WO2023039660A1

WO2023039660A1 - Seeder for small grains providing singulated metered supply

Info

Publication number: WO2023039660A1
Application number: PCT/CA2022/051336
Authority: WO
Inventors: Dean Mayerle
Original assignee: Tritana Intellectual Property Ltd
Current assignee: Tritana Intellectual Property Ltd
Priority date: 2021-09-17
Filing date: 2022-09-07
Publication date: 2023-03-23
Anticipated expiration: 2024-03-17

Abstract

A seeding drill includes a plurality of row seeding units for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground with each mounted for floating movement with a down pressure device. Supply ducts transport the fertilizer and seed separately to each row seeding unit. Each row seeding unit includes a singulation meter, a component for forming a furrow including a first supply tube and a separate second supply tube for supplying material to the ground independently and a supply selection device to control supply of the seeds to the row seeding units. The selection device is arranged in a first singulation mode where the seeds are supplied to the singulation meter for singulated supply to the feed mouth of the first supply tube and in a second non-singulation bulk metered mode where the seeds are supplied to feed mouth of the second side supply tube.

Description

SEEDER FOR SMALL GRAINS PROVIDING SINGULATED METERED SUPPLY

This invention relates to a seeder which can be used particularly for small grains which therefore often have a row spacing less than 15 inches. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

For many years large grains such as corn, soybean, cotton, and sunflower have been planted in rows and the seeds in the rows have been individually spaced to give each plant the optimum growth potential. Pneumatic planters with a plurality of seed meters are well known to plant seeds in the ground at various depths and spacings. The seeds are typically singulated and metered by a seed metering disc with pockets and holes and using either a vacuum or positive air pressure to hold individual seeds to the disc until it is dropped down a seed tube to the seed furrow. Typical row spacing for corn, cotton and sunflowers is 30 inches while 15 inch rows are used for soybeans. Typical planter widths are between 30 and 40 feet with large planter up to 60 feet wide so that there are 24 rows on 30 inch corn planter. Many inventions have been focused on the improvement to meters and drive systems. Development of GPS systems have allowed farmers to precisely control seed and fertilizer rates to match their soils potential. Lately, the focus has been on the highspeed delivery of seeds to the ground, and the switching of varieties to match soil conditions in the field.

Small grains have typically been seeded utilizing bulk metering from a common tank. Typically, small grains farmers seed more ground per day and have focused on seeding a uniform seed population without regard to spacing between seeds. Seed row spacing on a typical seeder is 10 or 12 inches. Many drills are between 60 and 80 feet wide, while new machines are up to 100 feet wide so that there are 100 rows on 12 inches spacing. Recent research is showing the differences between row populations, due to the accuracy of the distributors, and the corresponding yield lost because of the poor variation between seed row populations delivered by the bulk metering seeding system. Research is also show that small grains farmers can reduce seed rates if they can equalize the populations and be ensured of good rates of emergence. Yield increases and seed cost reductions put more money in the farmer’s pockets.

Several manufactures have been working on adapting seed singulation meters to small grains. Challenges are encountered due to singulation of small seed size, however due to increasing costs of hybrid seeds research continues to make advances. The narrow row spacing of small grains seeders mean that many meters are required. A number of planter manufacturers have tried to utilize a 15 inch space configuration used for soybeans; however final crop yields have been reduced due to this change.

Some manufactures have tried central singulation to reduce costs. These meters are mounted on the drill frame. However when the seeds are blown to the rows, they lose all spacing and even though the populations are now accurate the spacing is lost and not all plants have the same yield potential. Blowing the seeds to the rows also creates a secondary problem which is that the seed is traveling much faster than ground speed and bounces in the seed trench when exiting. Research has shown proper spacing can increase yields up to 44%. Proper spacing can only be achieved by mounting the seed singulation meter as close to the furrow as possible. The seed tube between the meter and the ground should be designed to deliver the seed at a rearward velocity equal to the forward speed of the planter, thus giving the seed a zero relative speed drop into the furrow. In this way the spacing delivered by the meter is maintained in the row giving each plant its maximum yield potential.

Problems which may arise with existing technology:

It is cost prohibitive to place a seed singulation meter on each row of a seeder due to the number of rows because of narrow row spacings. Thus for example a 40ft corn planter @ 30 inch spacing has 16 rows whereas an 80 ft seeder @ 10 inch spacing has 96 rows.

Seed singulation meters mounted off row deliver poor spacing due to bounce in the delivery lines and the mis-match in ground speed to seed/air velocity causes loss of a possible 44% yield advantage

A significant cost saving for precision planting small grains is lower seeded populations. For example, a canola farmer can go from 5 Ib/acre where the seeds are bulk seeded to 2 Ibs/acre where the seeds are precision spaced. This can provide savings of $45/acre. However, at low rates, precision planted small grains need to have high emergence rates, thus a very critical part of the equation is a very accurate, ground following row unit. The large number of row units on a narrow row seeding system is cost prohibitive on a wide seed drill due to the number of components required to create a precision ground following row unit.

For small grains a no-till environment is preferred to preserve soil moisture as small grains are typically grown in low moisture environments. Thus a row unit should deliver seed and fertilizers in precision locations at the same time and therefore should effectively seal the high-rate fertilizer from the seed in order to develop high germination and emergence rates of the planted seed.

Small grain farmers may only have 1 or 2 crop out of 5 or 6 that they grow that will show a positive response to in row seed singulation and spacing. Farmers will be able to justify the added expense of singulating meters to obtain the cost savings and yield advantages of theses crops, however they will want one seeder to carry out both singulated metering mode and bulk seeding mode.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A method to reduce the number of components in a small grain planter system is required to improve returns for the farmer.

According to one aspect of the invention, which can be used independently or with any of the further features defined herein, there is provided a seeding drill comprising: a transport system including at least one tool bar for transport across ground to be seeded; a plurality of supply tanks arranged to be transported with the transport system for containing separately seed and fertilizer; a plurality of row seeding units each for mounting on the transport system at positions on the transport system for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross; each row seeding unit being mounted for floating movement relative to the transport system with a down pressure device for application of force to the ground engaging components; supply ducts for transporting respectively the fertilizer and seed separately to each row seeding unit; each row seeding unit comprising: a singulation meter arranged for receiving seeds from one of the supply ducts and for delivering individual seeds; and a ground engaging component for forming a furrow; the ground engaging component including a first supply tube and a separate second supply tube each having a feed mouth and extending to the ground for supplying material to the ground independently of the other of the supply tubes; and a supply selection device arranged to control supply of the seeds to the row seeding units; the supply selection device being arranged in a first mode where the seeds are supplied to the singulation meter for singulated supply to the feed mouth of the first supply tube and in a second mode where the seeds are supplied to feed mouth of the second side supply tube.

