1.  Uniform Seed to Soil Contact

   • Seeds need complete contact with the soil
   • Ensure all seeds imbibe water at the same rate

   • Factors affecting uniform soil to seed contact:

     • Soil conditions (too many clods, too wet, etc.)
     • Planter closing system not firming row
     • Old crop residue in-furrow (hair pinning)

2. Uniform Soil Temperature

   • Germination starts @ 50 degrees
   • Seeds need the same soil temperature as their neighbor

   • Factors affecting uniform soil temperature:

     • Planting depth difference within a row
     • Uneven residue cover on the soil surface
     • Soil characteristics

3. Uniform Moisture in Seed Zone

• • Ensures all seeds imbibe water at the same rate

  • Factors affecting uniform moisture:

    • Soil characteristics
    • Tillage patterns
    • Planting depth difference within a row

Effects of Uneven Emergence – All Season