Introduction: The Machine That Sowed the Modern Small Farm In the pantheon of hand-powered farm equipment, few names command as much respect as the Planet Jr. line manufactured by the S.L. Allen & Company of Philadelphia, and later by Cole Manufacturing. Among their most versatile and enduring creations is the Planet Jr. No. 4 Seeder —often called the “push seeder” or “wheel hoe seeder.” Produced from the early 1900s through the mid-20th century, this machine bridged the gap between back-breaking hand sowing and expensive horse-drawn equipment.
During WWII, the No. 4 was listed as “essential civilian equipment” and sold without ration stamps. Victory Gardens across America were sown with Planet Jr. seeders. Today, a functioning No. 4 is a direct connection to that era of resilience and self-reliance. Make copies for your records. planet jr no 4 seeder manual
For additional parts, visit the Planet Jr. Collectors Forum online. To share your restoration, tag #PlanetJrNo4 on social media. Introduction: The Machine That Sowed the Modern Small
This manual is not merely a reprint of original factory instructions. It is a living document for the modern gardener, small-scale organic farmer, antique tool collector, and self-sufficiency enthusiast. Whether you found a rusted No. 4 in a barn, inherited one from a grandfather, or bought a restored unit online, this guide will help you plant perfect rows of corn, beans, peas, beets, carrots, onions, and more—with the precision of a 1920s market gardener. Before operating, familiarize yourself with the key components. The No. 4 is a single-wheel, push-type seeder with interchangeable seed plates and adjustable furrow openers. Among their most versatile and enduring creations is