5 Key Things to Ensure Successful Planting Season Preparation

February 27, 2023

Odebolt, IA – Well, it’s that time of year again, and thus begins the planting season prep work. While it may seem unnecessary to go through a plant preparation checklist every year, it’s not a bad thing to be consistent, and you may pick up some new methods along the way. The ProTrakker team has put together a short list of preparations that can help streamline your efforts and make your ‘Plant23’ more effective. 

1) Create your yield goals

Before driving the tractor into the field, growers need to put a ‘pen to paper’. Creating a detailed plan on what your yield goals are, and how you will reach them, is an important first step. 

2) Prep your soil and nutrients

We all know that the healthier the soil, the more successful the crop will be. Performing soil tests and pulling samples throughout the fall and winter months provide the feedback you need to know for strong soil health and proper nutrient placement. 

3) Create your fertilizer plan

Based on the knowledge gained through soil sampling and testing, develop a fertilizer strategy that not only helps get the most out of your seed but produces for your bottom line. Soil sampling tests will provide insights into nutrient levels and which macro and micro-nutrients may need to be added to the soil. 

4) Develop a crop protection plan

You know your farm’s history better than anyone, so take into consideration past weed and disease issues, and the problem areas of your field(s), to preemptively develop a crop protection plan as well. Specific farming practices can help prevent or reduce insect crop damage such as crop rotation, deep plowing, using fertilizers, and the destruction of crop residue.

5) Run equipment checks and machinery maintenance

With so many moving parts around the farm, it’s easy to bypass planting machinery maintenance. While planning can take you to the starting line, the equipment has to be ready to carry you through the finish. 

Make sure you check fertilizer equipment regularly (pumps, splitters, etc.) for worn parts and clogged nozzles as even distribution depends on properly functioning equipment. Double-check planter attachments (i.e. fertilizer placement products, seed handling systems, closing wheels, etc.) and make sure everything is working properly. 

Lastly, boot up electronics and technology to make sure you have the latest software updates installed, and perform lights and safety system checks.

Executing these key prep-planting checks will have you in a better position once you’re finally in the field, and a fine-tuned operation will pay dividends. For more insight on precision planting tips and guidance system solutions offered by ProTrakker, visit ProTrakker.com .