It’s Planting Time

Hi, I’m Marlin Melander, a technology marketing specialist with AGCO in the US. This time of year always brings back memories of getting the equipment ready on my family’s farm in North Dakota. This included pulling the planter and drill out of the machine shed, servicing the tractors and purchasing seed and fertilizer.

Now, it not only involves getting the tractor and planting equipment ready have but also making sure that your equipment is ready to go. One way to make sure it’s ready is to contact your AGCO, Challenger, Massey Ferguson or White planter dealer to see if there are any available software updates for your planter, tractor and steering system. Having the latest updates can make your technology products work better and faster. And who doesn’t want to hear the words better and faster when planting season is starting?

Be sure to also check the planter row units. Don’t just blow them out with the air compressor, put seed in the hoppers and head to the field. Do a thorough inspection and cleaning of each unit. Replace any worn parts before they cause problems and check the brushes and disks for correct clearance. A properly set up planter will go far in providing you with a properly spaced stand. The operator manual for our White planters has an entire section devoted to what needs to be done before taking the planter to the field. And, if you have questions, make sure to call the dealer. Visit AGCOpubs.com for North American technical publications or see your local dealer.

Well, I guess it’s time to get back to work, for both of us. Have a great planting season and check back for technology updates that will help you make all your equipment tasks better and faster. In fact, let me know what questions you have by leaving your comments below and I’ll do my best to cover your questions in future posts.

Happy farming,
Marlin