Calibrating one’s fertiliser spreader correctly is of key importance to using fertiliser efficiently – and is the subject of the latest video from the Fertiliser Association of Ireland.
The fifth video in the association’s video series on the “Efficient Use of Fertilisers” looks at the importance of setting up and calibrating the fertiliser spreader correctly, in order to apply fertilisers as accurately as possible.
The video can be seen below:
The role of the fertiliser spreader is often underestimated in the delivery of fertilisers (N, P and K), according to the association, with the objective to spread as evenly and as accurately as possible.
Fertilisers are a significant cost in grassland and tillage farming systems, representing between 20% to 30% of total production costs for either a cereal or grass silage crop.
There are many steps involved in determining the actual rate of fertiliser from soil sampling to preparing a fertiliser plan.
To profit from fertiliser planning it is essential that fertilisers are applied precisely and accurately, the Fertiliser Association of Ireland notes.
Spreading rate and application
When spreading fertilisers, two common problems that can occur on farm during spreading is firstly, applying the incorrect rate and secondly, uneven application leading to crop stripping, the organisation highlights.
Applying the incorrect rate may result in under or over crop fertilisation, where too much is applied; this can result in extra fertiliser costs and increased risk of nutrient losses.
Uneven fertiliser application – for example in a grass silage crop – may result in a crop with over/underapplication.
Overapplication increases the risk of crop lodging, resulting in poorer quality silage while underapplication results in lower grass yields at harvest time.
Spreader calibrating
In the video above, Francis Quigley, Teagasc machinery specialist at Kildalton College, discusses the main steps to take when setting up the fertiliser spreader to deliver fertilisers as accurately as possible.
First off, Francis highlights the importance of setting the spreader up correctly on the tractor – for example ensuring the fertiliser spreader is set level, stable and evenly from side to side to ensure even application.
Calibrating the fertiliser spreader is the next step to ensure the correct rate of fertiliser application. The setting for the shutter opening will differ, even for the same application rate, depending on the type of fertiliser, its density and flow ability in the spreader.
The machinery specialist demonstrates how to calibrate a fertiliser spreader to determine the application rate, and how to adjust the application rate regulator.
Francis highlighted: “It is important to set the spreader to the correct height when you get to the field and the fertiliser spreader should be set 75cm above the crop.”
