Thursday, 28 March 2013

The Best Variable Rate Fertilizer Spreader

By Lee Lawrence


Farmers all over the country must keep a very close eye on costs and crop yields to stay in business. Every part of their growing process from start to finish has to be as cost effective as possible. One way to stay competitive is to use an effective variable rate fertilizer spreader.

Fields must receive some fertilizers every year. They help to replace the nutrients that are lost from the soil and ensure a productive season. Even grass land and paddocks usually need an application of lime in the spring. This helps to keep the soil at an optimal ph level. It is especially important in wooded areas where there is a lot of shade. Lime helps to neutralize the soil and off set the effects of moss and rotting vegetation.

Many farmers are now shopping on line. They know that there are some excellent bargains available to those who are willing to look. It may be much easier to head over to the local dealer and buy a nice new spreader right off the lot, but for those on a budget their has to be another way. Farm machinery is very expensive and many farmers must take out a loan. If they can find a used item that is still in great shape, they can save themselves literally thousands of dollars.

The newer generation of spreaders are capable of handling two, three or even four different products at the same time. This can save the farmer a tremendous amount of money and time. Instead of having to cross the field multiple times, they save gas by only having to make one run and are finished. This can also be a significant advantage in inclement weather. Having to drive over wet ground repeatedly causes a lot of damage.

The most important factor to consider is the exact use of the spreader. Each one is designed with a particular crop in mind. Some are for working in citrus orchards, whilst others are for cotton fields. The farmer must know exactly what he is looking at and how to asses the condition of the machine. A high degree of technical knowledge is very important.

A great feature of the modern spreaders is that they are very easy to use. They will also fit onto the back of a variety of vehicles. This is an important feature to discuss with the manufacturer. Spreaders are available in the basic single axle or the more heavy duty double axle versions.

The aim of every spreader is to produce a consistent and wide spreading application. There should be no overlap, as this really is a waste of expensive fertilizers. The variable speed feature can be controlled from the tractor cab and allows the driver to slow down the rate as they are turning at the end of the field. The effective control and steady flow rates all add up to make the machine as effective as possible.

The entire purpose of a variable rate fertilizer spreader is to apply the fertilizer or lime in a consistent manner. The wide pattern application should cover a lot of ground in each sweep, with no overlap. The steel control lines and various spinner speeds all combine to make this possible and encourage the highest possible yield from each crop.




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