Precision Planting’s latest product concept for nitrogen (N) placement, Conceal, consists of a dual set of injection knives that tuck inside a special groove in the planters’ gauge wheels. Liquid fertilizer is injected through the knife directly below the gauge wheels for consistent and optimized placement.
“We’ve been doing a lot of research in recent years studying the value and effectiveness of placing nitrogen at the right time and in the right place,” says Jeremy Hodel of Precision Planting.
This concept not only puts nutrients in the right place for seeds to access N, but also gives growers the benefits of a very simple design that can handle different residue and soil conditions. Instead of riskily hanging a knife out on its own, the Conceal knife-and-gauge-wheel integrated system allows it to handle residue as a coulter typically would and provide the simplicity benefits of a knife.
“Conceal is rigid in normal operation, but it will give, if needed, to protect the knife,” says Jason Stoller of Precision Planting. A breakaway spring is the secret to Conceal’s success at protecting itself in tough conditions.
For growers who are applying N in a 2×2 band, Conceal will fit nicely into their planting routines. Farmers attending Precision Planting’s 2017 winter conference were quick to check out the new technology, and Stoller sees planter-applied N as “a significant opportunity for farmers to optimize their nutrient programs in a challenging farm economy.”
Conceal will be tested by a handful of farmers under the watchful eye of Precision Planting this spring. As for when it will be available for sale, we’ll know more after testing in 2017.
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