Inter-Row Drill

Inter-Row Drill

The mounted Inter-Row Drill is a flexible and manoeuvrable inter-row companion crop drill, designed principally for drilling grass seed or cover crops between rows of maize to minimalise soil erosion, run-off and compaction in the following crop, however due to the versatile adjustment of the coulters, the IR drill is also capable of sowing cereals and pulses in a no-till or min-till arable system across its 6 metre working width. The IR Drill is suitable for all farm sizes. 

Using a double disc opener and press wheel, the Inter-Row drill ensures optimal seed to soil contact and moisture retention which is essential considering the time of year this operation would be done. Each coulter also has a spring tensioner to adjust downward pressure. 

Under sown grass can provide significant grazing or forage for the following spring. Even if the under sown grass is not used for livestock, it will still improve organic matter and the structure of the soil beneath. Other benefits include providing traction for both forager and trailers at harvest time and preventing bringing soil onto the road. 

Research conducted by a water board shows that in the following spring, under sown ryegrass contains a large amount of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. This allows for savings to be made on these inputs. There is also a potential for growers in drinking water catchment areas to claim grants for under sowing maize depending on the potential amount of nitrogen captured. 

DEVELOPMENT OF THE MOUNTED INTER-ROW DRILL 

Water companies have been increasing farmer awareness of the importance of reducing high sediment and phosphate levels entering our water courses from farming activities. Keeping soils covered and reducing disturbance helps to keep nutrients in the field. One of the biggest culprits of surface water run-off is maize stubbles, which lay bare for long periods. Following collaboration with water companies and various trials, Weaving Machinery has designed a simple direct drill for inter-row companion crop drilling. 

The benefits of the IR Drill allow you to: 

Increase moisture retention and prevent leaching, which will therefore reduce the amount of nitrogen entering watercourses. This can also aid a farmer to meet all cross-compliance requirements, whilst leaving the nitrogen in the ground to benefit the following crop. 

Generate a higher annual crop yield by establishing a fodder crop earlier, which allows mixed farms to graze immediately after maize harvesting. 

Improve root structure which will allow earlier and easier passes on wet soil by harvesting machinery. A cover crop will prevent carrying soil off the field onto the highways and will readily soak up any slurry applied. 

Prevent soil erosion and compaction leading to healthier soils in the long-term. 

Allow earlier crop establishment where cereals and other cash crops can be drilled directly into dead grass which offers a very good soil-binding effect and improves water filtration.