controlled hydraulically, improved access to the metering unit allows easier calibration, while front-mounted discs, which are operated hydraulically from the tractor seat, can be specified for seeding into high residue situations.

The 1,910-litre hopper on seed-only Evolution models holds 160-litres more than current Claydon Hybrid mounted models, while Evolution 3MF and 4m 4MRF versions hold an additional 600 litres.

Other features include quick-fit knock-on/knock-off coulter options for the standard leading tine and A-Share to low disturbance twin disc and tine options. Multiple seed tool options allow a wide range of crops to be drilled across different soil types and situations, while the quick-change facility allows fast, easy modification when required. A large, easily accessible toolbox incorporated into the step frame is also standard equipment.

Options include GPS variable seed rate capability, pre-emergence marker arms, front disc toolbar stone protection, micro fertiliser applicator, low-disturbance twin tine kit, slug pelleter, blockage sensors and a light and vision kit.

The design of the Claydon Evolution keeps running costs to a minimum, enabling fuel-efficient farming and minimal soil disturbance in all sowing scenarios. The drill operates accurately, reliably, and inexpensively across a wide range of situations, the simple, robust design and great flexibility allowing it to be used in the autumn or spring to establish any crop that can be air sown. The split hopper design of the 3m 3MF and 4m 4MRF models provides additional versatility, allowing fertiliser to be applied at the time of drilling.

The new Evolution range will be available for delivery from autumn 2022 and will replace the current Hybrid range of mounted drills. It will be priced between the Hybrid mounted range it supersedes and the Hybrid Trailed drill range.

Visit the website for more information.

Hall 6 Stand 6.600

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West Sussex-based JG Eales & Son grows approximately 500ha of arable crops in a rotation including winter wheat, winter barley, spring barley, winter oats and grass seed. Winter beans are missing from this year’s rotation for the first time. Grass is grown in two-year leys primarily for seed production, but one cut of silage is taken from it in the spring, and it also provides winter grazing for a flock of 250 Romney Lleyn breeding ewes, giving the farm’s permanent pastures a break.

The farm is run by brothers David and Stephen Eales and David’s son – also called David – and the sheep enterprise is the responsibility of David’s fiancée Shannon. Land at the home farm has been farmed by the family for approximately 40 years as long-term tenants, and the rest is a mix of contract farming agreements and farm business tenancies. Soil types include heavy clay in the  Weald, greensand, gault clay and soils with a very high flint content on the hills. Spraying is among contracting services provided for local farmers.

Multiple benefits

The Eales moved away from ploughing approximately 20 years ago and adopted a min-till crop establishment regime. Then in 2016 the decision was made to move to direct drilling. “We farm some tricky land and believed that our whole operation would benefit,” explained David. “Reducing our cultivations would save us fuel and time, and when the weather is variable it would remove the risk of prepared seedbeds being rained on and becoming too wet to work ahead of drilling.”

Options considered

Various drills were considered at the Cereals event that year – with the focus on tine models rather than discs due to the flinty soils. The Claydon Hybrid drill with its leading tine and tine coulters was considered the most suitable. Shortly after, the Eales visited the Claydon factory in Suffolk and saw crops established by managing director, Jeff Claydon’s own drill on his heavy land farm. “We were impressed by the operation and found Jeff to be very honest and easy to deal with. He showed us crops which looked excellent, but also made a point of showing us those which hadn’t established so well, and we immediately placed an order for a 4.8m Hybrid model,” explained David.

David says the drill is well designed. Filling is easy, the hopper is accessible and calibration through the in-cab display is simple and accurate. It is also quick and easy to swap the working components for different crops and conditions.

Versatile solution

Standard Claydon leading tines and A-shares were specified, as well as a set of bean points. Since taking delivery, a twin-tine seeding kit has been added, and during wet weather in 2019 a set of double harrows at the rear replaced the standard rear paddles and has remained on the machine as it consistently achieves a better finish on the Eales’ soils. Leading discs have also been purchased to replace the front leading tines when direct drilling into grass stubbles.

“The Claydon drill has proved extremely versatile, and it’s easy to swap the working components to suit the conditions,” confirmed David. “It’s a great wet weather drill too, although because we are not dependent on seedbeds created before drilling, we have more choice as to when we work.”

