Pöttinger has launched its new Duplex Seed drill that plants seeds in double rows and is reported to lead to increase in yields
Duplex Seed plants silage and corn maize in double rows, which is claimed to increase yield by up to 10 per cent and increase output during drilling thanks to the higher driving speed. Duplex Seed is presented by the company as an economical alternative to conventional precision seed drilling.
The seed drill model also has the ability to change quickly between seed types thereby offering the flexibility of using one seed drill for cereals and maize. Further key advantages include direct control of the seed flow as well as monitoring of each maize row.
In terms of plant cultivation, the comapny describe the effects of double row planting as positive. Planting maize in a double row creates the perfect distribution density conditions: more light, more water and more nutrients. Because there is 30 per cent more space between the seeds and therefore 70 per cent more space available for each plant, the roots can spread out in the soil much more easily. The individual maize plants then display less competitive growth behaviour. The roots spread into the free areas. Using a side strip of fertiliser actively encourages the roots to grow outwards. Moreover, the whole maize crop can absorb more sunlight because the plants do not shade each other as much as in a conventional formation. Increased photosynthesis is the result. Double-row drilling with also provides better erosion protection because it does not leave behind additional wheel marks.
In addition, it delivers an increase in performance of around +25 per cent during planting thanks to the higher driving speed of up to 10 km/h with an increased hectare output of almost two hectares per hour with four double rows (working width 3.0 m), the company said.