A PLANTING AID FOR POTATO SEEDLING TRANSPLANTS

Hand planting large numbers of seedlings into field plots is difficult , time consuming and labor intensive. Conventional mechanical planters have long been available, but do not do an adequate job when numerous small plots are to be planted, seedlings vary widely in size, or when the seedbed is not uniform or contains rocks or clods. A conventional peat pot transplanter was modified to make it more effective in plant ing potato seedlings. The planting mechanism and supporting structures were removed. Seats were relocated to make it possible for the operat or to place the pot in the furrow by hand. The modified planter gives results comparable in quality to hand planting, but requiring signific antly less time and effort.