Precision Planting Offers New Approach to Applying Starter Fertilizer

Precision Planting has created a planter attachment called FurrowJet to place fertilizer where the crown can access it during early root development. The product strategically puts fertilizer in furrow sidewalls a mere 3/4 inch from the seed, and it can also place fertilizer in the furrow itself.

“FurrowJet is a game changer, creating an entirely new category of plant starter placement,” said Jason Stoller, FurrowJet product manager. 

FurrowJet rides just above the seed being placed and will be offered in dual and tri-band models. This gives growers who prefer in-furrow applications that option, as well as beneficial applications in the furrow walls. The tri-band model is even capable of applying two different kinds of fertilizer at once.

Designed to preserve the seedbed and minimize soil disturbance, Precision Planting’s testing found that FurrowJet minimizes seed burn and does provide some light tillage on furrow walls with its wings that cut into furrow walls. In one trial, FurrowJet also added three kernels to the ear length compared to corn where fertilizer was applied without FurrowJet.

Stoller said the new product is a combination of in-furrow and 2x2 attachments, which gives farmers a little more flexibility. Precision Planting isn’t convinced that using 2x2 attachments to place fertilizer 2 inches from the seed is as efficient for seeds trying to get started.

“The risk is not worth the reward to try to move your coulters closer and deal with that seed burn,” Stoller said. 

The attachment fits behind the company’s new Keeton firmer bracket, which is needed to take advantage of this fertilizer attachment. FurrowJet can be easily attached or taken off by growers. Stoller suggests simply popping them off the planter to clean postseason rather than laying down under the machine to scrub. 

FurrowJet will be beta tested throughout 2016 and should be released to growers officially in 2017. It will be compatible with most planter makes and models.