According to one aspect of the invention, which can be used independently or with any of the further features defined herein, there is provided a seeding drill comprising: a transport system including at least one tool bar for transport across ground to be seeded; at least one supply tank arranged to be transported with the transport system for containing seed; a plurality of row seeding units each for mounting on the transport system at positions on the transport system for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross; each row seeding unit being mounted for floating movement relative to the transport system with a down pressure device for application of force to the ground engaging components; the row seeding units being mounted on the transport system at a fixed constant spacing therealong of less than 15 inches; the row seeding units being arranged in a first singulation metering mode where the seeds are supplied to the singulation meter for singulated supply to the ground engaging component for application to the ground in a singulation metered seeding arrangement and in a second bulk seeding mode where the seeds are supplied without singulation metering from the supply duct to the to the ground engaging component for application to the ground in a non-singulation bulk metered seeding arrangement; the row seeding units remaining, with the ground engaging components in engagement with the ground, on the transport system at said fixed constant spacing therealong in both the first singulation metering mode and in the bulk seeding mode.

According to one aspect of the invention, which can be used independently or with any of the further features defined herein, there is provided a seeding drill comprising: a transport system including at least one tool bar for transport across ground to be seeded; a plurality of supply tanks arranged to be transported with the transport system for containing separately seed and fertilizer; the supply tanks including at least a first tank for a fertilizer and a second tank for seed; a plurality of row seeding units each for mounting on the transport system at positions on the transport system for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross; each row seeding unit being mounted for floating movement relative to the transport system with a down pressure device for application of force to the ground engaging components; at least first and second supply ducts for transporting respectively the fertilizer and seed separately to each row seeding unit; each row seeding unit comprising: a primary furrow forming component for forming a primary furrow at a required depth; a first furrow supply tube for supplying the first fertilizer from the first supply duct to the furrow; a singulation meter arranged for receiving seeds from one of the supply ducts and for delivering individual seeds; a ground engaging component arranged behind and to one side of the furrow forming component to create a secondary furrow in or alongside the furrow; the ground engaging component including at least one supply tube for supplying the seed to the ground into the secondary furrow so as to be located above and one side of the fertilizer.

According to one aspect of the invention, which can be used independently or with any of the further features defined herein, there is provided a seeding drill comprising: a transport system including at least one tool bar for transport across ground to be seeded; a plurality of row seeding units each for mounting on the transport system at positions on the transport system for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross; each row seeding unit being mounted for floating movement relative to the transport system with a down pressure device for application of force to the ground engaging components; each row seeding unit comprising: first and second primary furrow forming components arranged side by side to form two respective spaced parallel furrows; first and second ground engaging components arranged to create a secondary furrow to the side of the respective primary furrow forming component; the ground engaging components each including a supply tube extending to the ground for supplying seeds to the respective furrow independently; first and second singulation meters arranged for receiving seeds and for delivering individual singulated seeds; and a common single drive motor mounted on the row seeding unit and arranged to drive both the first and second singulation meters.

According to one aspect of the invention, which can be used independently or with any of the further features defined herein, there is provided a seeding drill comprising: a transport system including at least one tool bar for transport across ground to be seeded; a plurality of row seeding units each for mounting on the transport system at positions on the transport system for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross; each row seeding unit being mounted for floating movement relative to the transport system with a down pressure device for application of force to the ground engaging components; each row seeding unit comprising: first and second primary furrow forming components arranged side by side to form two respective spaced parallel furrows; first and second ground engaging components arranged to create a secondary furrow to the side of the respective primary furrow forming component; the ground engaging components each including a supply tube extending to the ground for supplying seeds to the respective furrow independently; first and second singulation meters arranged for receiving seeds and for delivering individual singulated seeds; and a common single seed hopper feeding seed to each of the first and second singulation meters.

According to one aspect of the invention, which can be used independently or with any of the further features defined herein, there is provided a seeding drill comprising: a transport system including at least one tool bar for transport across ground to be seeded; a plurality of row seeding units each for mounting on the transport system at positions on the transport system for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross; each row seeding unit being mounted for floating movement relative to the transport system with a down pressure device for application of force to the ground engaging components; each row seeding unit comprising: first and second primary furrow forming components arranged side by side to form two respective spaced parallel furrows; first and second ground engaging components arranged to create a secondary furrow to the side of the respective primary furrow forming component; the ground engaging components each including a supply tube extending to the ground for supplying seeds to the respective furrow independently; first and second singulation meters arranged for receiving seeds and for delivering individual singulated seeds; the ground engaging components also each including a supply tube extending to the ground for supplying seeds or starter fertilizer to the respective secondary furrow.

According to one aspect of the invention, which can be used independently or with any of the further features defined herein, there is provided a seeding drill comprising: a transport system including at least one tool bar for transport across ground to be seeded; a plurality of row seeding units each for mounting on the transport system at positions on the transport system for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross; each row seeding unit being mounted for floating movement relative to the transport system with a down pressure device for application of force to the ground engaging components; each row seeding unit comprising: first and second primary furrow forming components arranged side by side to form two respective spaced parallel furrows; first and second ground engaging components arranged to create a secondary furrow to the side of the respective primary furrow forming component; the ground engaging components each including a supply tube extending to the ground for supplying seeds to the respective furrow independently; first and second singulation meters arranged for receiving seeds and for delivering individual singulated seeds; first and second packer wheels carried on the row seeding unit behind the ground engaging components for running in the respective furrow; and a pivot coupling allowing pivotal movement of a rear portion of the row seeding unit carrying the furrow forming components, the singulation meters, the ground engaging components and the packer wheels so as to allow the furrow forming components and the packer wheels to closely follow the ground. According to one aspect of the invention, which can be used independently or with any of the further features defined herein, there is provided a seeding drill comprising: a transport system including at least one tool bar for transport across ground to be seeded; a plurality of row seeding units each for mounting on the transport system at positions on the transport system for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross; each row seeding unit comprising: a primary furrow forming component for forming a furrow at a required depth; a first furrow supply tube for supplying the first fertilizer from the first supply duct to the furrow; a ground engaging component arranged behind and to one side of the furrow forming component to create a secondary furrow in or alongside the primary furrow; the ground engaging component including at least one supply tube for supplying the seed to the ground into the secondary furrow so as to be located above and one side of the fertilizer; wherein the ground engaging component comprises a shank having a lowermost tip portion with a leading edge facing soil in the primary furrow which opens the soil to form the secondary furrow for the seed at a different depth than the primary furrow; wherein the leading edge of the tip of the shank includes a front plane which is inclined at an angle to a line at right angles to a direction along the primary furrow so as to direct soil to flow toward a center line of the primary furrow to cover the fertilizer in the primary furrow and seal the primary furrow with displaced soil from the second furrow.

