As planting season winds down, it's time to start thinking about the end-of-season care for your ExactEmerge planter. Proper maintenance now can save you time and money when you’re ready to get back in the field next season. Here’s a quick guide on what to do—and what not to do—when preparing to store your planter for the winter.

Essential Steps for Planter Maintenance

1. Remove Seed Bowls and Brushes

The first and most important step is to remove the seed bowls and brushes from your planter. Many operators neglect this step, but leaving these components in the planter over winter can significantly impact their performance. Brushes left in the planter can develop imprints from leftover seeds, which can lead to poor singulation and spacing in the next planting season.

For instance, a brush left in a planter with beans can develop numerous imprints, leading to malformations that affect its efficiency. In contrast, a well-maintained brush without seed imprints will remain straight and perform optimally.

2. Store Brushes Properly

Once you’ve removed the brushes, it’s crucial to store them correctly to prevent damage. Hang the brushes on a 3-4 inch PVC pipe to avoid creasing the backing. This ensures that the bristles stay in good condition and are ready for use next season.

3. Remove and Store Seed Bowls

Leaving the seed bowls in the meter can cause the double eliminator tines to curve, reducing their effectiveness. Remove the bowls and store them vertically to maintain their shape. You can use a small broom handle to hang them up in a vertical position, ensuring they stay in top condition.

4. Apply Graphite Spray Lube

After removing the bowls, inspect them for wear. You’ll likely notice areas where the graphite coating has worn off due to friction with the seals. Apply a graphite spray lube to these areas to restore the coating. This helps protect the bowls from further wear and extends their lifespan. Regular application of the graphite spray can prevent the bowls from developing grooves and ensure a smooth operation.

5. Protect Against Rodents

Rodents are attracted to leftover seeds in the planter and can cause significant damage by chewing on components. Ensure all seeds are removed, and consider using rodent repellents or traps to protect your equipment during storage.

Financial Implications

Neglecting these maintenance steps can lead to significant costs. For example, each brush costs over $250, and with a 24-row planter, replacing all brushes can cost upwards of $6,000. By taking a little time to remove and properly store these components, you can avoid these unnecessary expenses.

Proper end-of-season care for your ExactEmerge planter is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Removing seed bowls and brushes, storing them correctly, applying graphite spray lube, and protecting against rodents are simple steps that can save you time and money. Take a little care now, and your planter will be ready to roll next season.