Weekly Spotlight Series
For generations, farmers have been planting rice by tossing handfuls of seed into a field until it is covered. Unfortunately, this inexact method causes unequal seed distribution, which reduces yields and limits farmer income.
The drum seeder is a simple piece of equipment that can transform the way farmers sow their fields. The design is straightforward and easy to use. A series of plastic drums containing seed is linked horizontally with wheels on both ends. The farmer stands in a harness and pulls the unit behind him, dispensing seed up to 16 rows at a time.
This modest technology allows farmers to plant crops in evenly-spaced rows, ensuring they get the most out of their fertilizer and avoid wasting seed, which in turn leads to significant improvements in crop yield and quality. By reducing production costs and improving yields, drum seeders can have a significant impact on farmers’ incomes and livelihoods.
