No-Tillers Share Tips for Planter Optimization

Proper planter setup is crucial for maximizing crop potential, experts say.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 10:07am

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A minimalist studio still life photograph featuring a polished metal planter part, a handful of soil, and a few corn kernels arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background, conveying the importance of proper planter setup for no-till farming.Precise planter adjustments are essential for maximizing crop yields in no-till systems with heavy residue.Hershey Today

No-till farmers are emphasizing the importance of properly setting up their planters and drills to ensure optimal performance and crop yields. Experts recommend focusing on residue management, seed depth, and other key adjustments to get the most out of planting equipment, especially with the added challenges of heavy cover crop residues.

Why it matters

Planter setup is a critical step that can make or break a farming season, with experts estimating up to 90% of a crop's potential is determined at planting. As no-till and cover cropping practices become more widespread, producers need to adapt their equipment and techniques to handle the increased residue levels.

The details

No-till farmer Jim Hershey, who runs a 1,500-acre operation in Pennsylvania and Ohio, says managing heavy crop residues is a top priority when setting up his planter. Hershey uses a variety of attachments to handle the large amounts of cereal rye, corn stalks, and other cover crop material left on his fields. Proper seed depth is another key adjustment, as no-tillers need to ensure seeds are placed at the right depth to germinate and establish strong roots.

  • The National No-Tillage Conference was held last January.
  • Farmers are encouraged to evaluate and adjust their planters during the winter months before the upcoming planting season.

The players

Phil Needham

An expert who spoke at the National No-Tillage Conference about the importance of proper planter setup.

Jim Hershey

A no-till farmer in Pennsylvania and Ohio who runs a 1,500-acre operation and a custom planting business, dealing with heavy crop residues.

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What they’re saying

“Many no-tillers are tripped up from the start by not setting up their drill or planter right.”

— Phil Needham, Expert

“We have a lot of rye residue and with Bt corn hybrids, it's always a challenge because they don't want to break down.”

— Jim Hershey, No-Till Farmer

What’s next

Farmers are encouraged to spend time this winter evaluating and adjusting their planters to be ready for the upcoming planting season.

The takeaway

Proper planter setup is crucial for maximizing crop potential in no-till and cover cropping systems, as producers must adapt their equipment and techniques to handle increased levels of crop residue on their fields.