Perceptions of early Greenseeder^® Hand Planter users: implications for global diffusion

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By 2025, the global demand for maize (Zea mays L.) is expected to double, dictating the need to become the highest producing cereal crop (Ray, et al., 2013). Use of new technologies to increase food production has become essential so as to ensure food security and alleviate hunger. The Greenseeder^® Hand Planter was developed by researchers at Oklahoma State University to assist in addressing this global challenge. The study’s purpose was to describe perceptions of early users of the Greenseeder^® Hand Planter. An online questionnaire was sent to participants in 30 countries, including those in Africa, Asia, Central America, Europe, South America and the United States. A large majority (83.3%) of respondents indicated they would definitely or probably continue using the hand planter. Two-thirds of the respondents perceived the hand planter was somewhat better than other planting techniques. Participants reported that the hand planter presented relative advantages (Rogers, 2003) compared to other traditional planting tools, i.e., was more convenient; easier to use in some soils; reduced their workloads and it provided more time to do other farming activities. Two-thirds of the respondents indicated they would definitely recommend the tool to other farmers.