Types of Seed Planting Systems

Belt Seeding Systems

• Belt seeding systems are characterized by seed-size-appropriate round holes punched into the seeder's belt. Holes are uniformly placed throughout the seeder to promote even spacing. Seeds are then pushed through the holes in the belt and into the soil. Seeds that are not round do not work well with this system according to the North Carolina Cooperative Extension. Belt seeding systems are commonly used with seeds between tomato- and watermelon-seed size.

Vacuum Seeding Systems

• A vacuum seeder is a much more complicated system than the belt seeder. With a vacuum seeder, seed is drawn against a vibrating vertical plate with holes drilled in it to accommodate seed space. The system creates a vacuum that pushes the seeds through the plate and into the prescribed row for planting. A variety of seed sizes can be used with these systems.

Spoon Type Seeders

• Literal to its name, the spoon seeder works with a number of small spoons that scoop seed from a bag reservoir and push them down a drop shoot. Spacing is achieved in this system through the gear ratios and how far apart spoons are arraigned. Different spoon sizes can be incorporated into the system for use with larger or smaller seed types.

Pneumatic Seeder

• Whereas a vacuum sealer uses the force created by the lack of air to push seeds into the soil, a pneumatic seeder uses the exact opposite principle. The seed is held against a drum until the air pressure builds. Then the seed is pushed down a series of tubes where it is literally blown into place. The North Carolina Cooperative Extension recommends this seeding system only for large vegetable seeds.

Bed Planting Systems

• Bed planting does not use one particular seeder over another. This seeding system alters the way soil is arraigned on a given plot of land, raising the areas where seeds are planted to create tight ridges and valleys. This improves plant spacing, increases control over irrigation, rainwater management and nutrient composition according to the website for Knowledge Bank.