Getting the correct amount of seed planted with a grain drill requires calibrating the drill before planting begins. Jim Johnson, Noble Research Institute soils and crops consultant, demonstrates step-by-step how to perform this calibration and the calculations required to determine accurate seed output.
Resources needed to perform the calibration are a vehicle jack, a tape measure, a roll of adhesive tape, five lightweight cups (e.g., Styrofoam coffee cups), a scale that measures in grams, a calculator, and one or two assistants to help catch seed in the cups.
To determine the correct amount of seed to catch in the cups, perform the following three-step calculation:
This video is part of the DIY Agriculture educational series produced by Noble Research Institute.