Upgrading Sugarcane Billet Planting Efficiency: Fertilising with Retrofit Double Discs vs. Standard Systems
In this blog, we examine how retrofit discs compare to standard sugarcane fertiliser rig ground-engaging systems. Learn why upgrading could lead to improved crops, reduced breakdowns, and higher returns.
Sugarcane Fertiliser Rig with RYAN NT retrofit discs
Enhancing Australia’s Sugarcane Billet Planting Industry, One Fertiliser Rig at a time
In Australia’s sugarcane industry, efficiency and precision are everything. From the fertile coastal soils of Queensland to the northern reaches of New South Wales, growers rely on dependable equipment that delivers consistent performance under challenging conditions.
As billet planting continues to dominate the sugarcane industry, more farmers are turning to innovative solutions to put their fertiliser in. The RYAN NT Retrofit Double Disc system is an answer, which can enhance the effectiveness of farmer's existing sugarcane planting process.
Sugarcane Fertiliser Rig with RYAN NT retrofit discs
Understanding Standard Sugarcane Billet Planting Processes
Traditional sugarcane fertiliser rig systems in Australia are built to open furrows and deliver fertiliser. Typically, these systems use either ripper tines, knifepoints, or mouldboard-style openers to create furrows. While effective in many situations, these standard systems can encounter challenges, particularly in heavy soils, compacted paddocks, or fields with high residue loads.
These challenges include:
- Uneven furrow depth
- Soil throw that disrupts row spacing
- Trash blockages
- Excessive soil disturbance leading to moisture loss
- Reduced performance in wet or heavy clay conditions
Growers relying solely on these factory setups may also face downtime due to wear or damage in more challenging conditions, or increased costs resulting from the need for additional tillage passes to prepare the seedbed.
RYAN NT Disc Conversion
The RYAN NT Retrofit Double Disc Advantage for Sugarcane Fertiliser Systems
The Retrofit Double Disc system from RYAN NT offers an innovative, simple solution to these issues. These discs are designed to bolt directly onto your existing sugarcane fertiliser rig toolbars. Our system has replaced traditional tine or mouldboard openers with high-performance double discs. This not only modernises the planter setup but also dramatically improves in-field performance.
Key Benefits of the RYAN NT Retrofit Double Discs
- Superior Trash Handling:
One of the standout benefits of the retrofit disc system is its ability to slice cleanly through heavy trash without blockages. In modern cane farming, where residue retention and minimum till are increasingly common, this is a game changer. Discs cut through surface matter rather than dragging it, ensuring consistent furrow placement and avoiding downtime. - Reduced Soil Disturbance:
Traditional openers tend to heave and throw soil, which disrupts soil structure and leads to moisture loss. In contrast, the double disc system creates a clean, narrow furrow with minimal soil movement. This is particularly beneficial in lighter soils or during dry spells when moisture conservation is critical. - Consistent Furrow Depth:
Precision is key to successful billet planting. Inconsistent depth can affect germination and yield. The RYAN NT system provides excellent depth control, maintaining an even furrow for uniform billet placement across varying soil types. - Improved Machine Efficiency:
By reducing draft and resistance, double discs place less strain on tractors and sugarcane billet planting equipment. This results in lower fuel usage, reduced wear on machinery, and the ability to cover more ground faster. Therefore, these benefits are a significant advantage during tight planting windows. - Plug-and-Play Compatibility:
Designed to retrofit onto most frames sizes, the RYAN NT system is simple to install, eliminating the need to overhaul or replace the entire machine. This makes it a cost-effective solution for growers looking to upgrade without investing in a load of money. - Longer Service Life:
Double discs tend to wear more evenly and last longer than ripper tines or knifepoints. This reduces the frequency of maintenance and replacement, minimising planter downtime and long-term costs.
Disc Planting: A Growing Trend in Modern Sugarcane Billet Farming
Across the sugarcane industry, a growing trend toward reduced tillage and conservation farming is emerging. The benefits of disc-based sugarcane billet planting systems align perfectly with these goals:
- Better soil structure
- Reduced erosion
- Enhanced water infiltration
- Lower operational costs
As growers adopt GPS-guided controlled traffic farming and precision ag practices, systems like RYAN NT’s retrofit discs help align traditional sugarcane billet planting processes with modern expectations.
Sugarcane Fertiliser Rig with RYAN NT retrofit discs
Industry Feedback for discs on sugarcane fertiliser rigs
Growers considering disc-based upgrades to their sugarcane fertiliser systems often cite improved trash handling, smoother operation, increased moisture retention and more consistent planting conditions as key motivations. While outcomes may vary depending on conditions, many users report reduced soil disturbance and improved machine efficiency following retrofitting.
RYAN NT Retrofit Double Disc in action
One Last Word...
Standard sugarcane billet planter systems have served the industry well for decades, but farming conditions and expectations have evolved. With increasing pressure on costs, efficiency, and sustainability, retrofitting your existing machine with RYAN NT's Double Disc system could be one of the smartest upgrades you make. It offers improved performance, reduced soil disturbance, enhanced trash handling, and real-world cost savings.
If you're ready to take your sugarcane billet planting to the next level, explore more about the RYAN NT Retrofit Double Disc system here: https://ryannt.com.au/retrofit-double-discs/
Learn More About RYAN NT Products
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