Using a drum seeder to sow pre-germinated seed
1. Puddle the land and level thoroughly.
![factsheet-using a drum seeder 1](/images/stories/factsheet-using_a_drum_seeder_1.png)
2. Drain out excess water before sowing, but do not let the soil surface become dry.
![using a drum seeder 2](/images/stories/factsheet-using_a_drum_seeder_2.png)
3. Pre-germinate the rice seeds - do not let shoots become too long. Growth for 24 h is usually sufficient.
![using a drum seeder 3](/images/stories/factsheet-using_a_drum_seeder_3.png)
4. Air-dry the sprouted seeds in the shade for about 10-15 minutes before sowing to facilitate singling/separation of seeds.
![using a drum seeder 4](/images/stories/factsheet-using_a_drum_seeder_4.png)
5. Sow the seeds with drum seeder:
- Do not fill drums more than about 2/3 full.
- Walk at steady speed.
![using a drum seeder 5](/images/stories/factsheet-using_a_drum_seeder_5.png)
6. Increase the depth of water gradually as the seedlings grow but do not completely submerge seedlings.
![using a drum seeder 6](/images/stories/factsheet-using_a_drum_seeder_6.png)
7. Do not irrigate for 2-3 days after sowing to allow roots to anchor.
Take care during the wet season as rainfall immediately after seeding may wash away the newly sown seeds.
![using a drum seeder 7](/images/stories/factsheet-using_a_drum_seeder_7.png)
8. Floodwater can rise as the seedlings grow to give better control of weeds.
![factsheet-using a drum seeder 8](/images/stories/factsheet-using_a_drum_seeder_8.png)