New metering roller for multi-species seed mixtures
Stocks Ag has introduced a new metering roller designed to improve the accuracy of applying increasingly diverse seed mixtures used for Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) options, stewardship schemes and cover crops.
The new 14 Tooth Medium Roller has been developed in response to growing demand from farmers and contractors applying seed blends containing widely differing seed sizes and shapes. According to the company, traditional metering rollers can struggle to deliver consistent application rates when mixtures include species such as mustard, buckwheat, sunflower and vetch.
Tim Farrow, Technical Director at Stocks Ag, said the move reflects changing cropping practices.
“We are no longer being asked to apply a simple grass seed mixture. The introduction of SFI options and increasing interest in cover crops has created demand for metering rollers capable of handling much more diverse seed blends.”
The roller incorporates flexible-tipped vanes designed to improve seed flow and maintain an even distribution of different seed types. Stocks Ag says the design has been tested over the past 12 months using a wide range of commercially available seed mixtures.
The company also offers bespoke metering rollers with different numbers of metering segments to suit individual application requirements.
One of the key advantages for existing users is compatibility. The new metering roller fits all current Stocks Ag feed blocks, allowing owners of Fan Jet, Rotor Meter, Rotor Jet and Turbo Jet applicators to upgrade existing machines without replacing the complete applicator.
Farmers and contractors can purchase replacement rollers or complete feed block assemblies through Stocks Ag’s recently launched online ordering platform.
As environmental schemes continue to encourage more complex seed mixtures, manufacturers are increasingly adapting application equipment to ensure accurate establishment and maintain confidence in variable species blends.
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