Maintaining and Caring For a Fertilizer Spreader
Using a fertilizer spreader to apply fertilizer is a great way to help ensure your lawn is in the best possible shape for the season. Whether you use a broadcast or drop type, there are several things you should know about maintaining and caring for your spreader.
Drop spreaders vs broadcast spreaders
Whether you are putting down seeds for a new lawn, fertilizing a garden or just amending soil, you will need a spreader. The type of spreader you choose depends on the size of your yard and the type of application you plan on making. However, there are two main types of spreaders: broadcast and drop. Each has its advantages and disadvantages.
A broadcast spreader is a device that uses a rotating disc to spread materials on your lawn. You can use this type of spreader to apply fertilizers, granules and other products. You can also use a broadcast spreader to cover large areas quickly and efficiently. There are handheld broadcast spreaders and large-scale versions that can be attached to an ATV.
While both are capable of spreading a variety of granules, the best spreader is determined by the intended purpose. For example, if you are looking to spread herbicides on your lawn, a broadcast spreader will not be of much help. Instead, you should opt for a multipurpose spreader, which comes in a variety of shapes and sizes.
The most obvious difference between a broadcast and a drop spreader is the manner in which they apply the material. Broadcast spreaders work by applying the product in a pattern, whereas a drop spreader spreads the seed in a swath. This means that each lap you make will result in less coverage than the same number of passes made with a drop spreader. It also takes more time for a drop spreader to achieve its intended goal.
One of the more important reasons to use a broadcast spreader is that it can help you avoid messing up fertilizer spreader your lawn. This is especially helpful if you are laying down a mixture of granules, which can stain pavement.
Another advantage to using a broadcast spreader is that you can spread a larger amount of material in a shorter amount of time than you would with a drop spreader. In addition, a broadcast spreader has a larger capacity than a drop spreader. It also has a side-shield feature that helps avoid spreading the product on hard surfaces, such as patios and driveways.
Regardless of your spreader of choice, it is important to remember that you should always wear personal protective equipment, such as safety goggles and gloves, as you will be handling heavy equipment and chemicals. Additionally, most states require you to clean up any excess product on your hardscapes.
Regardless of your choice of spreader, you should take the time to learn the proper way to use it. This will ensure that you get the most benefit from your investment. The type of spreader you purchase should match your needs and budget. You should also consider the size of your lawn and your spreading routine to ensure that you are able to get the most out of your new machine.
Diameter of the openings in the bottom of the spreader
Whether you have a rotary or broadcast spreader, it is vital to calibrate the device so that it delivers the proper amount of fertilizer to your turf. A poor calibration can lead to a spread pattern that is too narrow, or too wide. It can also affect the appearance of your turf, such as banding, striping, and turf banding. For instance, a clogged shutter will allow fertilizer to spill out of the device and into the grass, rather than distributing it to your turf.
A typical spreader has a hopper with downwardly converging side walls that provide a long, narrow opening at the bottom. This opening is suitable for seeding small plants or for spreading heavy fertilizer applications. The opening is also equipped with a spinning disc that throws the product in a particular pattern. The size of the opening and the speed of the spinner-disc are two of the most important factors affecting the quality of the spread.
For the most part, the only way to properly calibrate a spreader is to fill it half full with your fertilizer, and then use the device to cover a row of pans. After a few passes over each box, make a note of the distance between each pan and the center pan. This is the distance that should be adjusted to achieve the same amount of fertilizer on each side of the hopper.
A good starting point is to use the manual setting of your spreader. If the manufacturer offers a numerical rating for your spreader, it may include the appropriate size of the opening for your desired rate of application. If your spreader doesn’t come with this measurement, you can calculate it yourself with equations.
You should also consider the flow divider, which is located above the spinner-discs. Depending on the type of material you are spreading, the position of the flow divider can change the spread pattern. In general, lower spinner-disc speeds are best for evenly distributing fertilizer. Higher speeds can cause the distribution to skew.
Another useful piece of information about a spreader is the amount of weight the product is able to retain. For example, a rotary spreader should be able to hold up to one to four fluid ounces. Similarly, a broadcast spreader should be able to hold up one to three pounds.
To achieve the most accurate calibration, you can choose to have a test strip made. The test strip should be at least 50 feet in length. You can also use clear cups, containers, or tubes. The spreader should be emptied and cleaned thoroughly after applying granular products. This prevents corrosion from building up in the spreader’s parts.
If your spreader has a variable feed mechanism, this can help to distribute the highest rates of fertilizer per acre. However, you will need to open and close the feed mechanism frequently.
Maintenance of a fertilizer spreader
Keeping a fertilizer spreader in good condition is crucial for accurate application of the product. The proper maintenance of a spreader ensures that you can make use of it for a long time. However, you need to follow the specific guidelines that are provided by your spreader manufacturer.
First, it is important to check for signs of wear. For example, check the load-bearing components, the chain, the belt, and the fasteners. If any of these are damaged, replace them. If you are unsure, refer to the owner’s manual.
It is also important to clean the spreader after each use. This prevents corrosion of the spreader’s parts. This includes the conveyor, the load-bearing components, the belt, and the gear set. You can do this by cleaning the spreader using water and WD-40. You should then rinse the spreader with a garden hose. Afterwards, store the spreader away from direct sunlight.
If you use a walk-behind spreader, it is a good idea to do a visual inspection every day. You should also check for the condition of the chain and the slide lever. Moreover, you should lubricate the spreader’s moving parts according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
In addition, you should check the speed of the spreader. If you notice that the speed is not appropriate, it is recommended that you fertilizer spreader adjust the belt tension. If your spreader is equipped with an electronic control, you can monitor your settings. If the spreader is not electronically controlled, it is still possible to carry out a calibration in the field.
Another factor to consider is the density of the fertilizer. This is important because it affects the distance that the spreader travels. If you apply too much, it can cause yellow spots on your lawn. It may also affect your yield.
During the spreading season, the machine should be calibrated several times. This is done to measure the actual dispersal weight against the intended dispersal weight. You can then fine-tune the distribution. You can also perform an in-field calibration to get a more accurate result.
If you want to test the effectiveness of the spreader, you can do so by carrying out a tray test. This test is carried out by spreading 20 pounds of fertilizer onto a test area. The effective spread width is the distance between the two sides of the test area. For instance, a 20 ft by 50 ft area is an effective spread width. You can then lay out the test area to see how the fertilizer has been distributed.
If you find that the shut-off plate is stuck, it is a sign of an improperly-functioning spreader. It can also cause injury to plants. You should therefore adjust the shut-off plate to ensure that it works properly.
If you notice that the fins on the spreader are starting to scale, it is best to replace them. The scaled fins can prevent the spreader from applying the fertilizer evenly. You should do this every 25,000 to 35,000 acres.