According to one aspect of the invention, which can be used independently or with any of the further features defined herein, there is provided a seeding drill comprising: a transport system including at least one tool bar for transport across ground to be seeded; a plurality of supply tanks arranged to be transported with the transport system for containing separately seed and fertilizer; a plurality of row seeding units each for mounting on the transport system at positions on the transport system for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross; each row seeding unit comprising: a primary furrow forming component for forming a primary furrow at a required depth; a first furrow supply tube for supplying the first fertilizer from the first supply duct to the furrow; a ground engaging component arranged behind and to one side of the furrow forming component to create a secondary furrow in or alongside the furrow; the ground engaging component including at least one supply tube for supplying the seed to the ground into the secondary furrow so as to be located above and one side of the fertilizer; wherein the ground engaging component comprises a shank having a lowermost tip portion with a leading surface facing soil in the primary furrow which opens the soil to form the secondary furrow for the seed at a different depth than the primary furrow; wherein the leading surface of the tip portion of the shank includes a hard coating; and wherein the hard coating is thicker on an inner side of the leading surface closer to a center line of the primary furrow than an outer side such that an angle of the hard coating on the tip portion directs soil to flow toward the center line of the primary furrow to cover the fertilizer in the primary furrow and seal the primary furrow with displaced soil.

The arrangement herein also provides the following optional features which can be used, where applicable, with any one or combination of the features defined above:

— the leading surface is inclined downwardly and rearwardly.

— the leading surface is planar. — the leading surface is located downwardly of a covering panel which connects the shank to the seed tube.

— the tip portion of the shank extends rearwardly from the leading surface to a position just in front of the seed tube to protect a bottom end of the seed tube.

— the soil flow direction to form the secondary furrow serves to cover the primary furrow and seal the primary furrow with displaced soil from the second furrow.

— the row seeding units is mounted on the transport system at a fixed constant spacing therealong of less than 15 inches.

— the seed supply tank is mounted on the transport system to be carried thereby.

— the fertilizer supply tank and/or the seed supply tank is mounted on a separate transportation cart.

— the supply selection device is arranged to control supply of the fertilizer so as to be operable in the first mode to supply the fertilizer to the feed mouth of the second feed tube.

— the supply selection device is arranged to control supply of the fertilizer so as to be operable in the second mode to close off supply of fertilizer to the feed mouth of either the first or second feed tube.

— the supply tanks including a plurality of supply tanks each for receiving a selected material, wherein there are provided a plurality of supply ducts for transporting respectively the materials from the tanks separately to each row seeding unit, wherein each row seeding unit comprises a furrow forming component for forming a furrow at a required depth and a first furrow supply tube for supplying the main fertilizer from the first supply duct to the furrow and wherein the supply selection device is arranged to control supply of the materials through the ducts so as to be operable: in the first mode where the seeds are supplied to the singulation meter for singulated supply to the first supply tube and where the second fertilizer is supplied to the second side supply tube; and in the second mode where the seeds are supplied to the second supply tube.

— the first and second side supply tubes are arranged with one in front of the other.

— the second side supply tube is arranged behind the first.

— the singulation meter is turned off in the second mode.

— the first side supply tube is curved to drop the singulated seed at a net zero velocity arranged ahead of the second.

— the ground engaging component comprises an angled shank such that the shank opens the soil to form a furrow for the seed at a different depth than the first furrow and the angle of the shank directs soil to flow in the direction of the first furrow to cover the fertilizer in the first furrow and seal the first furrow with displaced soil from the second furrow. — each row seeding unit includes a hopper fed by the third duct for supplying the singulation meter.

— the singulation meter is driven by an electric motor.

— the row seeding units, with the ground engaging components in engagement with the ground, are at said fixed constant spacing therealong the transport system in both the singulated metered seeding arrangement and in the bulk seeding arrangement.

— the single seed hopper of each of the row seeding units is filled from a central tank.

— depth control of each unit is provided by adjusting gauge wheels on the unit for both furrow openers.

— there is provided a control system in which one driver motor and/or transmission for the precision seed singulation meter can control more than one unit to provide a cost reduced control system.

Because small grains develop the best yield potential on narrow rows (10 to 12 inches) many row units and many seed singulation meters should be used to precision plant small grain seeds to give the best chance of high yields.

There are many aspects involved in precision planting a seed. The seed furrow should be accurately created with the furrow depth controlled by a local ground following wheel. The seed should be placed in the seed furrow at predetermined intervals. In a no-till environment the seed and fertilizer should be placed together. In most cases, high-rate fertilizer should be placed below and to the side of the seed furrow. The seed furrow should be positively sealed from the high-rate fertilizer to avoid seed devitalization. In some cases, fertilizer is also placed in the seed row to act as a starting boost for the seed. The precision row unit should accurately follow the ground at high speed. The singulator meter should drop individual seeds into a seed tube designed to deliver the seed at zero velocity to the forward speed of the planter to minimize seed roll into the seed furrow.

Some crop types have a yield advantage to a singulated seed population while others may not. Thus farmers should be able to quickly switch between singulation metering and bulk metering.

The following are objectives one or more of which may be obtained by the embodiments described in detail hereinafter:

Reduce the number of precision land following openers required on a wide drill. This can be done by doubling the number of rows seeded by a row unit so as to halve the number of row units.

Provide an opener in which high-rate fertilizer can be placed off and below the seed row and the flexibility of singulating small grains with in-row starter fertilizer (triple shoot) or in which small grains can be bulk seeded with deep banded nitrogen fertilizer (double shoot). That is when required, the seed singulation meter may be bypassed as it is not always needed to be used.

