How to Successfully Plant Sunflowers Using a Corn Planter

Sunflowers are a classic summertime bloom that can add cheer and beauty to any landscape If you want to plant a large patch or field of sunflowers, using a corn planter can save time and labor compared to traditional planting methods But is it possible to plant sunflowers with a corn planter?

The short answer is yes – with a few modifications and adjustments, a corn planter can successfully be used to sow sunflower seeds In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know to plant sunflowers efficiently using a corn planter

Overview of Corn Planters

First let’s look briefly at what corn planters are and how they work. Corn planters are agricultural implements designed specifically for planting corn seeds quickly and efficiently in large fields.

Key features include:

• Row units to accurately space and plant seeds
• Adjustable depth control to plant at optimal depth
• Seed plates with slots sized for corn kernels
• Fertilizer attachments to apply as seeds are planted
• Row markers to guide drivers in straight lines

By precisely planting corn seeds at the proper spacing and depth, corn planters help ensure uniform emergence and good yields. Most are designed as pull-type implements to be towed behind a tractor.

Can a Corn Planter Work for Sunflowers?

The operating principles of a corn planter are equally applicable to planting sunflower seeds. But there are a few adjustments needed to accommodate the different seed size and spacing requirements.

The good news is sunflower seeds are similar in shape and only slightly larger than corn seeds. With the right attachments and settings, corn planters can successfully handle sunflowers.

Here are some tips to modify a corn planter for sunflowers:

• Use sunflower seed disks designed for the make and model instead of corn disks
• Adjust seed metering mechanisms for larger sunflower seeds
• Open seed plates more to correctly space sunflower seeds
• Set depth adjusters for the shallower 1-2” sunflower planting depth
• Reduce seed population rate compared to corn

As long as the appropriate adjustments are made, a corn planter can work very well for planting sunflowers.

Benefits of Using a Corn Planter for Sunflowers

Planting sunflowers with a corn planter offers many advantages:

• Saves time and money – Eliminates purchasing a separate specialty sunflower planter.

• Planting accuracy – Corn planters excel at precise seed spacing and depth.

• Efficient planting – Quickly covers large areas compared to hand planting.

• Reduced waste – Precise planting means less wasted seeds.

• Uniform rows – Straight, consistent rows make caring for plants easier.

• Less seed damage – Singular seed drop is gentler than bulk mechanical planting.

• Earlier planting – Tow-behind models can access wet fields easier than tractor-mounted drills.

For large sunflower patches or agricultural fields, a corn planter is an excellent time and labor-saving tool.

Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Sunflowers with a Corn Planter

If you’re ready to use your corn planter to plant sunflowers, follow these steps for success:

Gather Supplies

• Sunflower planter plates or seed disks designed for your model planter
• Sunflower seeds – select a recommended variety for your region
• Fertilizer and attachments (optional)
• GPS guidance system (optional)

Inspect and Adjust the Planter

• Check overall operation and lubricate as needed
• Install sunflower planter plates in each row unit
• Adjust seed meters for proper sunflower seed rate
• Set planting depth for 1-2 inch depth
• Clear any leftover debris from corn planting

Prepare the Planting Area

• Work the soil 4-6 inches deep and break up any clumps
• Apply any pre-plant fertilizer and nutrients
• Mark planting rows with stakes or flags

Planting Time

• Attach planter and engage drive mechanism
• Partially fill seed boxes with sunflower seeds
• Lower planter to proper depth setting
• Maintain steady ground speed of 4-6 mph
• Periodically check seed drop rate and replenish seed boxes
• Use GPS guidance to maintain precise rows (optional)

Finish Up

• Inspect stand quality and plant again if less than 75%
• Consider a starter fertilizer watered in around new plants
• Watch for any signs of pests or diseases
• Provide irrigation if rainfall is lacking after planting

Tips for Success Planting Sunflowers with a Corn Planter

Follow these tips to ensure great results planting sunflowers with a corn planter:

• Always use sunflower planter plates – corn plates won’t work well.

• Take time to properly adjust seed rate and planting depth.

• Maintain steady speed – excessive acceleration or deceleration can disrupt seed spacing.

• Check seed drop periodically to make sure plates aren’t jamming.

• Test equipment on a small area before planting large fields.

• Ensure soil moisture is adequate to aid germination, supplementing with irrigation if needed.

Enjoy Field-Planting Sunflowers with Ease

A corn planter can be an excellent tool for sowing success when planting large areas of sunflowers. With a few simple equipment adjustments and proper planting technique, you can save significant time and effort. The precision planting ensures a uniform crop that will burst into full sunny bloom.