Planter and Drill Basics

What is the difference between a planter and a drill?

A planter places individual seeds at set spacing, often in rows wide enough for cultivation. It is used for row crops such as corn and beans. A drill places seed in narrow rows, often in a continuous stream, and is used for small grains, pasture and hay seed.

A broadcast seeder spreads seed on the surface. Each tool suits different seeds and goals. For pasture renovation, a no-till drill can place seed into existing sod with less disturbance.

If you are planting pasture or conservation seed, ask your conservation district what planting dates and seed mixes fit your area and whether any program supports the work.

What should small farms consider when choosing one?

Think about the seed you plant, the acreage, the ground conditions and your tractor. Row spacing, seed size, hopper capacity and the way seed is metered all matter.

Many small farms borrow, rent or hire custom planting. Conservation districts and some extension offices have drills available to rent for pasture or conservation seeding. Ask locally.

Ask the seller or renter to show how to adjust and clean the machine, and keep a copy of the manual.

• Which crops and seed sizes you will plant
• Tractor power and hitch type
• Seedbed condition: tilled, no-till or sod
• Working width and your field shape
• Availability of local rental or custom services

How do you set rate and depth?

The manual and the seed tag give starting settings, but real fields differ. Seed rate depends on the crop, the seed size and your goals. Extension publications and seed suppliers can help you choose a rate for your area.

Depth matters just as much. Too shallow and seed dries out or washes away, too deep and seedlings cannot emerge. After you set the planter, dig up planted seed and check depth and spacing in the field.

Write your settings and results in a notebook each time. After a few seasons you will have a record that is far more useful than any chart.

• Start from manual and seed tag settings
• Dig and check planted depth
• Check spacing and seed placement
• Record the results

Why calibrate?

Calibration is checking that the machine really delivers the amount you intend. Seed size, shape and moisture all change how a drill meters seed. Your manual describes a calibration procedure for your machine, and extension offices often offer worksheets.

Calibrate again when you change seed lots or crops. A small error multiplied over many acres wastes seed or leaves thin stands.

Using certified or tested seed, when available for your crop, helps you know what you are planting. Ask your extension office what testing options exist.

• Keep ground speed steady
• Check that all rows are feeding
• Watch the monitor or look behind the machine
• Stop and fix skips early

How do you prepare the seedbed?

Good seed-to-soil contact makes the difference. Level, firm seedbeds with controlled residue help seeds emerge evenly. Soil moisture and temperature affect timing, and your local extension office can advise on planting windows for your area.

Check the weather. Planting into soil that is too wet can cause compaction and poor stands, and planting too early can expose seedlings to frost.

Weed pressure, residue and moisture vary each year. Walk the field before planting and decide whether the seedbed is ready.

How do you maintain seeding equipment?

Empty hoppers after use, since seed attracts rodents and moisture damages parts. Clean seed cups, tubes and openers, and check for wear on discs, bearings and chains. Replace worn parts before the season.

Grease fittings and check tire pressure and hitch parts. Store the machine under cover.

Check that the drive wheel and chains run freely and the openers cut cleanly.

• Empty hoppers after use
• Clean seed tubes and cups
• Check discs and bearings
• Store under cover

What safety rules should you follow?

Shut down and remove the key before adjusting or clearing blockages. Be careful with treated seed, which can be hazardous. Read the label, wear the recommended protection, and follow disposal instructions from the manufacturer and your state agriculture agency.

Support folded or raised toolbars with proper locks, and keep bystanders away when folding or unfolding.

Seed treatments, fertilizer and chemicals each have their own labels. Follow them, and ask your state agriculture department about any license required for certain products.

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Rural Farm Life Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.