Uniform emergence is one of the most important drivers of sunflower yield. Achieving that uniform stand starts with making sure your planter is properly inspected, maintained, and adjusted before the season begins.
In this installment of the Spring Sunflower Boot Camp, we review a preseason planter checklist along with tips for improving planting accuracy across several common planter systems.
Before heading to the field, growers should confirm that the planter is level from front to back and side to side. Parallel arms and row units should operate evenly to ensure consistent planting depth across the entire planter.
Other important maintenance checks include verifying seed tube condition, checking closing wheel alignment, inspecting disk openers for wear, and ensuring drive systems are operating smoothly. Even small variations in planter setup can lead to differences in seed placement and emergence.
The guide also includes equipment-specific recommendations for several planter types, including:
- John Deere Pro Max
- Case Early Riser
- Precision Planting Systems
- White Air planters
Planter preparation checklist
- Confirm planter is level and row units operate evenly
- Inspect seed tubes and sensors
- Check disk openers and closing wheels
- Verify plates and singulators are in good condition
- Adjust planter settings based on seed size and hybrid characteristics
Taking time to properly inspect and adjust planter equipment before planting begins can improve seed placement, reduce skips and doubles, and help establish a more uniform crop.
