Combining a Maschio rotavator and Opico air seeder, the Maschio Rota-seeder enables one-pass seeding into burnt off leys or stubbles on land that is too shallow or stony for ploughing.
Rotavators are available in working widths from 2.10m to 3.10m, with power requirements from 60 to 250hp. As well as the standard blades, two alternative options are recommended – the Cobra rotor with its high number of vertical blades for hard dry conditions; and for stony soils, the Condor rotor with its aggressive steel spikes with wide staggered placement.
Opico reckons the electronic air seeder with its radar speed sensor ensures accurate even distribution of seed onto the surface. Features also include easy electronic calibration, variable rate sowing, interchangeable rollers which allow small seed to be sown accurately, and the ability to broadcast or band sow. A rear packer roller aids seed-to-soil contact and further break down clods, leaving the land ready for rolling.
As well as establishing new grass into burnt-off leys or stubbles, the machine can also be used to establish catch crops and game cover, and to sow crops into maize stubbles to prevent winter run-off.
A Rota-seeder created from a Maschio 2.80m wide SC280 rotavator, fitted with Condor blades, packer roller, and an electronic Opico air seeder retails at £24,388+VAT. A machine will be on display at the UK Grassland event on May 10 and at the Welsh Grassland event on May 16.
