Seed Hawk 30 SERIES 2015 - Manual (Page 70)

SEED HAWK ® 2015 30 SERIES OPERATOR’S MANUAL – DOMESTIC 65
5.12 Primary Operation Variables
5.12.1 Field Travel Speed
5.12.2 Packing and Trip Pressure
The Seed Hawk ® System is the leading design in crop emergence, which allows
growers to reap the benefits of quick and effective germination throughout
the growing season. Positive soil to seed contact is essential for optimum seed
germination. Soil type, extent of tillage or disruption and moisture content all
influence germination percentages.
IMPORTANT! There are six primary variables that affect the quality of soil
packing. As with any field adjustment procedure, make only one change to a
variable, operate the implement for a short distance and observe any difference,
and whether the difference was positive or negative in outcome.
Determining and setting the most effective packing and shank trip pressure
allows for optimum soil to seed contact for quick, even germination. It is im-
portant to set the pressure high enough to ensure the packer/gauge wheels are
following the ground properly so that the seed is placed at the right depth.
Once the seed depth and travel speed is set, make a pass in a dry area of the
field (It is best to test in drier parts of the field to ensure those areas are prop-
erly packed.) Stop and check the furrows made, it is important that the packer
wheel makes a smooth track in the soil. If there is no track made increase the
pressure and try again, if the track is smooth, but too hard decrease the pres-
sure and try again.
Setting the packing pressure too high may result in more rocks being pulled
out, higher wear on shanks and opener parts. Setting the pressure too low may
result in: uneven seed depth, and germination.
It may be desirable to increase packing pressure in drier and sandier soils.
Select a field travel speed that will allow productivity, but will not compromise
accurate seed and fertilizer placement. Higher field travel speeds tend to cause
excessive soil disturbance and can throw soil into adjacent furrows resulting
in deeper seed depths. Higher field travel speeds also reduce the effect of soil
packing by reducing packing pressure. Increase packing pressure when seeding
at higher speeds to ensure proper knife penetration.