A planting mistake can be costly

September 2025

PIETMAN BOTHA,  INDEPENDENT AGRI- CULTURAL CONSULTANT

PLANTING IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TASK ON ANY FARM. THIS TASK CAN MAKE OR BREAK A FARMER. REMEMBER THAT THE MAXIMUM CROP YIELD IS GENETICALLY DETERMINED AND CANNOT BE IMPROVED BY ANY ACTION FARMERS TAKE. FARMERS CAN ONLY MANAGE THE YIELD LOSS FROM THE MAXIMUM POTENTIAL GENETIC YIELD.

If a farmer is doing something wrong, such as applying too little fertiliser, or if the rain is staying away, the plant will lower its yield. Once the potential yield is lowered by the plant, there is no way for the farmer to increase that potential.

With this in mind, all actions taken must be aimed at maximising the potential yield. If there is a problem with the planter and the plant population is too low, the farmer has lost potential yield. This makes it crucial to ensure that the seed is planted at the right depth and equally spaced. If the farmer makes a mistake, the yield is lower and there is no way to recover the loss.

Make sure that the weed control is done correctly. Weed competition, especially with young maize plants, can result in significant yield losses. It is important to manage the crop at a young age and minimise the competition for the seedling.

PLANTER AND SPRAYER MAINTENANCE
Never underestimate the importance of maintaining the planter and sprayer, as well as setting up the equipment correctly. Before heading to the field this season, consider addressing the maintenance items on your planter. Some items can be addressed in the off-season, while others should be addressed in your first field. Firstly, find the operator’s manual and read it again.

Remember that you want the plants to experience the least competition and the best opportunities to grow. This will boil down to the control of weed and making sure the equipment works 100% correctly.

Not everyone has the privilege of new equipment – therefore it is important to make sure everything works properly. Implements wear over time, so inspect the wear-and-tear points on the planter. Replace or repair all worn parts as soon as possible.

If you are unsure, contact your local mechanic specialising in the repair of planters. He will ensure that the planter is in 100% working order before the start of the planting season.  

Publication: September 2025

Section: Pula/Imvula