The Problem
Most seed tubes on the market drop seeds evenly if the tubes remain almost vertical in operation. However, as you drive up or down slopes, especially when seeding lighter seeds such as radish or grass seeds, seeds often hang in the corrugations of the seed tubes. Often these seeds fall out in clumps when the seed tube straightens back out or when enough vibration shakes the seeds loose, resulting in inconsistent seed placement down the rows.
The Solution
We have been able to source a new design of rubber seed tube to help improve seed flow, especially when seeding smaller seeds, such as cover crops or when seeding on rolling ground (or both). These new seed tubes are made from natural rubber and provide excellent flexibility. They also incorporate internal folds above each corrugation, so as the seed tube stretches out, the folds direct the seeds away from the corrugations and help eliminate any seeds being held in the seed tube.
These seed tubes also incorporate a small amount of peroxide into their formulation, this has been found to be a safe and effective way of deterring rodents from damaging the seed tubes.
When installing these seed tubes, be sure to install them the correct way up, so the folds point downwards.
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Learn more about Needham Ag Rubber Seed Tubes