Double Disc Seeder Option: Crowhurst’s Experience with Retrofit Discs & Coil Press Wheels on his AFM
In Blighty, located in the Riverina region of New South Wales, grower Stewart Crowhurst has gone with an affordable double disc seeder option. Stewart has been using RYAN NT Retrofit Double Discs on his AFM 200 Series cultivator for several seasons now. More recently, he has been trialling RYAN NT Coil Press Wheels, noting their impact on germination and soil finish. Stewart shares his experience with these tools, detailing how they have improved his operations across wheat, oats, rice, and millet planting.
Reliable Performance from this Affordable Double Disc Seeder Option
Stewart has been using the RYAN NT double disc seeder system for about two years, covering an estimated 2,800 to 3,000 acres. His AFM 200 Series cultivator is set on 8-inch spacings, making the discs a perfect fit for his seeding system. “The reason we went to the disc system is for the cover cropping and better trash flow,” Stewart explained. With these discs, he has experienced excellent germination rates across various crops.
Stewart’s tyne breakout force is 230 pounds, and he shared that they haven’t had any issues with penetration. Whether working in fallow ground or direct drilling millet into hard soil, the discs have proven their reliability by consistently achieving the desired seeding depth. Stewart noted that the desired seed depth for millet is three-quarters of an inch to an inch.
Additionally, the RYAN NT Double Disc Seeder Discs are lightweight and require minimal horsepower, improving efficiency. “We’re running a 12-metre machine with 280 horsepower, and the tractor doesn’t even sneeze at it,” Stewart said.
Stewart (Left) and David (Right) Crowhurst with their AFM Bar fitted with RYAN NT Retrofit discs
Trialling Coil Press Wheels with the Retrofit RYAN NT Double Disc Seeder Option
In addition to the discs, Stewart has been trialling RYAN NT Coil Press Wheels alongside the Manutec press wheels on his setup. The results have been promising. “We have noticed very good germination with the coil packers,” Stewart said, highlighting their ability to leave a smooth furrow and achieve excellent seed-to-soil contact.
The Coil Press Wheels are specifically designed to self-clean and optimize soil contact, which Stewart found particularly useful. Their spring-coil design ensures a durable and low-maintenance option for farmers looking to improve their planting efficiency. Stewart has already committed to replacing his older press wheels. As those wheels have started splitting, he'll purchase a full set of coil press wheels for the next season.
The Crowhurst's AFM Bar fitted with RYAN NT Retrofit discs
Efficiency and Moisture Retention with Double Disc Seeder
Stewart’s RYAN discs easily cut through the rice stubble and heavy trash with his double disc seeder. Stewart has noted several key advantages witht the idsc. One that he pointed out with the RYAN NT discs is their ability to retain soil moisture during planting. While showcasing his millet crop planted at 30 kilograms per hectare, Stewart demonstrated how the discs help lock in moisture. Stewart did this by parting the trash cover on top of the furrow and pointing out the moisture found underneath. By preserving soil structure and minimising disturbance, the discs contribute to healthier germination conditions, even in drier environments.
The RYAN NT Retrofit Double Discs also excel in no-till and reduced-till systems, where preserving soil structure is critical. Their precision ensures minimal soil disturbance, while their superior trash-handling capabilities help prevent issues like hairpinning. These features allow for better seed-to-soil contact and improved germination, making them a preferred choice for versatile planting.
Stewart highlighting moisture retained with the RYAN NT System
Durability and Long-Term Planning
With the RYAN NT Retrofit Double Discs already established as a reliable part of his operation, Stewart is now focused on integrating the Coil Press Wheels fully into his seeding system. The durability of both products ensures that they will remain valuable tools for years to come. By gradually replacing his older press wheels with RYAN NT Coil Press Wheels, Stewart is aligning his equipment with modern, efficient farming practices.
The Crowhurst's double disc seeder and coil press wheel system on their AFM
Word from the Company
The team at RYAN NT is excited to support innovative growers like Stewart Crowhurst. “Stewart’s experience with our retrofit double discs and coil press wheels demonstrates how these tools can work together or independently to achieve optimal results,” said a company spokesperson. “We’re proud to offer farmers durable and adaptable solutions that enhance efficiency and productivity.”
The Crowhurst's double disc seeder system on their AFM
Learn More About RYAN NT Retrofit Double Discs & Coil Press Wheels
Ready to explore the benefits of RYAN NT equipment for your farm? Learn more about how the Retrofit Double Discs and Coil Press Wheels can optimize your seeding operations:
RYAN NT Retrofit Discs – Tyne to Disc Conversion
Conclusion
Stewart Crowhurst’s story highlights the adaptability and efficiency of RYAN NT Retrofit Double Discs and Coil Press Wheels. From handling heavy trash and rice stubble to leaving a smooth finish for optimal germination, these tools have proven their value across multiple crops and conditions. As Stewart transitions to a full set of Coil Press Wheels next season, his operation stands to gain even more efficiency and reliability.
For farmers seeking durable, efficient upgrades to their seeding equipment, RYAN NT offers solutions that deliver results season after season.
