Choosing the Right Seed Drill (Part 2): Single vs Double Disc

Single Disc Seed Drills:

Single disc openers excel in heavier soils by creating a precise seed furrow, acting like a knife to achieve accurate seed placement. Their aggressive nature helps crush clods for better moisture retention and pushes aside stones, making them ideal for conditions with high residue and straw, which they effectively cut to avoid hairpinning and reduce disease risk.

Double Disc Seed Drllls:

Double disc openers, with their two angled discs and centrally placed seed tube, are better suited for light soils and can plant at higher speeds in well-prepared ground. They are often considered more precise, especially for shallow seeding, although they are less effective at handling straw and residue without hairpinning issues​.

Further Reading

• Choosing the Right Seed Drill: Disc vs Tyne
• What is No-till farming?
• Planters and their components: types, attributes, functional requirements, classification and description, Australian Goverment ACIAR, University of QLD, 07 March 2006