Basrijs Machinefabriek from Rijsbergen has once again taken a step forward in tree nursery mechanisation. With the PE80 Disc Planter, the company introduces a flexible intermediate model that bridges the gap between the compact PE70 and the robust PE100. The new planter responds to a clear market demand: growers who want efficient planting without compromising on precision or stability.

‘The 80 refers to the diameter of the disc,’ explains owner Corné Bastiaansen. ‘The larger the disc, the larger the plant material it can handle. The PE80 is ideal for situations where the PE70 is too light, but the PE100 is too heavy or too big.’ The idea originated in Germany, where growers wanted to plant forest and hedge stock in five rows with 25 cm spacing – a setup that was technically difficult to achieve with the existing models.

The PE80 combines the compact build of the PE70 with the power of the PE100. It uses the same disc design – two stainless steel discs with rubber coating for maximum grip on the plant material – but with a smaller diameter. As a result, the machine is lighter and easier to handle while ensuring perfect vertical planting. Each planting element has its own drive, giving the planter flexibility for different row configurations.

A new option on this model is the ability to mount a row tiller, which was previously available only on the PE100. ‘In Germany, the tiller helps roots to spread more easily,’ says Bastiaansen. ‘Here in the Netherlands, on sandy soils, it’s less critical, but it always improves the planting bed and root development.’ The PE80 can also be equipped with an electronic planting distance control system, allowing growers to fine-tune spacing independently from the mechanical drive.

During Basrijs’ technical demonstration days, growers could see the PE80 in action for the first time. The response was very positive: the combination of compact design, strong grip and optional tiller was highly appreciated. ‘Every grower has different needs,’ says Bastiaansen. ‘But giving them the choice makes all the difference. We develop machines not from behind a desk, but directly from field experience.’

With the PE80, Basrijs Machinefabriek reinforces its reputation as an innovative partner for the tree nursery industry. This family-owned company, specialised for decades in planting machines and mechanisation solutions, focuses on practical innovations that improve efficiency in the field. ‘Innovation doesn’t always mean bigger or more expensive,’ concludes Bastiaansen. ‘Sometimes it’s about designing smarter.’