Evaluating the distribution of sugar beet seeds at sowing

Abstract

Abstract A mathematical model is proposed for the formation of a uniform row of seeds in the sowing furrow in order to place them at the same intervals. A key role in this process is played by the random deviation of each seed from the intended place of laying. A mathematical model using probability theory was developed based on the results of laboratory experiments with sugar beet seeds sown onto sticky tape. The consistency of spacing between seeds is influenced by seed rate, i.e. seed number per one meter length of row, the speed of the seeders and the speed of rotation of a seed disc in the machine of exact seeding. Studies have shown that a sufficiently high accuracy of seed placement is achieved if the seeding disc rotates at a speed of 0.24-0.27 m/s, the speed of the drill is not more than 6 km/h, and the seeding dose is not higher than 8 pcs/m. In the field, the coefficient of variation of intervals is higher than on sticky tape, but does not exceed 0.33. There is no seed inversion, and the yield level is more than 98% of the maximum possible. Further improvement in seeding quality can only be achieved by further reducing the speed of precision seeding drills or by design upgrades to align the speed of the seeding machine and the rotation speed of the seeding disc.