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Seeding Rate

Seed Rate Estimation


How to Estimate Seeding Rate Using CalculatedAG.com

Accurately estimating seeding rates is crucial for ensuring optimal plant density and maximizing crop yield. Follow the steps below to estimate your seeding rate:


  1. Enter Number of Seeds per Pound
    Input the number of seeds per pound based on your specific seed lot. This value can vary by crop and variety, so check your seed packaging or supplier information. Accurate seed count ensures precise calculations for your desired plant population.
  2. Crop Seeds per Pound
    Corn 2400-4000
    Wheat 9000-18000
    Soybeans 2800-3500
    Rice 16000-20000
    Cotton 4000-5400
    Barley 13000-15000
    Sunflower 1500-6500
    Canola 80000-150000
    Peas 1600-5000
    Sorghum 9000-16000
    Tobacco 35000000
  3. Enter Desired Plants per Acre
    Enter the desired number of plants per acre for your chosen crop. This is the target number of plants you want to grow in one acre of land.
  4. Input Germination Rate
    Enter the expected germination percentage. This is the percentage of seeds that you expect to successfully germinate into plants (e.g., 87%).
  5. Account for Seeding Mortality
    Input the mortality percentage, which accounts for losses during the early stages of growth. This is typically a small percentage (e.g., 10%).
  6. Calculate Seeding Rate
    Click the "Calculate" button to calculate your seed rate in pounds per acre. The tool will compute the seed rate using the following formula:
    ((Desired Plants per Acre / Seeds per Pound) / Germination) * (1 + Mortality)
    This formula adjusts for germination and mortality to give you the the most accurate amount of seed to plant.

For the most accurate results: Ensure that the number of seeds per pound, germination rates, and mortality rates are based on recent data from your seed supplier or local conditions.


Sources

https://www.montana.edu/