As seeding technology has evolved so has row spacing. Where we used to plant using a six- or eight-inch spacing, we’ve moved up to 10 and 12 inches and now we’re seeing farmers using 15 inches. With the wider row spacing its providing benefits to the plant that no one thought we could have before.
The wider row spacing gives canola more space, increasing the rate of photosynthesis. It allows for more lignin to be produced in the plant — by generating more lignin it lessens lodging risk and makes for a healthier plant stand. This allows the crop canopy to close reducing disease incidence in fields, and therefore requiring for less herbicides and fungicides to be used. It’s really a snowball effect.
Another benefit is reduced seed costs. While overall you are planting less plants, the wider row spacing stops overcrowding in fields which can cause seed mortality. You’re letting the plant flourish instead of choking it out.
SeedMaster has been a leader for wider row spacing, while still continuing to offer seeding options for traditional row widths. I think that they are on the right track for anything new and upcoming in the ag world. They’re doing the right things at the right time for farmers.
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