Seeder or planter: tips for choosing the ideal agricultural machine

BY STARA
Sowing the land is one of the main stages of grain cultivation. Therefore, choosing the right agricultural machinery for this phase is essential to ensure efficient operation and good productivity. 

In this article, we will clarify the difference between a seeder and a planter, helping you choose between them. We will also present the main Stara seeders and planters, clarifying frequently asked questions and clarifying specific features. 

What interferes with the quality of sowing?

Sowing is the initial stage of the cultivation process. It consists of the process of depositing seeds in the soil, respecting the most appropriate spacing and depth. This process ensures that the plants have ideal conditions to grow, resulting in a productive crop.

The quality of sowing is influenced by several factors, such as:

Soil type

Soil texture, moisture and structure influence sowing depth and seed distribution. Soil compaction or excess moisture can hinder seed deposition and germination.

Seed type

The size, shape and weight of the seeds determine the most suitable type of seeder. Each crop has different specifications, requiring adjustments to the agricultural machine. 

Culture

Each crop has its own requirements regarding seeding depth and spacing between plants. Knowing the parameters is necessary to make a good choice of machinery.

Calibration of agricultural machinery

The quality and adjustment of agricultural equipment are essential to ensure precise and uniform seeding.

Therefore, when choosing the ideal agricultural machine for the sowing stage, it is necessary to consider the technical parameters defined by the previous factors, such as type of crop and seed. 

Operation speed

High speed can compromise uniformity in seed distribution.

Environment/Atmosphere

Climatic conditions, such as temperature and humidity, influence seed germination.

What is the difference between a planter and a seeder?

Although both seeders and planters are used for planting grains, their functionalities and applications differ. Check out the main differences:

Seeder (or seed drill)

A seeder is an agricultural machine generally used for small seed crops such as wheat, oats and rice, as well as for fertilizing. It spreads the seeds evenly and in straight lines. In general, there are two types on the market: 

Mechanical seeder

It uses discs or rollers to distribute the seeds. It may have less precision compared to the pneumatic seeder.

Pneumatic seeder

It uses compressed air and pressure systems to distribute the seeds, ensuring greater precision and uniformity in sowing.

Planter

The planter is suitable for larger seeds. In addition to distributing the seeds, it can perform other functions, such as fertilizing and inoculating the soil.

Planters are best suited for crops with wider spacing, such as soybeans, corn and cotton. The equipment deposits the seeds individually, ensuring greater precision and regular spacing.

Among the planters, it is also possible to choose between pneumatic and mechanical, which can directly influence crop yield. Understand the characteristics of each one:

Mechanical planters use gears and chains to distribute seeds in the soil. This system is simpler and is ideal for less demanding soil conditions. However, they can present greater variation in seed distribution, depending on the type of crop and the conditions of use.

Pneumatic planters use a pressure system to move and position seeds. This method allows for more precise and uniform distribution, especially in crops that require high precision to maximize production potential. In addition, they offer greater versatility for different seed sizes and shapes.

Understanding the differences between these two types of planters is important for choosing the agricultural machine that best meets the crop's needs in terms of precision and productivity.

Stara seeders and planters: see the differences

Choosing between a seeder or a planter can seem daunting, but by considering the specific needs of your crop and exploring different solutions, you can make the right decision and ensure a successful harvest. Check out the main Stara agricultural machines available on the market for the seeding stage:

Seeders

Use: Developed for crops with narrower spacing, such as rice, wheat and oats. They focus on uniformity of sowing in larger areas, depositing seeds in a continuous line.

Working capacity: Suitable for prepared soil or direct planting, but with a more generalist approach for different types of seeds.

Application example: Cover crops, forage and cereals.

Technology:

- Seeder Pretty: offers distinct agricultural technologies for controlling agricultural machinery. The 33-row seeder with 17 cm spacing is available in two versions:

Monitoring via cell phone: it is the only seeder on the market controlled by a mobile device via Bluetooth. It allows instant adjustment of seeds and fertilizers, open/close control and seed monitor.

Monitoring via Topper 5500 agricultural controller: performs instant adjustment of seeds and fertilizers, variable seed and fertilizer rate, open/close control, with seed monitor, Conecta, Syncro and Stara Telemetry.

- Seeders Ceres and Ceres Master: prioritize versatility and cost-effectiveness. They are light, compact and adaptable to different spacings, ideal for crop rotation.

- Seeder Beautiful: focuses on uniformity even on challenging soils and uneven terrain. Its air springs ensure perfect ground copying, while the compact transport system facilitates logistics.

Planters

Use: Made for crops that require precision and greater spacing between plants, such as soybeans, corn and cotton. They deposit seeds individually, with high accuracy in depth and spacing.

Working capacity: Aimed at producers who prioritize yield and precision.

Application example: Planting summer crops, with defined spacing and strict control.

Technology: focus on Precision Agriculture, generally incorporate dosing systems and greater automation for in-line planting.

How to choose the best option?

If you are in doubt, think about your main crops, terrain characteristics, planting area and available budget. For example:

If you are looking for precision and advanced technology for sowing winter crops, consider the seeder Pretty.

If the ground is challenging and needs robustness, choose the Beautiful.

If the goal is cost-effectiveness and versatility, opt for Ceres or Ceres Master.

If your crops require exact spacing, consider one of Stara's planters, including: Star, Absoluta, Princess, Cinderella e Eva.

Regardless of the model chosen, one of Stara's main differentials is the direct factory warranty and easy access to original parts.

Trained teams also offer full after-sales support via Connect, a free service from Stara that provides specialized technical assistance to farmers directly from the cabin. 

At Stara Financeira, you can also simulate a agricultural financing and obtain rural credit for the purchase of equipment with special conditions.

Summary

The choice between a seeder and a planter should be made based on the needs of the crop and the characteristics of your rural property. While the former is a simpler agricultural machine and more suitable for winter cultivation, the latter is more suitable for grains that require precision planting. The size of the cultivation area, the condition of the land, the type of seed and crop are some of the factors that should be taken into consideration when investing in the best type of agricultural machine to ensure a good seeder.