Alberta Seedling Rates Calculator

Seeding Rate Formula:

\[ \text{Seeding Rate (kg/ha)} = \frac{\text{Target Plant Population (plants/m²)} \times \text{TKW (g)}}{\frac{\text{Germination \%}}{100} \times \frac{\text{Emergence \%}}{100}} \]

Target Plant Population:

plants/m²

TKW:

Germination:

Emergence:

Seeding Rate:

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is the Seeding Rate Calculation?

The seeding rate calculation determines the optimal amount of seed (in kg per hectare) needed to achieve a target plant population, taking into account seed quality (germination percentage) and field conditions (emergence percentage).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the seeding rate formula:

\[ \text{Seeding Rate (kg/ha)} = \frac{\text{Target Plant Population (plants/m²)} \times \text{TKW (g)}}{\frac{\text{Germination \%}}{100} \times \frac{\text{Emergence \%}}{100}} \]

Where:

Target Plant Population — Desired number of plants per square meter
TKW — Thousand Kernel Weight (weight of 1000 seeds in grams)
Germination % — Percentage of seeds that germinate under ideal conditions
Emergence % — Percentage of germinated seeds that successfully emerge in field conditions

Explanation: The formula adjusts for seed viability and field establishment rates to ensure the correct amount of seed is planted to achieve the target population.

3. Importance of Seeding Rate Calculation

Details: Proper seeding rate calculation is crucial for optimizing crop yield, minimizing seed waste, ensuring proper plant spacing, and maximizing economic returns in agricultural production.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter target plant population in plants/m², TKW in grams, and germination/emergence percentages. All values must be positive numbers with germination and emergence between 0-100%.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is TKW and how is it measured?
A: TKW (Thousand Kernel Weight) is the weight of 1000 seeds measured in grams. It's determined by counting and weighing a representative sample of seeds.

Q2: How do germination and emergence percentages differ?
A: Germination percentage measures seed viability under ideal lab conditions, while emergence percentage reflects actual field establishment considering soil conditions, planting depth, and environmental factors.

Q3: What are typical target plant populations for common crops?
A: Target populations vary by crop type, variety, and growing region. Common ranges: wheat 200-350 plants/m², canola 80-150 plants/m², barley 250-350 plants/m².

Q4: Why is accurate seeding rate important?
A: Proper seeding rates optimize yield potential, reduce competition between plants, minimize seed costs, and help achieve uniform crop stands.

Q5: Should seeding rates be adjusted for different soil types?
A: Yes, emergence percentages often vary by soil type, moisture conditions, and planting equipment, so rates may need adjustment based on field-specific conditions.