Affordable Discs Seeders & Press Wheels: Using RYAN NT Retrofit Discs & Coil Press Wheels in Mallala, SA
In Mallala, South Australia, farmer David Cawrse, shares his thoughts after the 2023 planting season. David used two RYAN NT products for this season: the Retrofit Discs fitted to his AFM bar and the Coil Press Wheels installed on his Ezee On bar. These innovations have allowed David to achieve exceptional seed placement, improved crop establishment, and consistent performance across a variety of crops and conditions.
Disc Seeders: Improved Versatility with Retrofit Discs
David equipped his 30-foot-wide AFM bar with RYAN NT Retrofit Discs. Farmers like David are getting affordable disc seeders by going down this path. David’s setup is on 8-inch spacings to improve his small seed planting operations. “We decided to retrofit the Ryan discs onto it, mainly for small seeds,” David said. Over time, he expanded their use to sow lentils, barley, and occasionally wheat, depending on the stubble load. “We can go into standing straw a little bit more than what we can with a tyne seeder,” he explained, emphasising the discs’ ability to handle high stubble loads effectively.
The Retrofit Discs also offer precise seed placement, making them an excellent choice for shallow planting. “Tend to that little bit shallower placement, if we want it to be,” David noted, highlighting their adaptability. Covering approximately 1,500 acres this year alone, his current set of discs has lasted for six years, sowing a total of 8,000 acres over their lifespan.
David Cawrse with his AFM Bar with RYAN NT Discs
Press Wheels: Exceptional Performance in Wet and Dry Conditions
David's Ezee On bar fitted with tynes has been using RYAN NT Coil Press Wheels. The wheels proved invaluable during a wet planting season. “We bought the coils from Paul, and yeah, we’re very happy with the job they did in a fairly wet seeding year,” he shared. Unlike traditional wheels, the Coil Press Wheels are designed to prevent mud build-up, reducing downtime and ensuring smooth operation even in challenging conditions. “They didn’t build up with mud at all,” David said, pointing out how even unwashed, the wheels performed admirably.
The press wheels’ ability to leave a packed seedbed while maintaining loose soil on top ensures optimal conditions for germination. “Leaving a bit of packing around the seed but leaving a bit of loose stuff around the top of the seed rows,” David explained. These press wheel features are equally effective in dry sowing conditions. This in turn makes the Coil Press Wheels a versatile solution for varied field environments.
David used the coil press wheels with tynes, but they also work extremely well with the RYAN NT discs. Fitting both at the same time can create the ultimate no-till system. Each year, more and more RYAN NT retrofit disc seeders with coil press wheels are planting in Australia.
AFM Bar with RYAN NT Discs
Field Results: A Beast Crop and Strong Germination
During the 2023 season, David used the Coil Press Wheels to sow a beast barley crop in early June. Despite challenging conditions, the results were impressive. “Very good establishment and very happy with the result,” David shared. The Retrofit Discs also contributed to the success of his lentil and barley crops. David pointed out how the discs showcased their effectiveness across diverse soil types, including limestone country. “We’ve sort of got limestone country that can rattle them around a little bit,” David explained, but the discs held up well.
David's Ezee On bar has the Coil Press Wheels fitted on a lazy bar across the back. This style of retrofit is very common for farmers. If you already have a lazy bar across the back, RYAN NT has a different hub patterns so the wheels can easily be fitted.
David Cawrse's Ezee On bar fitted with RYAN NT Coil Press Wheels
How Does it Compare to the Other Disc Seeders and Press Wheels?
Both the Retrofit Discs and Coil Press Wheels have demonstrated exceptional durability in David’s operations. The discs, lasting over six years, have proven their worth, even in rugged terrain. Similarly, the Coil Press Wheels have reduced the need for cleaning and maintenance, ensuring consistent performance throughout the planting season.
David’s Recommendation
When asked about the Coil Press Wheels, David did not hesitate to express his satisfaction. “We are very happy with the job they did,” he said, referring to the press wheels. Whether dealing with heavy stubble loads, wet conditions, or dry sowing, these tools have delivered reliable and efficient results.
Word from the Company
The team at RYAN NT is proud to support farmers like David Cawrse. The company is driven to create innovative solutions tailored to Australian farming conditions. “David’s story demonstrates how our Retrofit Discs and Coil Press Wheels can transform seeding operations with improved efficiency and adaptability,” said a company spokesperson. “We’re committed to delivering tools that perform across diverse conditions.”
Learn More About RYAN NT Products
Explore how RYAN NT can enhance your seeding equipment with solutions like Retrofit Discs and Coil Press Wheels:
Conclusion
David Cawrse’s experience with RYAN NT Retrofit Discs and Coil Press Wheels highlights their transformative impact on modern farming operations. From precise seed placement and improved stubble handling to exceptional crop establishment in wet and dry conditions, these tools have proven invaluable. For farmers seeking reliable and efficient upgrades for their disc seeders, RYAN NT offers solutions designed to perform across all conditions.
