Spring-Loaded Stand-Up Jab Planter

Designed to sow medium-size seeds (e.g., corn, beans, peas, sunflower) rapidly from a standing position, the Spring-Loaded Stand-Up Jab Planter works by simply pressing it into the soil. Two models are available: a seeder only and a seeder/feeder. While both drop a selected number of seeds (1 or 2) at a selected depth (from 1.5 to 3 inches), the seeder/feeder model also deposits granular fertilizer (from 1/10 to 3 teaspoonfuls) into the soil 3 inches to the side. The device is best used for planting many long rows of the same crop at one time (not for small gardens). It features (1) a spring-loaded metal beak that’s pressed into the soil; it then opens as the beak is retracted to deposit the seed and/or fertilizer; and (2) a rotating drum that makes a partial turn with each jab to meter out the seeds and fertilizer.

Cost: Seeding model-$59; seeding/fertilizing model-$73

Impairment Category: Back, Strength/endurance