An Alternative to Precision Planting for Leafy Greens Crops in a Precision Cultural System

ABSTRACT

A precision cultural system (PCS) using precision seeders has proven to be very successful with a wide range of vegetable crops, but the cost of the precision seeders may limit adoption of the system. A slightly modified grain drill was evaluated as an alternative method to seed leafy greens crops in PCS. A standard grain drill was equipped with cone guide wheels and the openers were adjusted laterally to plant a twin drill configuration on shaped beds. The grain drill worked very well in the PCS system as did precision cultivation using cone guide wheels. Yields were equivalent to yields obtained using precision seeders in most cases although stand counts varied.

KEYWORDS:

• Mustard
• turnip
• leafy greens
• planters
• seeders
• cultural practices