To assess the differences between disc and tyne seeding systems in commercial practice.

• Both the grazed disc and grazed tyne treatments yield the same.
• In contrast to one of the initial years where the tyne treatments saw greater Patterson’s Curse density, there have not been any further or continual patterns of weeds within the site.
• Disc seeder saw limitations in ungrazed stubble, when stubble lodged along with soft wet soil. Solutions will include reducing stubble harvest height, to lower risk of post-harvest lodging, however even spread across header width will be essential.
• Addition of “residue managers” to brush material aside from path of disc openers would reduce level of poor establishment and ensure discs continue to roll and cut.
• Poor establishment means that it is behind on tiller density and ultimately head density. This is the basis of building yield potential and water use efficiency. Focus on maximum and consistent establishment to efficiently use nutrient and moisture resources.
• Tyne seeder is more “forgiving” in troublesome conditions, as there are fewer variables to manage.
• To date, total yields are virtually level, signifying there is no silver bullet to seeding machine or stubble management.
• To manage the variables which pose risk to any such system will be the key to limit downfalls (as seen this year with the ungrazed disc) and maximise profitability. This is the silver bullet!