Provide a control system for the driver motors and/or transmissions for the precision seed singulation meters where the control system can control more than one unit to provide a cost reduced control system. Provide a bulk fill system in which one feed line delivers seeds to a common hopper for two seed singulation meters.

Provide a row unit in which one depth adjustment can control two rows.

Provide a row unit where the depth of a furrowing disk sets a high-rate fertilizer depth, and a shank sets the depth of a seed and starter fertilizer.

Provide a seed shank which has a leading surface which is angled to create soil flow to seal the high-rate fertilizer from the seed trench.

Provide a coating on the seed shank that is thicker one side to provide the starting direction for the soil flow.

Provide a coating on the seed shank that is designed to wear in a manner to maintain the soil flow direction as it wears.

Provide a row unit in which the gauge wheels pivot laterally side to side to maintain even depth between the two rows.

Provide a row unit in which a singulation meter and a bulk meter can deliver the seed and other crop inputs into the same furrow at the same time or separately.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is an isometric view of a seeding drill according to the present invention which incorporates many of the novel features described herein and include a row seeding unit arranged to apply two rows of seeds to the ground. Figure 2 is an isometric view of one row seeding unit for use in the seed drill of Figure 1 where the row seeding unit is arranged to apply only a single row of seeds.

Figure 3 is one side elevational view of the row seeding unit of Figure 2 and including separate material supply tanks.

Figure 4 is a front elevational view of the row seeding unit of Figure 2.

Figure 5 is an isometric view of one row seeding unit for use in the seed drill, of Figure 1 where the row seeding unit is arranged to apply two side by side rows of seeds

Figure 6 is an isometric view of one row seeding unit of Figure 5 with a number of components removed to show the frame structure.

Figure 7 is a top plan view of the row seeding unit of Figure 5.

Figure 8 is one side elevational view of the row seeding unit of Figure 5.

Figure 9 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the row seeding unit of Figure 5.

Figure 10 is a bottom plan view of the row seeding unit of Figure 5 on an enlarged scale.

Figure 1 1 is an isometric view of one ground engaging component for applying the seed of the row seeding unit of Figure 5.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The figures particularly 1 and 3 illustrate a planter 10 having a bulk fill tank 11 with multiple compartments 1 , 2 and 3 for seed and fertilizer or other crop inputs. The tank can be mounted on the transport system defined by a tool bar 12 or can be carried on a trailing or leading multi compartment air cart (to provide more capacity for seed and I or crop inputs). The tool bar 12 is thus mounted on suitable ground wheels 13 for transport by a suitable towing vehicle across ground to be seeded.

The tool bar carries a plurality of row seeding units 15 on the transport system at positions for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross. Each row seeding unit is mounted for individual floating movement relative to the transport system about a pivot axis 17 with a down pressure device 16 for application of force to the ground. The row seeding units are mounted on the transport system at a fixed constant spacing therealong of less than 15 inches. Typically spacing of 7 to 12 inches is suitable for small grains of the type with which the present invention is primarily designed. Designs of tool bar, float system and arms can be varied within the knowledge of a person skilled in the art.

The bulk fill tank 1 1 includes a pressurizing fan 14 for creating airflow to blow seed and fertilizer from the tank to the row units. The tank may include a typical inductor box, as shown in US 6,164,222 (Mayerle issued Dec 26 2000), to pick up and deliver seed to a precision singulating meter or may include a typical bulk meter as shown in figure 2 of US 6,158,630 (Mayerle issued Dec 12 2000), to meter grain or crop inputs to the row unit. Several planting row units are attached to the tool bar. Each row unit 15 includes a suitable pivoting arrangement 17 for attaching the unit to tool bar 12, such as a parallel linkage and a pair of bolts. The row units 15 contain a vacuum style seed singulation meter 18, thus toolbar 1 1 includes two singulator suction fans 19, 20 to create the vacuum pressure and the airflow required at the row unit meters 18.

The row unit 15 shown in Figure 3 has a single seeding unit including a furrow forming component 26, a high-rate fertilizer tube 21 , single seed singulation meter 18, a seed row crop feed tube 22 and a second feed tube 23 on the same row unit.

The row unit shown in Figure 5 has two furrow forming components 26A and 26B, two high-rate fertilizer or deep banding feed tubes 21 A and 21 B, two seed singulation meters 18A and 18B, two in seed row crop input tubes 22A and 22B and two second feed tubes 23A and 23B as on the same row unit. The two seed singulation meters 18 are linked together and have a common electric drive motor 24 and a common transmission 25 connected to the drive shaft link. The two meters 18 have a common mini hopper 27 and a common delivery line 28 to the hopper from the compartment 2 of the bulk fill tank 1 1 . A common hydraulic cylinder 16 provides down force to the row unit. Significant cost reductions are realized by the common components.

In one embodiment as shown in Figure 3, the furrow forming component 26 is provided by a conventional shank 26C with a shoe 26D.

On the row unit of Figure 5, a pair of large discs 26A and 26B are angled to the direction of travel and thus cut the deeper high-rate fertilizer trench by moving soil to the outside of the row unit. A gauge wheel 26E and 26F beside the disc sets the depth of the row unit and scrapes any remaining soil off of the cutting discs.

As best shown in Figure 6, the structure forming the arm 15 includes a central pivot pin 30 between the support bearing hubs 31 and 32 for the two cutting disks 26A and 26B. This allows side to side pivotal movement about an axis A parallel to the direction of movement which in turn allows the disks and gauge wheels to float up and down. Down pressure is applied by the cylinder 16 to the pivoting frame of the arm 15 to cut the ground, while the gauge wheels serve 26E and 26F to limit the depth of the disc penetration and follow the undulation of the ground. The tubes 21 A and 21 B carry the high-rate fertilizer to the bottom of each disc trench. The scraper keeps the inside of the disc clean and provides a narrow channel to retain the high-rate fertilizer and direct it to the bottom of the trench.

Alternately, in an arrangement not shown, the central pivot pin 30 could be positioned perpendicular to the direction of travel with the support bearing hubs and cutting discs being positioned in front of the pivot on one side and behind the pivot on the other to provide movement for the discs and gage wheels to float up and down and precisely follow the ground.

