Planter enhancements aim to improve seed placement and nutrient delivery
John Deere announced a series of planter technology updates aimed at improving seed placement, nutrient application and planting efficiency for the 2027 model year.
The enhancements focus on key agronomic factors such as uniform emergence, seed spacing, population accuracy and nutrient availability. Updates span fertilizer application systems, furrow management tools and planting logistics features within the John Deere Operations Center.
A new dual-product fertilizer system will be available on select 2027 planters, allowing operators to apply nutrients both in-furrow and alongside the row. The system combines Deere’s ExactShot in-furrow application technology with ExactRate for off-row fertilizer placement.
ExactShot delivers nutrients directly to the seed zone, with the company stating it can reduce in-furrow nutrient use by up to 66%. ExactRate applies fertilizer to the side of the row to support crop development later in the growing season.
The system includes dual liquid tanks with level sensors, stainless-steel fertilizer lines and an updated agitation system designed to maintain consistent product mixtures. An auxiliary tank option allows application of micronutrients, biologicals, fungicides and insecticides.
Operators can monitor both fertilizer products through a single display in the cab and adjust application settings, including dose length. The system will be factory-installed on model year 2027 1775NT 16/24R and DB60 24R planters.
Moline, Illinois-based John Deere also introduced updates aimed at improving furrow consistency. ExactDepth, an electric depth control system, allows in-cab adjustment of planting depth and row-by-row calibration. The system can be integrated with prescription-based planting to adjust depth across field zones.
FurrowVision, a camera-based system, provides real-time views of furrow conditions, including residue levels and depth measurements. The system is designed to help operators identify issues that may affect seed placement and emergence.
Downforce Automation, integrated with FurrowVision, adjusts downforce based on soil conditions, furrow quality and ground contact. The system is intended to help maintain consistent seed depth across varying field conditions.
Additional updates include a logistics tool within the John Deere Operations Center for users with a G5 Advanced license. The feature provides real-time information on equipment location, work status and product levels, allowing coordination between operators and support equipment during planting.
Company representatives said the updates are intended to help farmers manage tighter planting windows and higher input costs by improving operational efficiency and crop establishment.
For more information, see a dealer or visit www.deere.com.