Reduced cultivations

When the drill was purchased, a Claydon straw rake was also ordered, and this is used immediately after combining to encourage volunteer and weed seeds to chit before they are sprayed off prior to drilling. Compaction is relieved in selected blocks of land as part of the crop rotation using a Sumo GLS low- disturbance subsoiler. David said it leaves the land level and no subsequent cultivations are needed before drilling with the Claydon.

A Horsch Terrano tine cultivator is also used when needed. “Our clay soils become very hard during a dry autumn and a very shallow pass with the Terrano before drilling creates extra loose tilth and helps achieve ideal conditions for early growth.”

The farm has retained its plough, although it is only used for game cover establishment. “It’s a good plough and we still offer ploughing as a contracting service,” said David. “It spends most of its time in the shed and although it hasn’t been used for our own arable crops since 2016, we would use it again if a season demanded it.”

Cost-effective

The Claydon drill has proved reliable and cost-effective during its first six years on the farm and, with 2,600ha of drilling completed, it has only needed one set of replacement leading tines and is still on its first set of grassland cutting discs. There is little routine maintenance, and it is easy to work on.

David said it is well designed too – access for calibration is good, drilling rates are accurate and the in-cab control terminal is easy to set up and use.

David Eales said the Claydon drill
has proved suitable for a range of conditions from ploughed land to bare stubbles. Pre-cultivation is avoided when possible, but when additional loose tilth is needed then a Horsch Terrano is used, and the farm’s plough remains available in the shed.
David is pictured with his dog Wren which accompanies him in the cab.

Soil improvement

“We had a good soil structure before buying the Claydon but have seen a definite improvement since moving to direct drilling,” he explained. “In a wet season the soils drain better and improved traffic carrying ability allows us extended working windows for fertiliser applications and spraying.

It’s hard to tell whether our yields have increased since moving to the Claydon system, as every year the weather has been the limiting factor. However, we are certain that yields haven’t declined while our costs have reduced dramatically. We have more time for other activities too as we aren’t running around with three additional tractors trying to prepare land, and that relieves pressure during the drilling season – especially this autumn when frequent rain showers meant conditions were rarely dry.”

An additional benefit resulting from the move away from ploughing and to direct drilling is that the fields have become more level. “Previously there were uneven areas where the plough was lifted in and out of work, and that was especially noticeable when spraying. The improvement has allowed us to reduce the cutting height when combining and most stubbles are shaved to only two inches high.”

Mounted vs trailed

The farm’s previous 4m drill was trailed, but the 4.8m Claydon is mounted. David says this helps achieve higher daily work rates as lifting the drill clear of the ground and reversing into field corners saves time and improves accuracy compared to manoeuvring a trailed machine. Fewer wheelings created during headland turns is also an advantage.

“Average daily work rates of 25– 30ha are easily achieved which match the size of typical field blocks within our rotation,” David added. “I really like the drill and it copes with our range of soils and crops well. We aim for quality crops including seed to achieve price premiums, and have drilled into maize stubbles, into ploughed land on other farms and following deep cultivations. There have been very few occasions when it hasn’t achieved the result we wanted.

“The back-up from Jeff Claydon and his team is excellent too. When we need help or advice it is always available, and opportunities to meet other Claydon drill users at open days have been useful – allowing us to share ideas and compare our experiences.”

The post Soil improvement, cost and time savings result from switch to direct drilling appeared first on Farmers Guide.

This summer, British manufacturer izona are proud to launch their new direct seed drill the izona iPass which is marketed as a versatile concept that can carry out no-tillage, strip tillage and conventional seeding. Alongside the iPass the company are also introducing their new low disturbance subsoiler to the family.

iPass Direct Drill

Launched at Groundswell, the iPass has been designed to offer flexible, high output seeding across a range of establishment systems and incorporates a number of thoughtful features.

High output, pressurised tank

Boasting a large 7000 litre split tank the iPass can comfortably accommodate four bags of fertiliser and six bags of seed to allow an output of up to 16ha per tank fill when based on a 180kg/ha seed rate. The tank is pressurised for metering and conveying high application rates efficiently and at speed. A generous twin ladder platform has been incorporated to allow easy access to the tank lids for filling and inspection and doubles up as centralised housing for the drills pair of fans and electronic systems.

Commercial braked axle on floatation tyres

Supporting the high-capacity tank, the monocoque chassis features a commercial axle fitted with hydraulic brakes as standard whilst floatation tyres give the drill a sympathetic footprint. Operators can upgrade to air brakes as an option, something that is becoming more common and is a legal requirement for road transport in many European countries.