Behind the discs on both sides is the seed shank assembly 31 along with the two seed tubes 22 and 23. Typically the seed shank 31 is positioned 1 .5 inches inside of the fertilizer furrow and cuts a seed furrow 0.75” above the bottom of the fertilizer furrow. The seed shank 31 as best shown in Figure 1 1 has a shank body 31 A formed by flat metal strap and extends downwardly to a lowermost tip portion 31 F with a leading surface 31 D. The tip portion 31 F has the same width as the main body of the shank which is typically of the order of 0.5 inch with two sides 31 G, a bottom surface 31 H and a rear edge 31 J

The lowermost tip portion 31 F has the leading surface 31 D facing soil in the primary furrow so that the leading surface acts to open the soil at the side edge of the primary furrow to form the secondary furrow for the seed at a different depth than the primary furrow. The leading surface 31 D of the tip portion 31 F of the shank includes a hard coating 31 P where the hard coating is thicker on an outer side 31 R of the leading surface more distant from a center line of the primary furrow at the tube 21 than an inner side 31 S adjacent the center line of the primary furrow. This can be seen at the top surface of the hard coating 31 P which thus forms a triangle with a side at the outer side 31 R. In this way the angle of the front face of the hard coating 31 P on the tip portion 31 F acts to direct soil to flow toward the center line of the primary furrow to cover the fertilizer in the primary furrow and seal the primary furrow with displaced soil.

As shown in Figure 1 1 , the leading surface 31 D is planar and is inclined downwardly and rearwardly. The leading surface 31 D is located downwardly of a covering panel 31 C which wraps around the shank at the bottom above the lowermost tip 31 F and acts to connect the shank body 31 A to the seed tubes 22 and 23. The cover 31 C is bolted onto the shank at bolts 31 X and extends around the rear of the tube 23 to hold the structure integrated.

The tip portion 31 F of the shank extends rearwardly from the leading surface 31 D to a rear edge 31 J just in front of the seed tube 22 to protect a bottom end of the plastic seed tube 22 against wear and damage.

The leading surface 31 D of the seed shank is laser clad with hard surfacing materials 31 P to provide a long wear life.

Alternately the leading edge 31 D could be machined to provide the soil flow direction and the hard surfacing could be applied at a common thickness but with a differential hardness such that the wear preferentially occurs at the inner edge 31 S so that the angle and the flow direction caused thereby is maintained with wear.

Aligned above each seed shank 31 is the singulation seed meter 18. The meters 18A and 18B are attached to a sub frame (not shown) that is supported from the upper frame.

Under each singulation meter 18 is the seed tube 22 which is designed with a rearward curve 22X to create a rearward velocity similar to the forward velocity of the planter. In this way the seed is placed in the seed furrow at a zero relative velocity and thus does not roll or lose the spacing created by the precision singulation meter. Behind the curved seed tube 22 is the straight tube 23 designed to deliver in row fertilizer or other crop input from a bulk meter delivered from the selected compartment of the tank 1 1. In crops that do not show an increased yield advantage T1 to precision planting, the rear tube is used to deposit bulk metered seed and crop inputs.

The precision singulating meters are vacuum based such that a vacuum pressure holds the seeds to the meter disc. Air flow enters through vents in the meter and flows through the hole in the discs turn through the seed pool at the bottom of the meter and a seed fills the hole. As the meter disc turns a singulating comb moves the seed slightly out of the disc hole to knock off any double seeds that may be stuck in a hole. As the disc continues to turn to a location in the meter housing where the vacuum pressure is reduced, and this the seed falls off of the disc. An ejection wheel with pins sized for the disc holes is positioned to pokes through the hole as the vacuum is cut off to ensure all seeds have fallen out of the disc pocket. Air flow for all the meters of the planter is generated by one or more variable speed hydraulically powered fans on the planter

A different metering disc may be used for each type of crop or seed size. To change from one crop to another, a retaining knob is moved so that the desired metering disc can be attached to a hub of the axle in the meter. The variable speed suction fan can be changed to alter the required pressure needed for each crop or seed type and size.

A pair of closing or packer wheels 33 are attached to the rear of the frame of the arm 15 and function to close and pack the seed furrow after fertilizer, crop inputs and seeds have been deposited in their respective furrows. The packer wheels 33 are mounted on a spring loaded bracket 34 and pivot about a transverse axis 35 independently of the main forward part of the frame to maintain packing pressure as the wheels roll along the undulating ground.

Thus Figures 2 to 4 show the first embodiment with a single seeding unit which includes the transport system including at least one tool bar 12 for transport across ground to be seeded. The tool bar can include separate components mounted on suitable support wheels in a number of different designs known in the art. In the embodiment of Figure 2, the packer wheels are adjustably fixed to the arm 15 so as to act as a gauge wheel. In the embodiment of Figure 5, the gauge wheels at the disks act to control depth and to receive the pressure from the hydraulic loading system and the packer wheels are spring mounted to float.

In the embodiment of Figure 2, the deep furrow opening is a shank with a shoe. However in the arrangement of Figure 5 a disk is used for the deep furrow creation as this can displace and, with the addition of the gauge wheel, control the soil flow at higher speed.

A plurality of supply tank compartments 1 , 2 and 3 of the tank 1 1 for containing separately seed and fertilizer are arranged to be transported with the transport system 14. The compartments can contain solely seed for singulated metering or can contain seed mixed with a starter nutrient for use in bulk seeding where the meter is bypassed.

A plurality of row seeding units 15 is provided each for mounting on the transport system 12 at positions for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross. Each row seeding unit 15 is mounted for individual floating movement relative to the transport system with a down pressure device 16 for application of force to the ground engaging components. As the system is designed for small grains, the row seeding units are mounted on tool bar 12 at a fixed constant spacing therealong of less than 15 inches which is known to provide the best row spacings for early crop canopy to reduce weed pressure and maintain moisture thus optimizing yields.

As shown in Figure 3, the compartments are connected to supply lines 36 and 37 together with the line 28 for transporting selected ones of the fertilizer and seed from the tanks 11 separately to each row seeding unit.

A supply selection device 39 in the form of a manifold with suitable valves is arranged to control supply of the seeds from the tanks to the air supply tubes to be carried to the row seeding units to select one or other of the lines 36 and 37. The manifold can be operated by the farmer to direct material from any selected tank to any selected air supply line. Devices of this type are commercially available.

