Fertiliser Distributors

Fertiliser distributors
Fertiliser distributors are used widely in turf culture for spreading fertiliser evenly and efficiently. Any distributors should be able to carry out the following functions:

Spinning disc distributor

These machines are available in both pedestrian or tractor mounted versions. In most cases the tractor mounted will be used on football pitches.
The fertiliser is contained in an inverted conical shaped hopper and spreader in a wide arc by a horizontally rotating disc driven by land wheels. The fertiliser is fed to the centre of the disc by gravity. An agitator in the base will help prevent blocking and improve distribution.

The spinning disc distributor has a wide distribution width and is therefore a quicker method of applying a fertiliser.

This type of distributor requires a careful operator to ensure an even spread. Less fertiliser is placed towards the sides of the distribution width, therefore a certain amount of overlapping is required. It is fair to mention that some of the latest models of the spinning disc distributors have design features that help to compensate for the problem of uneven placement. Variation in distribution width is produced by a change in forward speed or a change in the material used.

The spinning disc distributor is rather difficult to calibrate accurately. One method is to place a one metre square of corrugated cardboard on the surface. When the distributor is passed over the sheet the fertiliser can be collected and weighted. Any necessary adjustment can be made by altering the slide in the base of the hopper until the correct calibration is achieved.

Maintenance of distributors

Corrosion of distributors can occur very easily due to the chemical action of the fertiliser if it becomes damp. This can result in replacement of parts, which is unnecessary cost. A wide range of distributors use of plastic, rubber and fibreglass to try and prevent corrosion. It can be kept to a minimum by taking the following precautions:

Fertiliser application

Using disc distributors tend to apply more to the centre of the distributors width. To avoid uneven placement the machine is calibrated to half the rate required. If the machine is then used in the pattern indicated it would supply the correct rate by passing the whole site twice.

Fertiliser spreading

Any grass area will, from time to time, have to be fed. The size of area to be fed will determine the type of applicator to be used.

On most multiple pitch situations the spreader will probably be tractor mounted like the picture on the left. The cone shaped spreader will hold around 8 bags of fertiliser at a time. The pitch area can then be marked out allowing the fertiliser to be spread on evenly.

Care must be taken with such spreaders not to damage the agitator where the fertiliser will pass out.It is also advisable not to spread in windy conditions. The inside of the spreader should be kept dry.