ISU Hosts Planter Setup Workshops

By Andi Anderson

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach hosts Planter University workshops to help farmers improve crop planting results. These workshops take place from February 2 to February 6 at five locations across Iowa. The program supports farmers, service providers, and equipment dealers who want to improve planting success.

Planter University explains how planters work and how to adjust them for different field and seed needs. The workshops focus on proper planter setup, equipment care, and calibration. These steps help farmers plant seed at the correct depth, spacing, and speed.

Experts explain that better planter setup improves crop growth and yield. Many past participants report better planting results and stronger crop performance after attending this program. The training offers practical value that helps improve farm income.

Each workshop uses hands-on learning. Small groups work with real planter row units that show different planter technologies. This approach helps farmers understand both traditional and high-speed planters. Experts explain the basic science behind planting and how to test planting results in the field.

Specialists from the ISU Digital Agriculture group lead the sessions. They share simple methods to help farmers choose the right planter settings for their own equipment and field conditions. Certified Crop Adviser education credits are also available.

The workshops are held in Ames, Carroll, Kanawha, Independence, and Otley. Group sizes are limited to support hands-on learning. Registration costs one hundred dollars per person and must be completed online before each workshop. On-site registration is not available.

Registration includes lunch, drinks, learning materials, and education credits. Check-in starts at 8:30 a.m. and sessions begin at 9:00 a.m. The program ends around 3:00 p.m.

Planter University helps farmers protect their equipment, improve planting quality, and increase crop success. This training supports stronger farms and better harvest results across Iowa.

Photo Credit: istock-kat72