In this way when the line 28 is selected, the supply selection device 39 acts in a first mode to supply the seeds to the singulation meter 18 for singulated supply to the feed mouth of the first supply tube 22. In this mode, additional nutrients from the compartment 3 can be, if required, supplied through the line 37 to the tubes 23 for application to the ground closely adjacent to the seeds.

That is the main or deep banding fertilizer is transported by air in the line 36 to the feed tubes 21 of the furrow forming components for application into the base of the formed furrow. The line 36 can include dividers and branches but is arranged so that the material is metered to each tube 21 to apply a required metered amount of fertilizer as a stream applied to the ground. The line 28 can be connected to transport the seeds to the individual mini-hoppers of the individual units 15 from where the seed is metered into the tubes 22. The line 37 can also be used as an alternative to the line 28 to carry the seed to the second tubes 23 which bypass the singulation metering.

Each row seeding unit includes the singulation meter 18 and the ground engaging component 31 including the tubes 22 and 23 arranged to run in the furrow behind the furrow forming component and to one side of the furrow forming component. This arrangement acts to carry out the known side banding seeding where the seeds are applied to the wall of the furrow spaced from the fertilizer lower tip portion of the shank acting to push soil over the fertilizer to maintain the spacing from the seed and to place the seed on undisturbed soil at the side of the furrow.

In a second mode the seeds are supplied to feed mouth of the second side supply tube 23 bypassing the metering system which is switched off.

The supply selection device 39 thus is arranged to control supply of the fertilizer so as to be operable in the second mode to close off supply of fertilizer to the feed mouth of either the first or second feed tube.

In Figure 5 is shown an embodiment where the seeding unit or arm 15 carries two devices for seeding including each of the elements of the seeding device described above and operating in the same manner.

The key features of this embodiment are: There is a common single electric drive motor 24 mounted the row seeding unit and arranged to drive a common transmission 25 commonly driving the two metering disks.

There is a common single seed hopper 27 feeding seed to each of the first and second singulation meters. This is supplied by the line 26 connected to a common inlet mouth 27A of the hopper which drops material into the hopper to feed the two metering disks with one at each side of the hopper. The single seed hopper of each of the row seeding units is thus filled from a central tank.

There is a pivot coupling 30 allowing pivotal movement of a rear portion of the row seeding unit carrying the furrow forming components, the singulation meters, the ground engaging components and the packer wheels about an axis longitudinal to a direction of movement so as to allow the furrow forming components and the packer wheels to ride up and down as they roll over the ground along the forward direction. A seed sensor 40, 41 is mounted on the tube 22 to measure the flow of singulated seeds through the tube. The tube 22 is attached to the shank body 31 A by a bracket 42 connecting the tube to the shank body at the top.

Claims

32 CLAIMS

1. A seeding drill comprising: a transport system including at least one tool bar for transport across ground to be seeded; a plurality of supply tanks arranged to be transported with the transport system for containing separately seed and fertilizer; a plurality of row seeding units each for mounting on the transport system at positions on the transport system for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross; each row seeding unit being mounted for floating movement relative to the transport system with a down pressure device for application of force to the ground engaging components; supply ducts for transporting respectively the fertilizer and seed separately to each row seeding unit; each row seeding unit comprising: a singulation meter arranged for receiving seeds from one of the supply ducts and for delivering individual seeds; and a ground engaging component for forming a furrow; the ground engaging component including a first supply tube and a separate second supply tube each having a feed mouth and extending to the ground for supplying material to the ground independently of the other of the supply tubes; 33 and a supply selection device arranged to control supply of the seeds to the row seeding units; the supply selection device being arranged in a first mode where the seeds are supplied to the singulation meter for singulated supply to the feed mouth of the first supply tube and in a second mode where the seeds are supplied to feed mouth of the second side supply tube.

2. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein the row seeding units being arranged in the first singulation metering mode where the seeds are supplied to the singulation meter for singulated supply to the ground engaging component for application to the ground in a singulation metered seeding arrangement and in the second bulk seeding mode where the seeds are supplied without singulation metering from the supply duct to the to the ground engaging component for application to the ground in a non-singulation bulk metered seeding arrangement.

3. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein the row seeding units remain, with the ground engaging components in engagement with the ground, on the transport system at said fixed constant spacing therealong in both the first singulation metering mode and in the bulk seeding mode.

4. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein each row seeding unit comprises: a primary furrow forming component for forming a primary furrow at a required depth; a first furrow supply tube for supplying the first fertilizer from the first supply duct to the furrow; a singulation meter arranged for receiving seeds from one of the supply ducts and for delivering individual seeds; a ground engaging component arranged behind and to one side of the furrow forming component to create a secondary furrow in or alongside the furrow; the ground engaging component including at least one supply tube for supplying the seed to the ground into the secondary furrow so as to be located above and one side of the fertilizer.

5. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein each row seeding unit comprises: first and second primary furrow forming components arranged side by side to form two respective spaced parallel furrows; first and second ground engaging components arranged to create a secondary furrow to the side of the respective primary furrow forming component; the ground engaging components each including a supply tube extending to the ground for supplying seeds to the respective furrow independently; first and second singulation meters arranged for receiving seeds and for delivering individual singulated seeds; and a common single drive motor mounted on the row seeding unit and arranged to drive both the first and second singulation meters.

6. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein each row seeding unit comprises: first and second primary furrow forming components arranged side by side to form two respective spaced parallel furrows; first and second ground engaging components arranged to create a secondary furrow to the side of the respective primary furrow forming component; the ground engaging components each including a supply tube extending to the ground for supplying seeds to the respective furrow independently; first and second singulation meters arranged for receiving seeds and for delivering individual singulated seeds; and a common single seed hopper feeding seed to each of the first and second singulation meters.

7. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein each row seeding unit comprises: first and second primary furrow forming components arranged side by side to form two respective spaced parallel furrows; first and second ground engaging components arranged to create a secondary furrow to the side of the respective primary furrow forming component; the ground engaging components each including a supply tube extending to the ground for supplying seeds to the respective furrow independently; first and second singulation meters arranged for receiving seeds and for delivering individual singulated seeds; 36 the ground engaging components also each including a supply tube extending to the ground for supplying seeds or starter fertilizer to the respective secondary furrow.

8. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein each row seeding unit comprises: first and second primary furrow forming components arranged side by side to form two respective spaced parallel furrows; first and second ground engaging components arranged to create a secondary furrow to the side of the respective primary furrow forming component; the ground engaging components each including a supply tube extending to the ground for supplying seeds to the respective furrow independently; first and second singulation meters arranged for receiving seeds and for delivering individual singulated seeds; first and second packer wheels carried on the row seeding unit behind the ground engaging components for running in the respective furrow; and a pivot coupling allowing pivotal movement of a rear portion of the row seeding unit carrying the furrow forming components, the singulation meters, the ground engaging components and the packer wheels so as to allow the furrow forming components and the packer wheels to closely follow the ground.

9. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein each row seeding unit comprises: 37 a primary furrow forming component for forming a furrow at a required depth; a first furrow supply tube for supplying the first fertilizer from the first supply duct to the furrow; a ground engaging component arranged behind and to one side of the furrow forming component to create a secondary furrow in or alongside the primary furrow; the ground engaging component including at least one supply tube for supplying the seed to the ground into the secondary furrow so as to be located above and one side of the fertilizer; wherein the ground engaging component comprises a shank having a lowermost tip portion with a leading edge facing soil in the primary furrow which opens the soil to form the secondary furrow for the seed at a different depth than the primary furrow; wherein the leading edge of the tip of the shank includes a front plane which is inclined at an angle to a line at right angles to a direction along the primary furrow so as to direct soil to flow toward a center line of the primary furrow to cover the fertilizer in the primary furrow and seal the primary furrow with displaced soil from the second furrow.

10. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein each row seeding unit comprises: 38 a primary furrow forming component for forming a primary furrow at a required depth; a first furrow supply tube for supplying the first fertilizer from the first supply duct to the furrow; a ground engaging component arranged behind and to one side of the furrow forming component to create a secondary furrow in or alongside the furrow; the ground engaging component including at least one supply tube for supplying the seed to the ground into the secondary furrow so as to be located above and one side of the fertilizer; wherein the ground engaging component comprises a shank having a lowermost tip portion with a leading surface facing soil in the primary furrow which opens the soil to form the secondary furrow for the seed at a different depth than the primary furrow; wherein the leading surface of the tip portion of the shank includes a hard coating; and wherein the hard coating is thicker on an inner side of the leading surface closer to a center line of the primary furrow than an outer side such that an angle of the hard coating on the tip portion directs soil to flow toward the center line of the primary furrow to cover the fertilizer in the primary furrow and seal the primary furrow with displaced soil. 39

1 1. The seeding drill according to claim 10 wherein the leading surface is inclined downwardly and rearwardly.

12. The seeding drill according to claim 10 or 1 1 wherein the leading surface is planar.

13. The seeding drill according to any one of claims 10 to 12 wherein the leading surface is located downwardly of a covering panel which connects the shank to the seed tube.

14. The seeding drill according to any one of claims 10 to 13 wherein the tip portion of the shank extends rearwardly from the leading surface to a position just in front of the seed tube to protect a bottom end of the seed tube.

15. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein the soil flow direction to form the secondary furrow serves to cover the primary furrow and seal the primary furrow with displaced soil from the second furrow.

16. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein the supply selection device is arranged to control supply of the fertilizer so as to be operable in the first mode to supply the fertilizer to the feed mouth of the second feed tube.

17. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein the supply selection device is arranged to control supply of the fertilizer so as to be operable in the second mode to close off supply of fertilizer to the feed mouth of either the first or second feed tube. 40

18. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein the supply tanks include a plurality of supply tanks each for receiving a selected material, wherein there are provided a plurality of supply ducts for transporting respectively the materials from the tanks separately to each row seeding unit, wherein each row seeding unit comprises a furrow forming component for forming a furrow at a required depth and a first furrow supply tube for supplying the main fertilizer from the first supply duct to the furrow and wherein the supply selection device is arranged to control supply of the materials through the ducts so as to be operable: in the first mode where the seeds are supplied to the singulation meter for singulated supply to the first supply tube and where the second fertilizer is supplied to the second side supply tube; and in the second mode where the seeds are supplied to the second supply tube.

19. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein the first and second side supply tubes are arranged with one in front of the other.

20. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein the singulation meter is turned off in the second mode.

21. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein the first side supply tube is curved to drop the singulated seed at a net zero velocity arranged ahead of the second.

22. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein the ground engaging component comprises an angled shank such that the shank opens 41 the soil to form a furrow for the seed at a different depth than the first furrow and the angle of the shank directs soil to flow in the direction of the first furrow to cover the fertilizer in the first furrow and seal the first furrow with displaced soil from the second furrow.

23. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein each row seeding unit includes a hopper fed by the third duct for supplying the singulation meter.

24. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein the single seed hopper of each of the row seeding units is filled from a central tank.

25. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein depth control of each unit is provided by adjusting gauge wheels on the unit for both furrow openers.

26. The seeding drill according to any preceding claim wherein there is provided a control system in which one driver motor and/or transmission for the precision seed singulation meter can control more than one unit to provide a cost reduced control system.

27. A seeding drill comprising: a transport system including at least one tool bar for transport across ground to be seeded; at least one supply tank arranged to be transported with the transport system for containing seed; 42 a plurality of row seeding units each for mounting on the transport system at positions on the transport system for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross; each row seeding unit being mounted for floating movement relative to the transport system with a down pressure device for application of force to the ground engaging components; the row seeding units being mounted on the transport system at a fixed constant spacing therealong of less than 15 inches; the row seeding units being arranged in a first singulation metering mode where the seeds are supplied to the singulation meter for singulated supply to the ground engaging component for application to the ground in a singulation metered seeding arrangement and in a second bulk seeding mode where the seeds are supplied without singulation metering from the supply duct to the to the ground engaging component for application to the ground in a non-singulation bulk metered seeding arrangement; the row seeding units remaining, with the ground engaging components in engagement with the ground, on the transport system at said fixed constant spacing therealong in both the first singulation metering mode and in the bulk seeding mode.

