Understand Meter Settings

Meters deliver volume of seed, not specific population. Delivery rates vary up to 10 percent from set rate values due to the following factors. Always perform field checks to determine exact application.

1. Physical Characteristics—Two bags of seed that weigh the same hold different quantities of seed due to moisture content, residue, unfilled kernels, or seed size.

2. Drive Wheel Circumference—Tire size and air pressure affect seeding rate. Drive wheel circumference affects metering ratio.

3. Operator Judgement—Land contains more or less area than assumed. Overlapping rows or leaving a wide space between rows on each pass in the field. Misjudging field conditions. Driving too fast or slow for conditions.

4. Machine Settings—Type of meter rollers, meter covers, wear plates, fine tuning rings, and brushes installed in meter.