Blog › Planter Maintenance Weekly Checklist- week 4
Planter Maintenance Weekly Checklist- week 4
Posted March 25, 2025
In the final blog in our Planter Maintenance series, check-out the last three items on our checklist!
Downforce Setting
Setting the correct downforce is key to maintaining a structurally sound seed furrow with consistent moisture, temperature, and soil density for uniform emergence and optimal yield. Too much downforce causes compaction, restricting root growth and making it difficult for the closing system to seal the trench properly. Too little downforce creates a loose furrow, leading to sidewall collapse and inconsistent emergence due to variable moisture and temperature. The correct setting leaves visible but not firm gauge wheel tracks, with soil that crumbles when lifted, ensuring proper closure and seed-to-soil contact. Adjust downforce based on conditions—higher in dry soils to hold the sidewall, and lower in wet soils to prevent compaction.
Furrow monitoring
You can’t adjust what you can’t see, so monitoring key planter metrics is essential for proper adjustments. Population, singulation, and spacing ensure the correct number of seeds are dropped one at a time with proper trench spacing. Good ride quality helps identify seed placement issues, such as row-unit bounce. Downforce ensures consistent planting depth while avoiding excess soil compaction. Furrow moisture and soil temperature indicate whether conditions are optimal for emergence. Viewing these metrics on the 20|20® system provides real-time insights, giving you confidence in achieving the best possible seed placement and emergence.
Dealer Check-in
A Premier Precision Planting Dealer is your partner in achieving a picket fence stand this spring and avoiding the regret of preventable yield loss due to poor maintenance. At Kalmes Implement, our expert team is ready to inspect and fine-tune your planter to ensure peak performance. From checking row cleaners, gauge wheels, and closing systems, we help you identify wear and make necessary adjustments. We’ll verify your downforce settings, toolbar alignment, seed tube integrity, and planter bar height to ensure uniform emergence and maximum yield potential. Don’t head to the field with unseen issues—schedule a check-in with Kalmes Implement and plant confidently.