28. A seeding drill comprising: a transport system including at least one tool bar for transport across ground to be seeded; 43 a plurality of supply tanks arranged to be transported with the transport system for containing separately seed and fertilizer; the supply tanks including at least a first tank for a fertilizer and a second tank for seed; a plurality of row seeding units each for mounting on the transport system at positions on the transport system for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross; each row seeding unit being mounted for floating movement relative to the transport system with a down pressure device for application of force to the ground engaging components; at least first and second supply ducts for transporting respectively the fertilizer and seed separately to each row seeding unit; each row seeding unit comprising: a primary furrow forming component for forming a primary furrow at a required depth; a first furrow supply tube for supplying the first fertilizer from the first supply duct to the furrow; a singulation meter arranged for receiving seeds from one of the supply ducts and for delivering individual seeds; a ground engaging component arranged behind and to one side of the furrow forming component to create a secondary furrow in or alongside the furrow; 44 the ground engaging component including at least one supply tube for supplying the seed to the ground into the secondary furrow so as to be located above and one side of the fertilizer.

29. A seeding drill comprising: a transport system including at least one tool bar for transport across ground to be seeded; a plurality of row seeding units each for mounting on the transport system at positions on the transport system for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross; each row seeding unit being mounted for floating movement relative to the transport system with a down pressure device for application of force to the ground engaging components; each row seeding unit comprising: first and second primary furrow forming components arranged side by side to form two respective spaced parallel furrows; first and second ground engaging components arranged to create a secondary furrow to the side of the respective primary furrow forming component; the ground engaging components each including a supply tube extending to the ground for supplying seeds to the respective furrow independently; first and second singulation meters arranged for receiving seeds and for delivering individual singulated seeds; 45 and a common single drive motor mounted on the row seeding unit and arranged to drive both the first and second singulation meters.

30. A seeding drill comprising: a transport system including at least one tool bar for transport across ground to be seeded; a plurality of row seeding units each for mounting on the transport system at positions on the transport system for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross; each row seeding unit being mounted for floating movement relative to the transport system with a down pressure device for application of force to the ground engaging components; each row seeding unit comprising: first and second primary furrow forming components arranged side by side to form two respective spaced parallel furrows; first and second ground engaging components arranged to create a secondary furrow to the side of the respective primary furrow forming component; the ground engaging components each including a supply tube extending to the ground for supplying seeds to the respective furrow independently; first and second singulation meters arranged for receiving seeds and for delivering individual singulated seeds; and a common single seed hopper feeding seed to each of the first and second singulation meters. 46

31. A seeding drill comprising: a transport system including at least one tool bar for transport across ground to be seeded; a plurality of row seeding units each for mounting on the transport system at positions on the transport system for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross; each row seeding unit being mounted for floating movement relative to the transport system with a down pressure device for application of force to the ground engaging components; each row seeding unit comprising: first and second primary furrow forming components arranged side by side to form two respective spaced parallel furrows; first and second ground engaging components arranged to create a secondary furrow to the side of the respective primary furrow forming component; the ground engaging components each including a supply tube extending to the ground for supplying seeds to the respective furrow independently; first and second singulation meters arranged for receiving seeds and for delivering individual singulated seeds; the ground engaging components also each including a supply tube extending to the ground for supplying seeds or starter fertilizer to the respective secondary furrow.

32. A seeding drill comprising: 47 a transport system including at least one tool bar for transport across ground to be seeded; a plurality of row seeding units each for mounting on the transport system at positions on the transport system for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross; each row seeding unit being mounted for floating movement relative to the transport system with a down pressure device for application of force to the ground engaging components; each row seeding unit comprising: first and second primary furrow forming components arranged side by side to form two respective spaced parallel furrows; first and second ground engaging components arranged to create a secondary furrow to the side of the respective primary furrow forming component; the ground engaging components each including a supply tube extending to the ground for supplying seeds to the respective furrow independently; first and second singulation meters arranged for receiving seeds and for delivering individual singulated seeds; first and second packer wheels carried on the row seeding unit behind the ground engaging components for running in the respective furrow; and a pivot coupling allowing pivotal movement of a rear portion of the row seeding unit carrying the furrow forming components, the singulation 48 meters, the ground engaging components and the packer wheels so as to allow the furrow forming components and the packer wheels to closely follow the ground.

33. A seeding drill comprising: a transport system including at least one tool bar for transport across ground to be seeded; a plurality of row seeding units each for mounting on the transport system at positions on the transport system for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross; each row seeding unit comprising: a primary furrow forming component for forming a furrow at a required depth; a first furrow supply tube for supplying the first fertilizer from the first supply duct to the furrow; a ground engaging component arranged behind and to one side of the furrow forming component to create a secondary furrow in or alongside the primary furrow; the ground engaging component including at least one supply tube for supplying the seed to the ground into the secondary furrow so as to be located above and one side of the fertilizer; wherein the ground engaging component comprises a shank having a lowermost tip portion with a leading edge facing soil in the primary furrow which opens 49 the soil to form the secondary furrow for the seed at a different depth than the primary furrow; wherein the leading edge of the tip of the shank includes a front plane which is inclined at an angle to a line at right angles to a direction along the primary furrow so as to direct soil to flow toward a center line of the primary furrow to cover the fertilizer in the primary furrow and seal the primary furrow with displaced soil from the second furrow.

34. A seeding drill comprising: a transport system including at least one tool bar for transport across ground to be seeded; a plurality of supply tanks arranged to be transported with the transport system for containing separately seed and fertilizer; a plurality of row seeding units each for mounting on the transport system at positions on the transport system for applying seeds and fertilizer to the ground at spaced positions thereacross; each row seeding unit comprising: a primary furrow forming component for forming a primary furrow at a required depth; a first furrow supply tube for supplying the first fertilizer from the first supply duct to the furrow; 50 a ground engaging component arranged behind and to one side of the furrow forming component to create a secondary furrow in or alongside the furrow; the ground engaging component including at least one supply tube for supplying the seed to the ground into the secondary furrow so as to be located above and one side of the fertilizer; wherein the ground engaging component comprises a shank having a lowermost tip portion with a leading surface facing soil in the primary furrow which opens the soil to form the secondary furrow for the seed at a different depth than the primary furrow; wherein the leading surface of the tip portion of the shank includes a hard coating; and wherein the hard coating is thicker on an inner side of the leading surface closer to a center line of the primary furrow than an outer side such that an angle of the hard coating on the tip portion directs soil to flow toward the center line of the primary furrow to cover the fertilizer in the primary furrow and seal the primary furrow with displaced soil.