The Seed Spider High-Density Seeding System, developed by Seed Spider and distributed by companies like Sutton Agricultural Enterprises, Inc., represents a significant advancement in agricultural technology. Introduced in 1999, it quickly established itself as a revolutionary electronic seed metering unit, renowned for its accuracy and reliability in planting high-density crops such as spring mix and spinach.
At its core, the system is engineered to provide unparalleled precision in seed placement, a critical factor for optimizing crop stands and maximizing yields in commercial vegetable growing. This innovative solution integrates advanced electronic controls with a user-friendly digital controller mobile app, offering growers seamless operational control and real-time insights into their planting activities.
The Seed Spider system is distinguished by its patented rotating sponge pads, which gently separate and meter seeds without causing damage, a crucial advantage when handling delicate and expensive high-density crop seeds. Its robust design and comprehensive feature set make it a preferred choice for farmers seeking to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve the overall productivity of their seeding operations.
Key Features
The Seed Spider Metering System sets a global benchmark as the world's first electronic seed metering system, first introduced in 1999. It operates via a 12-volt motor that drives a sponge rotor within a vertical cylindrical metering plate. This plate's internal wall features multiple channels, along which seeds are gently separated by the rotating sponge and precisely delivered to individual outlets. This electronically controlled process ensures accurate metering without causing any damage to the seeds, accommodating a vast range of seed types from raw carrot to pea-sized seeds, including raw, coated, and pelleted varieties.
Further enhancing its capabilities is the Seed Spider Encoder Control System, which includes a sophisticated digital controller mobile app. This app transforms the user experience by offering seamless control, comprehensive data tracking, and real-time fault detection. Growers can easily compare current planting metrics with historical data, allowing for informed decisions and continuous optimization of their seeding strategies. The system also boasts an integrated GPS receiver within the encoder motor driver, providing precise speed sensing to maintain consistent seeding rates regardless of terrain or tractor speed, and utilizing Bluetooth for wireless communication between components.
The modular design of the Seed Spider system is a significant advantage, allowing for scalability from single-row applications up to 148 rows, depending on specific operational requirements. This flexibility is complemented by quick-release handles, enabling seed changes in under 60 seconds per metering unit, thereby minimizing downtime and maximizing field efficiency. The clear seed hoppers also provide easy visibility of seed levels from the tractor seat, adding to operational convenience.
Moreover, the system is built with high-quality stainless steel and durable plastic components, ensuring longevity and reliability in demanding agricultural environments. Its unique cast stainless steel soil openers are engineered to form a fine 'V' shaped slot, preventing soil from falling onto neighboring rows and guaranteeing an even seeding depth. This attention to detail in design contributes to superior seedbed preparation and optimal germination conditions.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Seed Count Range | 20,000 to 800,000 seeds per pound |
| Metering System | Electronic with patented rotating sponge pads |
| Outlets per Unit | Up to six; interchangeable plates for 1-6 outlets |
| Standard Seed Hopper Capacity | 1.8 gallons (7 liters) |
| Large Seed Hopper Capacity | 13.2 gallons (50 liters) |
| Control System | Seed Spider Encoder Control System |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth module for wireless communication |
| GPS | Integrated GPS receiver for speed sensing |
| Construction | High-quality stainless steel and durable plastic components |
| Roller Seeder Sowing Depth Adjustment | 0-40mm (0-1.6 inches) |
| Sled Seeder Sowing Depth Adjustment | 0-50mm (0-2 inches) |
| Roller Seeder Sowing Widths | 1000mm (40 inches), 1250mm (50 inches), 1550mm (61 inches), 1850mm (73 inches) |
| Sled Seeder Sowing Widths | 1250mm (50 inches), 1550mm (61 inches), 1750mm (69 inches) |
| Work Rate (Logic Seed Spider LSS) | Up to 1 Ha/hr |
| Power Source | 12-volt DC supply |
Use Cases & Applications
The Seed Spider system is highly versatile and finds extensive application across various agricultural settings, particularly where precision and high-density planting are critical. It is a leading solution for planting high-density crops such as spring mix, spinach, baby carrots, and other baby leaf salad/vegetables.
Commercial vegetable growers widely adopt the Seed Spider for its ability to accurately meter a wide range of seed types, including raw, coated, and pelleted varieties, ensuring optimal crop stands.
Many farmers utilize Seed Spider units as replacements for existing Planet Jr. units on their planters, upgrading their equipment to achieve superior accuracy and reliability.
The self-propelled models are particularly suited for glasshouse applications, offering controlled and precise seeding in enclosed environments.
Beyond traditional planting, the system can also be employed for specialized tasks such as stitching species into existing sward, for example, clover for improved grazing, or for patching worn areas in fields, demonstrating its adaptability for diverse agronomic needs.
