Agronomy Library > Event & Field Reports

Direct Seeding into Sod - Strategies for Success (FarmTech 2007)
Author: Rick Taillieu, Reduced Tillage LINKAGES
Date Created: January 24, 2007
Last Reviewed: January 24, 2007
Introduction The practice of direct seeding into sod, also referred to as sod seeding, is now being widely used as a method of removing forage, pasture and grass seed stands from production. The increase in the cost of diesel fuel over the last several years has coincided with a decrease in the cost of glyphosate products that has made the economics of direct seeding into sod far more attractive than conventional (tillage based) methods of removal. Direct seeding into sod further improves economics by decreasing labour and equipment requirements. Direct seeding into sod may save as many as 80 hours of labour compared to plowing, discing, cultivating and harrowing a quarter section in preparation for conventional seeding. Breaking sod is a series of high horsepower and high maintenance operations.  Many environmental and subsequent agronomic benefits are also gained versus conventional sod removal. These include increased moisture available at seeding time, eliminating virtually any risk from wind or water erosion and reducing soil carbon losses associated with intensive tillage practices.  Direct seeding into sod is a system that goes far beyond the act of actually seeding. This paper will outline some guidelines and strategies that are critical to successful sod seeding. Open the PDF for the complete paper