Fertiliser spreading advice
Spreader calibration
Making adjustments to your spreader does not require special tools or training. Calibration is an easy and quick way to increase the quality of your harvest.
When the spreader is set up, you are ready to spread. Read our fertiliser application advice here >
Get your settings right
You want to make sure that all of your fertiliser is going exactly where it's needed. This is how to do it.
First, keep in mind that the correct setting of your spreading machine is determined by the physical properties of the fertiliser: particle size distribution, bulk density and flow rate all influence the fertiliser spreader calibration settings.
Different kinds of fertiliser – or even the same fertiliser from different production plants – may require different settings. Always check the information on the bag of fertiliser and remember to change the settings every time you switch to a different kind of fertiliser.
You find the correct settings on the spreader manufacturer's tables. These are based on tests under ideal conditions in test stations and give information on how to set the spreader for optimum even spreading at the desired application rate (kg/ha) and at a specific working width.
Set the spreader at the right height above the crop when you are out in the field. This measurement is also found in the spreader manufacturer's tables (links lower down this page).
Next, adjust the angle at which the fertiliser hits the disk, as this determines how far the fertiliser will be thrown.
The last adjustment you must make before you check if the spreader is working properly, is the flow rate controller, as this impacts how much fertiliser is applied per acre. Again, refer to the instructions given by the spreader manufacturer and you will be good to go.
To make sure you’re achieving the best possible spreading result, you can perform a tray test using your particular combination of spreader settings and fertiliser.
The simple tray test will help you fine tune the settings, so you can rest assured that the fertiliser is spread evenly across the entire spreading width. A separate test should be conducted for different fertilisers. You can either do this yourself or hire a fertiliser spreader calibration expert to conduct the tests.
When the spreader is set up, you are ready to spread. Read our fertiliser application advice here >
Fertiliser spreader settings
To make sure you can find the right spreader settings for fertilisers, Yara regularly supplies its fertilisers to the various spreader manufacturers. This way they can update the settings for spreader adjustments available on their websites.
Please use the links below to select your spreader manufacturer to visit the fertiliser spreader calibrations setting page on their site.
Are you interested in taking your spreading one step further? Read more about the N-Sensor which ensures that the right and optimal rate of fertiliser is applied at each individual part of the field.
N-Sensor - to variably apply nitrogen
The N-Sensor is a variable rate sensor that measures crop nitrogen requirement at the time of application and variably adjusts the fertiliser rate accordingly.
More advice
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:
Related Articles
Fertiliser handling and transport
It is important to handle and transport fertiliser safely whilst minimising deterioration in quality. Correct handling and transportation of fertiliser should be based on climatic conditions, the type of fertiliser and how it is shipped (bulk or bags).
Fertiliser storage
Correct storage of fertiliser is important to ensure safety. Where possible, fertilisers should be stored in a closed, secure storage place to protect the product from the weather and reduce the risk of theft.
Physical properties of fertilisers
The physical properties of a fertiliser are determined by its chemical composition and how it is produced. An understanding of product properties is useful for handling, storage and spreading of fertiliser.
Recommended fertilisers
To spread fertiliser accurately over wide bout widths it is important to use a quality fertiliser. All Yara fertilisers have excellent spreading characteristics but the following fertilisers are some of the most popular and are particularly recommended.
