Effect of two seed treatment coatings on corn planter seeding rate and monitor accuracy

Seed treated with two seed treatments were tested to study their influence on the seeding rate and monitor accuracy of single-seed metering units. Thi s was a blind test of two unknown seed treatments. A modified angle of repo se test was conducted to assess the influence of the seed treatments on the friction characteristics of the seed coat. A four-row finger-type planter; with seed monitor, was obtained and modified to be driven by an electric m otor and used to assess seeding rate and monitor accuracy. The monitor sign ificantly undercounted the delivery of seed treated with Treatment 2. In ad dition, the seeding unit containing treatment 2 over-seeded by just under 5 %. It was concluded that one of the seed treatments tested did have a signi ficant effect on planter monitor and seeding rate accuracy. This informatio n should be considered by plant-protectant producers and by machinery and m onitor manufacturers when making recommendations to operators to ensure sat isfactory field performance.