Monday 14 May 2018

Working With Variable Rate Spreaders

By Michelle Ross


The agricultural industry keeps the entire workforce in all countries going. This is because individuals need food to survive and handle their tasks efficiently. To ensure food production is sufficient, farmers ensure they keep up with new methods that will ensure sustainable production. The information below explains more on variable rate spreaders.

Prepare a soil fertility map. This is a geographical representation of the soil in the area of interest. It gives information about the soil and its properties. The properties could include pH, texture, and organic matter. Modern maps are more detailed than the traditional ones due to the use of digital soil mapping techniques. Crop producers make use of a variety of sources when trying to learn more about a certain field.

Divide the field. This is necessary when a map is in use. Those in charge of this activity measure the total area of the farm to ensure the sizes of the subdivided plots are equal. A soil sample from each plot is obtained. This is to find out the requirements of each space as they may differ. This enables one to apply an adequate amount of fertilizer.

Set up sensor based rate application. Sensors are used to measure the properties of the respective soil right before any application is done. The measurements obtained are processed immediately and used to control the fertilizer applicator. This method does not require the use of maps nor data that was collected previously.

Set up the spreader manually. This works best for the areas that were divided for the sake of carrying out soil tests. The setting needs to be different because of the needs of each divided space. The slot that allows the product to get out into the field should be enough to ensure that enough of it is able to make it out. Individuals need to walk steadily while pushing the tool to allow for an even spread.

Reduces the money that is used for production purposes. Farmers always set up a budget during the planting season to ensure every important material is available. Some of these items are expensive and in some seasons, they have to go without them. With minimal use of fertilizer, there will be more money to spend on other vital areas of the farm.

The growth in the field tends to show consistency. For plants to grow well, all the necessities need to be availed and in the right amount. The spreader allows for accurate delivery of nutrient material. This ensures equality across the field. If all the growth requirements are provided, the plants are able to grow steadily and produce great results when the time for harvest reaches.

Reduce pollution in the environment. Nutrients provided through fertilizers are helpful, however, they can be harmful if applied inappropriately. Spreaders reduce pollution if they are used to apply the right rate. Moreover, farmers need to be timely as they place these nutrients so that they can be absorbed fast into the soil at a fast rate. This will prevent runoff during rainy weather.




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