We've all been there.

The kids or grandkids have a birthday coming up. You got busy on the farm and waited a little too long to find a gift.

So you get online, order the perfect toy tractor and farm set, get the confirmation email, click on the shipment tracking number, and then… you see it.

Your gift will be delivered by that carrier.

And you know, for that carrier, "expected delivery by" actually means "we'll try to get it to you sometime in the future…"

A not-so-reliable delivery method can quickly derail your plans to show up at the party with a great gift.

It’s a similar story on the farm. The condition of your bag-to-soil delivery method—your planter—can be the deciding factor between a memorable yield and a mediocre performance.

Planters 101: Delivery Matters

Planting season is just around the corner. You've worked with your LG Seeds agronomist and have selected the perfect seed for each of your farm’s fields.

You're off to a great start.

But as you learned with that toy tractor, your delivery method is sometimes just as important as the product itself. A properly working planter is one of the most critical pieces of equipment in a farmer's row crop operation.

As you prepare for #plant2023, proper planter maintenance will help ensure you’re efficiently and effectively delivering your seed to the furrow, without major breakdowns. This proactivity leads to a good stand – giving you a chance at an outstanding yield.

So what can you do to ensure proper delivery? Let's review the basics.

In the Shop: Pre-Season Maintenanc

Before the 16-hour days (or longer) begin in the coming months, now's the time to check several planter-prep items off your list. Here are a few to get you started:

Check for worn or broken parts: Nothing will slow you down faster than a busted part that could have been replaced in February. Get the crew together and inspect everything—a few days spent looking over everything now could save you a lot of headaches during crunch time.

Row cleaners: Make sure the cleaners are centered on the row-unit and that each cleaner moves freely—both the wheels and the up/down motion.

Depth wheels: Make sure they are spinning properly, are not wobbly, and are making contact with the disk openers.

Closing wheel system: Check the bearings and make sure wheels are spinning freely. Later, you'll want to confirm they are appropriately aligned with the center of the furrow and that the down-pressure matches the soil type of each specific field.

Drive system: Replacing worn parts, checking drive chains, and properly lubricating the entire drive system will prevent disruptions during planting. Take time to verify everything is running smoothly.

Leveling the planter: This is critical and should be done while attached to your planting tractor. If not properly leveled, most planter functions will not operate to their full potential. Row units should be 3/8" to 1/2" lower than the front. Zero in on this pre-plant must-do—a good stand (and an excellent yield) depends on it!

In the Field: Planter Calibration

Your pre-season planter checklist is complete, but making final adjustments when you arrive at the field is vital to maximizing your future crop. Here's a quick in-field to-do list to stay on top of your maintenance:

Check and level: Before you start rolling, check the toolbar and make sure everything is in working order. It's also important to make sure your planter is still level so that you have consistent seed depth

Check seed depth: Make a short run and check your seed depth. Confirm that your actual seed depth matches what you planned, and make adjustments if necessary. The correct seed depth for your crop and soil conditions will significantly impact your future yield.

Check your GPS system: Precision matters. Get the most out of your precision system by ensuring all GPS system components are working correctly. If needed, give your technician a call.

Bottom Line: Delivery Matters

Crops can only reach their full potential with proper planter maintenance and a good start in their seedbed. Take the time to ensure your planter is performing efficiently, and reach out to your LG Seeds agronomist. We are your reliable partner in the field and are committed to your success season after season.