By Clint Waltz
University of Georgia
Volume XXVIII
|
The two basic types of equipment used to apply granular
fertilizers or pesticides
to lawns are drop and rotary spreaders. Rotary spreaders are
typically preferred
to cover larger areas.
Newer models of rotary spreaders have a deflector shield for
improved edging
around ornamental beds or hard, impervious surfaces. However,
you may have to
adjust port openings to compensate for a change in
distribution. So check the
calibration before using deflector shields.
The application rate and distribution pattern are affected by
the spreader
design, the product (especially weight and density),
environmental conditions
(wind, temperature, and humidity) and the operator (speed).
Each material will have its own “effective” distribution
pattern, so calibrate
the spreader for each product being applied. As with all
spreaders and sprayers,
constant calibration is necessary to assure proper
distribution and delivery
rate. Consult the owner’s manual for proper calibration and
maintenance.
Use it correctly
To use your rotary spreaders properly:
- Choose a spreader that’s easy to fill and clean, to
minimize spills. Make
sure the ports (the bottom holes the material falls through)
are closed before
filling the spreader. And use a cover, especially in uneven
terrain. - Calibrate and know the “effective” swath width for each
material being applied.
This will determine the proper overlap. When possible, use
flags or other
markers to track the effective swath width. - Walk at a constant speed — 3 miles per hour is typically
recommended. - Keep the impeller (the part that “slings” the material)
level and parallel
to the ground. Tipping the spreader too far can result in
uneven spreading. - Apply materials while moving forward. Start walking before
opening the gate
of the spreader, and close the gate before stopping. And
avoid sharp turns
which make the application uneven. Turn off the spreader
before making a turn. - To avoid skips and streaks, split the rate and apply in
two directions perpendicular
to each other. Make a lap around the perimeter, and then
fill in the interior
of the area. - Avoid applying fertilizer or pesticide to nontarget areas
(driveways, roads,
bodies of water). Blow or sweep material from hard,
impermeable surfaces into
the turf area. - After use, empty the unused material into its original
container and wash
the spreader thoroughly in an area where the rinse water
can’t get into the
storm sewage. - Grease and oil all moving spreader parts as recommended by
the manufacturer.
Check and maintain proper tire pressure.
