Seeding Rate

the number of seeds planted per hectare (ha) to ensure normal density of sprouts and a maximum yield. The seeding rate is expressed by the number of germinating seeds (millions) and the weight of the seeds (kg). It is determined by considering plant requirements for feeding space, the purpose of cultivation (grain, silage), soil fertility, climatic conditions, and other factors. The seeding rate may differ for the same crop. The seeding rate for crops raised for silage is higher than that for crops raised for grain. In northern regions the rate is higher than in the south. For example, a spring-wheat seeding rate of 6–7 million per ha is recommended in the northern regions of the USSR, and a rate of 3.5–5 million per ha is recommended in southern and eastern regions.

The recommended seeding rates are calculated for 100 percent seed purity, so in each particular case an appropriate correction must be made. For example, if the recommended rate is 4 million seeds per ha and the seeds at a particular farm have a purity of 94 percent, the seeding rate for them will be

To calculate the seeding rate by weight in kg, the numerical seeding rate is multiplied by the weight of 1,000 seeds in g. Thus, if 1,000 seeds weigh 40 g, the seeding rate in the specific case mentioned above will be 4.4 million X 40, which equals 176 kg.