If you’ve planted with a vacuum or finger pickup planter, you’ve likely used talc, graphite, or an 80/20 blend to keep your seed flowing smoothly. It’s a standard practice—and for good reason. These lubricants help reduce static, protect planter components, and improve seed singulation. But recently, we’ve had more conversations with growers about talc/graphite replacements, and many are asking: “Are they worth it?”
As your local ag retail partner, here’s what we think you should know.
What Are Talc/Graphite Replacements?
Talc/graphite replacements are newer seed box additives designed to do everything traditional lubricants do—but with added agronomic value. These products often include:
- Micronutrients like zinc, manganese, or boron
- Biologicals such as beneficial microbes or fungi
- Polymer-based lubricants that are safer to handle and better for equipment
They’re applied just like talc or graphite—directly in the seed box at planting. But beyond just helping seeds flow, they aim to help them grow.
Why Are Growers Making the Switch?
Here are the top reasons we hear from customers who are moving toward talc/graphite replacements:
Improved Seedling Vigor
Many of these products include nutrients or biologicals that support early root development and emergence. In tough planting conditions—cold soils, compaction, or wet spots—that early boost can make a noticeable difference.
Cleaner and Safer to Use
Let’s face it: talc and graphite are messy. They create airborne dust, coat equipment, and raise safety concerns—especially in enclosed cabs. Most of these replacements are low-dust or dust-free, making them easier on equipment and operators alike.
Planter Protection and Performance
These products still offer the dry lubrication needed for proper seed drop and wear reduction in the meter. And some do an even better job at reducing static and bridging, especially on treated seed.
Stacked ROI Potential
When you factor in planter performance and the potential for improved stands, faster emergence, and early nutrition, the ROI conversation gets more interesting. It’s not just about planter mechanics anymore—it’s about plant health from day one.
What to Ask Before Switching
Not every replacement is created equal. Here’s what we recommend thinking about:
- What does your seed treatment already include? Avoid overlap
- What are your early season challenges? Cold soils? Tough emergence?
- Are you looking for added nutrition or biological benefit?
- What’s your planter system? Some products work better in certain types of meters.
We have several options available and can help you compare them based on your crops, conditions, and goals. Contact us to chat with our team or give us a call at (218) 891-2211.
Our Bottom Line
If you’re happy with your current talc/graphite setup, there’s nothing wrong with sticking with it. But if you’re looking for a cleaner, more efficient product that can offer agronomic benefits beyond the hopper, it might be time to try a talc/graphite replacement on a few passes this spring.
It’s one small change that could pay off in stand quality, uniform emergence, and ultimately—yield.
Talk to Us About Your Planter Setup
Our team is here to help you dial in your planting prep—from seed treatments to in-furrow nutrition to seed lubricants that do more than just lube. Let’s talk about how to make your planter work harder for you this season.
Remember you can pick up all of your seed lubrication needs while you are here picking up your treated seed. Let our staff know when you get to the treater what you would like and we’ll get it ready before you go.*
*Subject to product availability
