PackForge Manual Rice Transplanter, 2 Rows

What is a manual rice transplanter?

Mats of seedlings grown on a tray or bed sit on a sloping holder on the machine. Each time the operator works the handle, picking fingers take a few seedlings from the lower edge of the mat and set them into the mud, about 20 to 40 mm deep. Two fingers work side by side, giving rows 250 mm apart. The operator then draws the machine on to the next hill.

It helps small paddy growers who cannot find enough labour at transplanting time and want straight rows for easier weeding later. At 18 to 22 kg it can be lifted over bunds by one person. Results depend on mat-type nursery seedlings and a well-puddled, level field holding the right water depth. Seedlings pulled loose from an ordinary nursery bed will not feed through it properly.

Planting a paddy plot with the 2-row transplanter – 4 steps

1. 1
   Prepare the fieldPuddle and level the plot thoroughly, then let it settle to a thin, even layer of standing water.
2. 2
   Load the matsPlace the tray-grown seedling mats on the machine's holder, keeping them flat, whole and moist.
3. 3
   Set planting depthAdjust the fingers to set seedlings about 20 to 40 mm deep, checking the first few hills by hand.
4. 4
   Pull along the rowWork the handle and draw the machine back in a straight line while a helper brings fresh mats.

• 2 rows per pass
• 250 mm row spacing
• 20 to 40 mm depth
• Hand operated
• No fuel or power
• 18 to 22 kg