We devised a process of refilling plug trays with cabbage seedlings after first removing defective seedlings and then using a modified vacuum cleaner to remove the soil from the empty cells. We compared the efficiencies of this process and the process of replanting seedlings in the field.
1) We classified the process of refilling plug trays for uniform seedling production into the following 4 steps: (a) initial removal of defective seedlings; (b) second removal of defective seedlings; (c) vacuum removal of soil from unoccupied cells; and (d) filling of empty cells with fresh seedlings.
2) To compare the efficiencies of this process and the replanting of seedlings in the field, we made a seed quality model.
3) We decided on a standard for seedlings to be removed.
4) We made a vacuum machine for the trial.
5) We then used the seed quality model to clarify the working efficiency of each step in the process of refilling trays.
6) In the comparison of the overall efficiencies of refilling trays by our process in the greenhouse and replanting seedlings in the field, our process was faster than the replanting work by 100min/10a.
7) Our system of refilling trays with nursery seedlings by removing unoccupied soil by vacuum is very efficient and would therefore save on labor costs.
