How a fertiliser spreader is set up is crucial for accurate and even spreading.

It also helps with ensuring efficient use, which ensures fertiliser is used sustainably for environmental and economic sustainability.

This week, the Fertiliser Association of Ireland released the fifth video in its series on the efficient use of fertilisers and the video focuses on setting up and calibrating the fertiliser spreader correctly to apply fertilisers as accurately as possible.

Uneven application

The association outlines incorrect rate and uneven application as two of the most common problems on farm.

Both lead to inefficient use, poor-quality crops in some parts of the field and lodging risk in other parts.

In the video, Teagasc’s Kildalton College machinery specialist Francis Quigley discusses the main steps to take when setting up the fertiliser spreader properly.

First step

The first step is to make sure the spreader is level and stable to give the best possible chance of a correct spread pattern.

The second step is calibrating the fertiliser spreader and deciding on the correct setting for the shutter opening.

This setting will vary with application rate, fertiliser type, density and flow ability in the spreader.

The spreader should be calibrated between different fertiliser types and batches.