Keeping your spreader in good condition is easy and will make a difference on your crops. Add these two simple steps to your routine to get the best results from your fertiliser.
Regularly check your spreader for wear and tear as it will have an impact on your spread pattern. Replace parts where appropriate and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance advice. Compare the PTO read-out on the screen in your tractor to the PTO shaft. In many cases, the readout is not the same, meaning your spreader is not operating at the PTO speed you think.
Clean the spreader both during and after use. Pay particular attention to the spreader vanes and clean these every time before refilling your hopper.
Cleaning is especially important when using fertilisers containing sulphur. Over time, sulphur fertilisers are known to leave deposits on the spreader vanes which can create a build-up or cause blockages which will lead to uneven spreading. Yara recommends using a 'WD40' type product and a rag to clean vanes. Oil-based lubricants will dissolve sulphur build-up quickly.
These short stories will show you why and how choosing the right fertiliser and ensuring the nutrients are spread accurately and evenly pay off. Here is our advice on how to protect your investments as well as the environment:
Improving nitrogen fertiliser efficiency is one way your farm can become more productive, profitable and sustainable. Try our quiz to find out how you can improve your farm's nitrogen fertiliser efficiency.
Yara supply our solid and liquid fertilisers and micronutrients in Wales through a network of local suppliers Use our interactive map to locate your nearest suppliers.