An Overview Of How Variable Rate Spreaders Work

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.

Make use of sensors to determine the required rate. Technology has simplified the work required when applying fertilizer. In this method, no kind of mapping or previously gathered information is needed. The machine is simply placed onto the farm coupled with a sensor. This device can determine the needs of the soil and deal with them appropriately.

Program the spreader for fertilizer application. In the case of a subdivided field, the machine needs to be specific to the nutrient requirements on each section. Add enough product onto the machine depending on the area that will be worked on. Walk at a steady pace to ensure proper product distribution. Walking quite fast will lead to uneven distribution in a particular field.

Leads to a reduction in expenditure. If production in the field has been weighing on the farmer, new technology is probably the way out. When working with a spreader, enough fertilizer is placed over the area. This ensures there is a surplus left for use during the next time when placement is needed. Money saved from this can help alleviate the stress of production for the farmer.

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.




About the Author: