Seed and fertilizer separation under till-planting system

Abstract

Three prototypes of till-planting unit were developed with which tilling strips, application of fertilizer with separation below the seed, and seeding was accomplished simultaneously. Therefore, the number of field operations required was decreased. The separation between seed and fertilizer was determined for till-planting units in an indoor soil bin facility at three speeds, three depths, three levels of soil compaction, and three levels of soil moisture content. Field tests were also conducted at three speeds and three depths. Results of the soil bin tests indicated that the most favorable condition in terms of high vertical separation between seed and fertilizer occurred with unit two at medium level of soil moisture, low level of soil compaction, 100 mm depth, 3-5 km/h speed of operation. However, in the field tests, the best results were obtained at 125 mm depth and at 3 km/h speed with unit two.