A modified sickle bar mower increased flexibility for harvesting native plant seeds

Abstract

For native plant producers, many challenges of seed collection stem from differences in plant form and physiology, diverse equipment needs, multiple harvest requirements, and hand-collection constraints. One of the major problems facing native seed producers is the inability to effectively manage the range of heights of various crops with standard mechanical equipment. To solve this problem, the Cardno JFNew Native Plant Nursery has developed an adjustable height harvester using a modified skid steer sickle bar mower and an industrial-size leaf vacuum. This machine, operated by a single person, can then be used to rapidly harvest seeds from a variety of plant types.