Seeding rate determines the plant stand density per hectare, ensuring a balance between efficient use of area and the prevention of excessive intraspecific competition. For an agronomist, this parameter is a tool for managing a variety's biological potential, allowing the plant to form an optimal yield structure.
The choice of rate depends on the biological characteristics of the variety, such as tillering or branching type, plasticity, and maturity group. Varieties with high productive tillering require different rates than those with low tillering, and large-seeded varieties need an increased weight-based rate (kg/ha) to achieve the target plant density.
The assessment of the correct seeding rate is conducted taking into account the variety's resistance to lodging and the quality of the final product. Excessive density can lead to stem elongation and weakening of the root system, and for certain crops, such as confectionery sunflower, negatively affect the size of the marketable grain fractions.