Potato planting, precise and revolutionised in 7 steps

Integrating every aspect of the planting process

Potato planting consists of a series of interconnected and equally important phases. The decisions and actions taken at every stage can have a significant impact on quality and yield, requiring consistent precision. Using modern agricultural technology can be invaluable in achieving the required precision, while streamlining operations and scaling efficiencies.

GRIMME offers a state-of-the-art potato planter that combines the essential planting steps into a single pass for optimal precision, control and efficiency.

The PRIOS 440 offers much more than placing tubers in the furrow. It integrates all seven vital phases of potato planting in a synchronised manner, enabling farmers to capitalise on opportunities when the groundwork for the season’s crop is laid and the weather is favourable.

1. Soil cultivation

The PRIOS 440’s innovative gooseneck drawbar makes it possible to seamlessly combine active and passive soil cultivation tools. The drawbar can adjust in 100 mm increments, providing flexibility for finetuning and improving manoeuvrability. Soil preparation depth is controlled independently from the planter, so the set working depth stays consistent, creating a uniform soil surface that is ideal for planting. (See article here)

2. Under-root fertilisation

Precise fertilisation at a consistent application depth is effortless with the PRIOS 440. The integrated fertiliser box has a 1 700-litre capacity, which means you can cover more ground without the need to refill frequently. The system ensures that the fertiliser is placed exactly where it’s needed – beside the tuber – to optimise nutrient availability in the root zone without direct tuber contact. 

3. Liquid chemicals application

A barrel system for liquid seed dressings or furrow treatments can be fitted, with all functions managed centrally through ISOBUS for streamlined operating. The robust 800-litre spray tank, supported by a 95-litre rinse water tank and an 18-litre hand wash tank, ensures clean and safe application. Switching between applications is quick and tool-free, thanks to the Camlock connection points.

4. Microgranule application

The microgranule spreader system covers an exceptionally wide application range of 3 to 100 kg/ha. This system is fully integrated with the GRIMME user interface, speed-dependent and compatible with variable rate control (VRC).

5. Planting

The PRIOS 440 excels at maintaining consistent planting depth and providing reliable tuber guidance. Depth consistency is achieved through either mechanically controlled feeler wheels or a hydraulic automatic depth control system. Maintenance is easy and the planting elements and belts can be adjusted without tools.

6. Ridge shaping

The ridge shaping unit guarantees consistent tuber coverage and ridge profiles. The hydraulic pressure control system adjusts automatically in response to changing soil and weather conditions, ensuring a stable and reproducible ridge shape, even on uneven terrain. A range of tools provides flexibility to tailor the ridge structure, with convenient tool-free adjustments in the field.

7. Erosion protection

For farmers battling soil erosion, particularly on slopes, the PRIOS 440’s optional TerraProtect system is a gamechanger. By constructing dykes at specified intervals, it slows down surface water runoff, minimises erosion risks and improves water absorption. The TerraProtect PRO automatically adjusts dyke frequency to planting speed for consistent spacing and makes it possible to switch off individual rows.

Farmers’ experiences speak volumes

The feedback from GRIMME clients who have used the PRIOS 440 is testament to the machine’s indispensability in the planting process. Johan Smit from HP Smit Boerdery in the Sandveld had the following to say: “What works exceptionally well [with the PRIOS 440] is that the tractor is connected to the machine via ISOBUS and communicates with it through that connection, letting it plant in a straight line, even on extreme slopes. This technology ensures that our planters can plant at an even depth and spacing, giving each potato the optimal opportunity to grow."