Flexible coulter choice for different techniques

Interchangeable front points and coulters allows the iPass to be converted from a no-till drill to a strip till or conventional drill at the push of a roll pin. Operators can choose 2” single shoot and 3” and 5” double shoot coulters to achieve different row spacings to suit different seeding techniques. 250mm row spaced models, such as the 6 metre iPass 624 and the 8 metre iPass 832 can achieve a conventional seed row finish using the 5” coulter which drills individual rows evenly spaced apart across the width of the drill. The iPass can also be available in 333mm row spacings with models including the 618 and the 824.

Auto-reset leading tines and front discs clear crop residue from the seeding zone to produce a clean till of moist friable soil whilst band placing fertiliser to promote good root development. Seeding coulters are suspended via a parallel linkage that allows independent control from the cultivation zone whilst also ensuring that the coulter angle is unaffected by depth for accurate seed placement. A unique universal joint system gives the independent, hydraulically pressurised coulter arm exceptional self-steering capabilities and allows the coulter to follow the ground for even establishment across undulating fields.

The variability of the iPass set up appeals to both growers looking to reduce cultivation and advance to a direct system, as well as those who are well established with minimum tillage and want a reliable and consistent machine

Low Disturbance Subsoiler

Following the launch of the izona iPass direct drill at Groundswell, the team at izona introduce the latest in the line of establishment equipment, the izona low disturbance subsoiler at Cereals.

Complementing the iPass range, the izona low disturbance subsoiler has been designed to work in harmony with direct establishment to loosen and aerate soils prior to drilling. The izona’s clever design ensures minimal surface movement whilst effectively fracturing and lifting soil at a medium depth to aid better drainage and promote good rooting in otherwise compacted soils.

Designed by Martin Lole, the izona low disturbance subsoiler is aimed for the larger tractor and boasts heavy duty construction with high-quality components. Available in four and six metres, the implement features 8 and 12 legs respectively. The legs are spaced 500mm apart with a generous stagger of 750mm to ensure free movement of residue for continuous through put of trash.

The new linkage mounted model comes complete with spring-loaded pivoting discs to provide clean cutting action through crop residue and topsoil whilst being able to avoid stones. Individually mounted, the disc arms self-adjust to follow the contours of the ground to ensure accurate engagement across the width of the machine. Following the disc, a 15mm hardened steel leg features a replaceable tungsten carbide tipped point to pierce and lift the soil profile whilst creating minimal surface disturbance.

Operators can determine the level of fracture through the profile by a choice of three wing widths including 55mm, 115mm and 135mm. ‘Hammer-thru’ shear pins minimise downtime whilst ensuring maximum draft control and maintaining the correct draft angle of the wing.

Behind the legs, follows a substantial packer roller with V profile rings. Strategically spaced to follow the legs in line, the packer roller creates a weatherproof finish and can be easily adjusted to suit conditions.

The company is looking forward to demonstrating the new range this Autumn and for those looking to enquire, the izona team can be contacted on 01905 841845 or via www.izona.com.

The post A summer of new launches for British izona appeared first on Farmers Guide.

The new Lemken SeedHub ensures precise application even in windy conditions. A fan conveys the seeds to the baffle plates for the individual part width sections, where they are evenly distributed just ahead of the roller or ideally, into the flow of surface soil. Comprehensive standard features make the SeedHub particularly easy to work with and a calibration sensor allows for easy calibration directly on the implement, and a fill level indicator shows operators when the hopper needs to be refilled with seed. With two seeding shafts for fine and coarse seeds, the SeedHub is optimally equipped for any crop. Speed is measured via a seven-pin signal socket or optionally via a GPS speed sensor.

The integrated control module handles all implement functions for precise sowing. It controls not only the implement speed, but also the blower speed, and allows calibration to be performed automatically. The application rate can also be adjusted electronically during operation and calibration can be done automatically when using the optional GPS sensor.

The pneumatic seed drill has a modular design and is easy to mount – it comes with a console, step and platform as standard. The seed drill will be available in two versions from the 2020 price list: The 200-litre version with electric blower fan is initially available for rigid cultivators and compact disc harrows and the 500-litre version with hydraulic blower fan complements the Rubin 10 semi-mounted compact disc harrows and Kristall cultivators with transport chassis.

VISIT THE WEBSITE HERE

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