Strengths & Weaknesses
| Strengths ✅ | Weaknesses ⚠️ |
|---|---|
| Unparalleled Accuracy & Reliability: World's first electronic seed metering system with patented rotating sponge pads ensures significantly more accurate seed placement across a wide range of seed types than conventional seeders. | Initial Investment: While offering long-term benefits, the starting price of approximately $8,421 for a Roller Seeder may represent a significant upfront investment for some operations. |
| Gentle Seed Handling: Electronically controlled metering prevents damage to delicate seeds, preserving viability and ensuring optimal germination. | Requires 12-volt DC Power: The system relies on a 12-volt DC power supply, typically from a tractor battery, which needs to be available and adequately maintained. |
| Advanced Digital Control: The Seed Spider Encoder Control System, enhanced with a digital controller mobile app, provides seamless control, real-time data tracking, fault detection, and historical data comparison. | Specific Sowing Widths: While row spacing is infinitely adjustable, the standard sowing widths for Roller and Sled Seeder models are fixed, requiring selection based on specific operational needs. |
| Broad Seed Compatibility: Capable of accurately metering seeds from 20,000 to 800,000 seeds per pound, including raw carrot, lettuce, and pea-sized seeds, as well as raw, coated, and pelleted varieties. | |
| Modular & Scalable Design: The system's modularity allows for configurations from 1 to 148 rows, with quick-release handles enabling seed changes in under 60 seconds per metering unit. | |
| Integrated GPS for Precision: An integrated GPS receiver in the encoder motor driver provides precise speed sensing, crucial for maintaining consistent seeding rates in varying field conditions. |
Benefits for Farmers
Farmers adopting the Seed Spider system can expect a range of significant business benefits. The unparalleled precision in seeding directly translates to reduced seed wastage, as fewer seeds are lost due to inaccurate placement. This efficiency leads to optimized crop stands, ensuring uniform plant growth and ultimately higher yields, with some users reporting increases of 15% or more.
The system's reliability and ease of use, coupled with quick seed change capabilities, minimize operational downtime during critical planting windows, boosting overall productivity. The digital controller mobile app and integrated GPS provide real-time data and control, empowering farmers to make data-driven decisions that enhance efficiency and resource management. By ensuring gentle seed handling, the Seed Spider preserves seed viability, contributing to healthier crops and a more sustainable farming practice.
Integration & Compatibility
The Seed Spider system is designed for seamless integration into existing farm operations. Its electronic seed metering units can often replace older, less precise units on various planters, including those previously fitted with Planet Jr. units. The Encoder Control System facilitates this integration through its Bluetooth module, enabling wireless communication between the controller and the motor drivers, simplifying wiring and setup.
Furthermore, the integrated GPS receiver in the encoder motor driver allows the system to sense and compensate for tractor speed, ensuring a consistent seeding rate across the field. This capability makes it compatible with modern precision agriculture practices, providing valuable data for mapping and analysis, and helping farmers optimize their inputs and outputs within their broader farm management systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How does this product work? | The Seed Spider Metering System utilizes a 12-volt motor to drive a sponge rotor within a vertical cylindrical metering plate. This plate's internal channels, combined with the rotating sponge, gently separate and deliver seeds to individual outlets with electronic precision, ensuring accurate and damage-free metering. |
| What is the typical ROI? | The Seed Spider system significantly enhances planting accuracy and efficiency, leading to reduced seed wastage, optimized crop stands, and potentially higher yields, with some growers reporting an increase of 15% plus. Its reliability and ease of use minimize operational downtime and labor costs, contributing to a strong return on investment through improved productivity and resource management. |
| What setup/installation is required? | The system is designed for straightforward integration, often replacing existing units like Planet Jr. planters. Its modular nature allows for scalable row configurations. Initial setup involves mounting the metering units, connecting the 12-volt DC power supply, and configuring the Encoder Control System, which is facilitated by wireless Bluetooth connectivity. |
| What maintenance is needed? | Maintenance primarily involves routine cleaning of the metering units and ensuring the sponge rotors are free from debris to maintain optimal seed flow. The robust construction with stainless steel and durable plastic components is designed for longevity and minimal upkeep. Regular checks of the electrical connections are also recommended. |
| Is training required to use this? | The Seed Spider system is designed for simple operation, not requiring highly skilled operators. Its user-friendly Encoder Control System and digital mobile app interface make it intuitive to learn. Basic training on calibration, seed changes, and app navigation would enable efficient operation. |
| What systems does it integrate with? | The Seed Spider Encoder Control System features Bluetooth for wireless communication with motor drivers and an integrated GPS receiver for speed sensing. This allows for seamless integration into existing tractor setups and provides data for precision agriculture applications, enhancing its compatibility with modern farming practices. |
| Can it handle different seed sizes? | Yes, the Seed Spider is highly versatile, capable of accurately metering a wide range of seed types and sizes. It can handle seeds from very small, like raw carrot or lettuce (20,000 seeds per pound), up to larger pea-sized seeds (800,000 seeds per pound), including raw, coated, and pelleted varieties. |
| How quickly can seeds be changed? | The system is designed for rapid seed changes, featuring quick-release handles. This allows for efficient seed variety changes in less than 60 seconds per metering system, significantly reducing downtime during planting operations. |
Pricing & Availability
Indicative price: $8,421 USD (for Seed Spider Roller Seeder from Tilmor). The final pricing can vary based on the specific configuration, number of metering units, chosen implements (e.g., Roller Seeder or Sled Seeder), and regional distribution. Used precision sowing machines have been listed for 1000 EUR and 2000 EUR at auctions, indicating a range of options depending on condition and model. For a precise quote tailored to your specific agricultural needs and current availability, please contact us via the Make inquiry button on this page.
Support & Training
Seed Spider and its distributors, such as Sutton Agricultural Enterprises, Inc., offer comprehensive support for the Seed Spider High-Density Seeding System. This includes technical assistance, spare parts, and guidance on optimal operation. The system's design prioritizes ease of use, minimizing the need for extensive training; however, basic operational guidance is available to ensure growers can fully leverage the system's advanced capabilities for precision planting.
