Retrofit Discs on a Flexi-Coil ST820: Seth and Gary Roberts’ Experience in Port Pirie, SA
In the sandy soils of Port Pirie, South Australia, efficient seeding is essential to maintaining crop productivity. For father-and-son team Gary and Seth Roberts, retrofitting their Flexi-Coil ST820 with RYAN NT Retrofit Double Discs proved to be a transformative decision during the 2023 planting season. Operating with 350lb breakout tynes, the Roberts family shares their insights into how the discs have simplified operations, improved trash handling, and enhanced crop outcomes.
Eliminating Clogging and Trash Handling Issues on the Flexi-Coil ST820
Trash handling has long been a challenge for farmers using traditional tyne setups. For Gary, switching to RYAN NT discs eliminated these headaches with their Flexi-Coil ST820. “The beauty of the Ryan discs is no clogging up,” Gary explained. “I never got out of the tractor once to unhook all the rubbish. That was a lot of time saving in that regard.”
Before adopting the retrofit discs, the Roberts family struggled with their coulter setup, particularly when managing melon crops. “Coulters did not do the job with the tynes that we were looking for because the melons were not cut up,” Gary noted. With the discs in place, trash management is no longer a concern, allowing them to maintain efficiency during planting.
Seth echoed this sentiment, emphasising the discs’ ability to handle heavy trash. “I’m just happy that we don’t have to panic with summer spraying,” Seth shared. “We’re happy to leave quite a bit of trash on top and cut through it at seeding time.”
Seth and Gary Roberts with their Flexi-Coil ST820 fitted with RYAN NT Discs
Improved Seed Depth and Placement with their Flexi-Coil ST820
Seed placement and depth are crucial for achieving uniform germination and optimal crop outcomes. Gary was particularly impressed with how the RYAN NT discs ensured consistent results with their Flexi-Coil ST820. “Seed placement seems to be very good,” Gary explained. “Germination has been quite exceptional, and the depth is exactly where we need it.”
Seth added that maintaining the correct seed depth helps protect against environmental challenges. “When you’ve got the seed placed correctly, you’re not drawing moisture from the crop unnecessarily,” he explained. This precision ensures that the plants receive the moisture they need without being impacted by fluctuations in soil conditions.
The Roberts family planted their first crop of the season—Hammer wheat—on previously lupin-cropped land in early May. “We probably put it out at 50 or 60kg per hectare,” Gary noted, and the results speak for themselves. “As you can see for yourself, quite a healthy crop,” he said while inspecting their scepter wheat field.
Seth and Gary Roberts' Flexi-Coil ST820 fitted with RYAN NT Discs
Reduced Maintenance and Time Savings with Discs on the Flexi-Coil ST820
The RYAN NT discs have proven to be a time-saver, significantly reducing the need for constant field adjustments and maintenance. Seth highlighted the simplicity of the setup: “Just keep it greased, and you’re laughing.”
This ease of maintenance and the discs’ ability to handle trash without clogging, allowed the Roberts' to cover more ground efficiently. “We’ve done 1200 hectares so far with it and we’re very happy,” Seth shared.
Gary also pointed out the efficiency of their seeding operations, noting that the discs reduced the frequency of desiccation required. “We used to do one desiccation a month out from seeding time – but other than that you can cut through whatever’s there,” Gary explained. This has further streamlined their operations, saving both time and resources.
Gary Roberts in his Scepter crop sown with his Flexi-Coil ST820 fitted with RYAN NT discs
Pre-Emergent Chemicals: Proceeding with Caution
While the retrofit discs excel in cutting through trash and improving seed placement, Seth highlighted the need for caution when using pre-emergent chemicals. “We’re predominantly sand here, so you do have to be more careful with your pre-emergents,” Seth explained. He noted that while seeding into wet ground followed by rainfall isn’t much different from a tyne system, challenges arise during dry spells.
“If you cut it in during a dry spell and go at the same rate as a tyne, your plants could suck up the pre-emergent chemical. This is because you’re pushing it down with your seed rather than peeling it out,” Seth added. By adapting their chemical application rates, the Roberts family has successfully navigated these challenges, achieving consistent results.
Gary Roberts in his Hammer Wheat crop sown with his Flexi-Coil ST820 fitted with RYAN NT discs
Commitment to RYAN NT Discs After Fitting Them on the Flexi-Coil ST820
When asked if they would ever consider returning to a tyne-based system, Gary’s response was unequivocal. “Probably not in my lifetime,” he said. “We’re happy with the discs.”
The Roberts family’s satisfaction with the RYAN NT Retrofit Double Discs underscores their reliability, ease of use, and effectiveness. From reducing maintenance demands to improving crop germination, the discs are an invaluable addition to their Flexi-Coil ST820.
Word from the Company
RYAN NT is committed to providing farmers with innovative solutions that simplify operations and improve outcomes. “The Roberts' success with our retrofit discs on their Flexi-Coil ST820 highlights the value of investing in adaptable, efficient machinery,” said a company spokesperson. “Our goal is to help farmers like Seth and Gary achieve exceptional results with minimal hassle.”
Learn More About RYAN NT Retrofit Discs
Are you ready to enhance your seeding operations like Seth and Gary Roberts? The RYAN NT Retrofit Double Discs offer a proven solution for farmers looking to upgrade their existing machinery. Explore more about the benefits of these discs:
Conclusion
For Seth and Gary Roberts, the decision to retrofit their Flexi-Coil ST820 with RYAN NT double discs has paid off in countless ways. From eliminating trash handling issues to improving seed placement and reducing maintenance, the discs have proven their value time and time again. With 1200 hectares planted in 2023 and exceptional crop results to show for it, the Roberts family’s story is a testament to the reliability and efficiency of RYAN NT products.
For farmers seeking a practical, cost-effective solution to enhance their seeding operations, RYAN NT Retrofit Double Discs are a trusted choice. As Gary confidently states, “We’re happy with the discs.”
