Fertiliser spreaders/sprayers should be calibrated for every different type and batch of fertiliser that each machine will apply in spring. This helps ensure that the intended rate is applied.
It is also worth considering tray tests for fertiliser spreaders to check evenness of spread. Calibration will not check evenness of spread.
Tray-testing is best done by an experienced technician so there may be a cost involved. Bearing in mind the cost of fertiliser and the extra yield good spreading brings, professional tray-testing can be worthwhile. Results are give as a 'coefficient of variation' or 'CV' expressed as a percentage. The higher the CV, the less evenly fertiliser spreads. A CV of 10-15% is acceptable in a tray-test and will prevent crop striping. Surveys indicate that CVs of 30% or more are common for spreaders in use. Improving CV from 30% to 10% will bring a yield benefit of around 0.25t/ha in wheat.
Always enter calibration and test dates in the Farm Record Sheet in Tried & Tested.
For more information read
Fertiliser Spreaders - Choosing, Maintaining and Using (AIC) Visit
SCS - Spreader & Sprayer Testing to book your spreader in for a testÂ
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