1. What is a Seed Rate Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the amount of seed required per hectare based on target plant population, germination rate, and seed weight.

Purpose: It helps farmers and agronomists optimize seed usage for crop production while achieving desired plant densities.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• Seed Rate — Seeds per area (kg/ha)
• Target Population — Desired plants per area (plants/ha)
• Germination Rate — Fraction that germinate (0-1)
• Seed Weight — Weight per seed (kg)

Explanation: The target population is adjusted for expected germination rate, then multiplied by individual seed weight to get total seed requirement.

3. Importance of Seed Rate Calculation

Details: Proper seed rate calculation ensures optimal plant density, maximizes yield potential, and prevents over- or under-seeding.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the target plant population (plants/ha), germination rate (default 0.85), and seed weight (default 0.00035 kg for wheat). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical germination rate?
A: Most certified seeds have 85-95% germination (0.85-0.95). Use lower values for saved seed or poor conditions.

Q2: How do I find seed weight?
A: Weigh 1000 seeds and divide by 1000. Wheat is ~0.00035 kg, barley ~0.00045 kg, oats ~0.0004 kg.

Q3: What target population should I use?
A: Varies by crop: winter wheat 200-300 plants/m² (2-3 million/ha), oilseed rape 30-80 plants/m².

Q4: Does this account for field losses?
A: No, consider adding 10-20% for poor seedbeds or drilling conditions.

Q5: How does seed size affect the calculation?
A: Larger seeds (higher weight) require higher seed rates to achieve the same plant population.