The growing popularity of the Seed Spider Planter is lead by its accuracy, reliability, and value. Growers not yet ready for an all new planter commonly use Seed Spider units as replacements for Planet Jr. units on their existing planters.

Seed Spider can accurately plant crops with seed counts from 20,000 seeds per pound, to 800,000 seeds per pound, making it ideal for planting high density crops like spring mix and spinach.

Patented rotating sponge pads gently separate and meter seed without damaging it. Seed rate is controlled by a variable speed electric motor, making adjustments simple. Metering units are available with up to six outlets, and feature quick-release handles for quick and efficient seed changes.

The Seed Spider Metering System is the world's first electronic seed metering system. It's a revolutionary, patented device that accurately meters seed from a bulk hopper to multiple outlets, and is noticeably more accurate over a wider range of seed types than virtually any other seed planter. It's best suited to seeds ranging in size from 20,000 to 800,000 seeds per pound (for example, raw carrot or lettuce seed up to seed the size of a pea).

How does it work?

A 12 volt motor drives a sponge rotor within a vertical cylindrical metering plate. This metering plate has multiple channels in its internal wall, along which seeds are gently separated by the rotating sponge and carried to individual outlets.

The gentle nature of the sponge ensures seeds are never damaged, and a wide range of seeds can be accurately metered; raw and coated/pelleted.

The speed of the drive motor is controlled electronically.

Sponge rotor
The unique patented rotating sponge pad gently separates and meters the seed without damaging it.

Seed hopper
The 1.8 gallon seed hopper is ideal for most seeding applications and is transparent for convenient seed level monitoring. The seed hoppers have a quick release fitting to allow them to be lifted off for quick and easy emptying.

High quality
Manufactured to uncompromising standards, Seed Spider Metering Systems are constructed from stainless steel and plastic to eliminate corrosion and ensure long term reliability.

The Seed Spider Encoder Control System is radically different than the original EMF system (EMF system is obsolete; repair parts are mostly unavailable), and provides many advantages for the commercial planting operation. This electronic metering system is extremely reliable and is ideal for most planting situations. Operating Seed Spider does not require high skill levels as compared with competing machines. Seeding rates can be changed with the push of a button.

The encoder controller mounts in the tractor cab and provides a user friendly interface for the system. Controller and motor drivers require connection to a 12V power source, but no other connection is necessary for the controller. Encoder motor drivers mount on the planter for convenient connection to the metering units. This new system is ideal for Sutton Ag's stacker bar as each bed has its own dedicated encoder motor driver.

Encoder system features:

• Encoder controller communicates wirelessly with encoder motor drivers
• Communication via Bluetooth module
• Encoder motor driver contains an internal GPS receiver
• Fewer wires and connections
• Motor RPM monitoring with automatic synchronization
• Warning system alerts when motors are not functioning correctly

The new sponge features a sloped plastic top which helps ease seed through the system with less resistance. According to growers already taking advantage of the redesigned system, the new sponges last longer than EMF-system sponges, meaning more acres can be planted before replacement sponges are needed.

The improved sponge and hub are standard on all new Seed Spider units, but to utilize the new sponge with older units, a simple upgrade to the new drive hub is required.

Sponge pads & hub/spindle can now be purchased in our online store.