Plan We had purchased the seed in advance but other priorities prevented us from attempting to spread the seed ourselves on the smoot pasture using either the blower, the small pull spreader or large tractor. We decided against the tractor in keeping with our desire to minimize the dependence on large farm equipment. We were able to get our drone partner to meet a short schedule ahead of a few days of rain in the forecast. Conditions and Measurements
Seed: Iron and Clay Cowpeas
Quantity: 1000 lbs.
Acreage: 20 acres of smooth pasture
Application rate: 50 lbs per acre
Application method: Drone
Cost: Drone Service: $400 Seed Cost: 20 bags at $45.80 per bag. $916
Labor or contractor time: 2 hours
Rainfall following application:
Observations
Seed spread appeared to be even. Process is very efficient and can be done without impacting your time with a trusted drone service partner.
Actions Taken
Spread seed in time for a few days of rain.
Next Step
Seed assessment in coming days and weeks. Complete the seeding source record and compare establishment with the stump-retained cowpea application.