Gear Up for Success: DONMARIO’s Guide to Equipment Prep

At DONMARIO, we know that higher yields start with better genetics—but they’re realized with precision planting. Every pass in the field is an opportunity to maximize the potential of our elite soybean varieties. As the planting season approaches, ensuring your equipment is properly calibrated and optimized is a crucial step in setting up your soybeans for success.

Here’s your soybean planting equipment prep checklist to help you get the most out of every seed in your DONMARIO bag.

1. Fine-Tune Your Planter for Maximum Yield Potential

Even the best genetics need precise seed placement for optimal emergence and stand establishment. Before heading to the field, inspect and adjust your planter:

Row units – Replace worn bushings, bearings, and parallel arms to maintain consistent planting depth and spacing.
Disc openers – Worn or misaligned openers can lead to uneven emergence. Ensure they are sharp and within the recommended diameter.
Seed meters – DONMARIO soybeans are bred for uniformity, but accurate seed singulation is key to unlocking their full potential. Calibrate meters to achieve optimal seed population.
Depth and closing wheels – Proper depth control (1 to 1.5 inches) ensures strong early-season growth. Make sure closing wheels provide firm seed-to-soil contact without excessive compaction.

2. Optimize Precision Ag Tools to Support High-Yield Soybeans

DONMARIO soybean varieties undergo rigorous testing across 140+ research locations to ensure they perform in diverse environments. To match that precision in your own operation, optimize your planting technology:

Update GPS and auto-steer systems – Accurate row spacing minimizes skips and competition, ensuring uniform plant development.
Calibrate downforce systems – Adjusting for soil conditions prevents sidewall compaction and promotes strong root growth.
Test variable-rate seeding plans – If using variable-rate technology, refine prescriptions based on soil data to maximize yield potential in every acre.

3. Adjust for Ideal Seed Placement Based on Your Field Conditions

Soybean yield potential is influenced by seed depth, spacing, and population—all of which are impacted by equipment setup.

Recommended depth: 1 to 1.5 inches, ensuring adequate moisture for germination.
Target population: 120,000 to 160,000 plants per acre, depending on row width and environmental conditions.
Check uniformity: Uneven emergence can lead to yield penalties. Conduct field checks to ensure seeds are placed at the correct depth across all rows.

4. Inspect & Maintain Tractors & Tillage Equipment

Even the most advanced planters rely on well-maintained tractors and support equipment. Before planting begins:

Inspect hydraulic systems for leaks or wear.
Check tire pressure and inflation to improve traction and reduce compaction.
Adjust row cleaners and coulters to clear residue without disturbing planting depth.

5. Conduct a Test Run to Ensure Peak Performance

Before planting begins in full force, a test pass in the field can catch small issues before they become yield-limiting problems.

Test seed drop consistency by running a small batch of seed through the planter.
Verify depth and spacing by checking emergence in test rows and making final adjustments as needed.
Monitor early stand counts to ensure a strong, uniform start to the season.

The DONMARIO Advantage: Combining Genetics with Agronomic Excellence

At DONMARIO, we are committed to providing U.S. farmers with NEW, exclusive soybean genetics bred for higher yield potential. But great genetics require great management. That’s why we go beyond offering top-performing varieties—we provide the agronomic expertise farmers need to maximize their return on investment.

By taking the time to fine-tune your planting equipment now, you’re setting up your DONMARIO soybeans for strong emergence, uniform stands, and higher yields this fall.

For more agronomic insights and to explore our latest soybean varieties, visit DONMARIOseeds.com.