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Latest News at Lewis Hybrids
January 23, 2007
"Winning from the beginning"
By Roger Forsberg
Consistent high yields are achieved by stacking many good management practices one on top of the other. Often each small practice by itself is not dramatic. However, when all are brought together the results are often dramatic. This can mean added bushels and increased profit for your bottom-line. Planting is an area where there are many opportunities to positively or negatively influence final yields.
BETTER STANDS = BETTER YIELDS
Precision planting is necessary to set the stage for a successful growing season.
*Uniform depth
*Even spacing
*Consistent emergence
The goal is to give each plant a chance of expressing its genetic potential.
How is this achieved?
*Have units checked on a meter stand and rebuilt if needed.
*Science and art are involved in doing an excellent job of rebuilding units.
(Check with other growers or your Lewis DSM as to whom will do a good job in your area)
Make sure other functions of your planter are properly set:
*Planter units ride level through the soil
*Drive shafts
*"V" openers
*Chains & Sprockets
*Depth gauge and closing wheels wear and adjustment
*Hydraulic drive may allow you to take better advantage of soil type changes
*Make sure trash managers are not doing too much work
Suggest adding:
*Trash managers
*Keaton Seed Firmers
*Spaded closing wheel
*Bullseye seed tube
Well tuned units with a good operator of planting time can add from a 2-15 bushel/acre. In dollars that's ($3.50/Bu corn = $7.00-$52.50/acre gross returns.)
Contact Information:
Roger Forsberg
Roger is the Lewis Hybrids Agronomist. Please contact your DSM with any questions you may have for Roger.
Brett Forsberg
Brett is also a consultant with Roger and can calibrate your planter units. Call Brett for information and prices.
Brett Forsberg 217-855-7607