Grieskirchen, Austria
November 11, 2011
Pöttinger adds a further innovation to its TERRASEM series of mulch seed drills: direct fertilisation. Using direct fertilisation technology enables micro and macro nutrients to be placed at the same time as the seed grain. Optimum growth conditions are created during the early phase of seed growth as a result, increasing the potential performance of the crop.
Fertilizer can be applied on the TERRASEM using two different methods: through a row of Dual-Disc Exakt coulters, or via a broadcast system using spreader plates. The Dual-Disc Exakt coulter method involves placing fertilizer between each double seed row using the coulters mounted behind the compact harrow unit integrated into the TERRASEM seed drill. The fertiliser placement depth can be adjusted independently of cultivating and sowing depths. The surface is then consolidated across the whole working width before the seed is drilled. The Dual-Disc Exakt coulter thus places a deposit of fertiliser in a perfect position to nourish the roots of the seed. Not only does this save fertiliser and minimise unproductive losses, it also promotes faster development of the root mass and contributes long-term to optimum yield.
The broadcast method involves distributing fertiliser across the full working width of the compact harrow so that it is thoroughly mixed in to the soil. The fertiliser is applied virtually loss-free without overlaps or gaps. As a result the roots of the seed find nutrients at all levels.
An additional advantage of direct fertilisation is that in difficult ground conditions only one pass is necessary, providing maximum protection of the soil. Plus, there is the advantage of being able to complete the full drilling and fertilising process quickly and effectively in a single pass as soon as an opportunity presents itself.
The decision whether - or which method of - direct fertilisation should be applied depends mainly on the structure of the soil, the crop and the precipitation patterns in each region. Pöttinger fully supports the trend in direct fertilisation: in the face of increasing fertiliser prices, new types of fertiliser, new fertiliser regulations and environmental legislation, it pays to employ precision fertiliser management in future. With two methods of applying direct fertilisation, Pöttinger TERRASEM mulch seed drills offer the right process for a wide range of individual needs and operating conditions.
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