Thursday, December 11, 2014

The Advantages Of Variable Rate Fertilizer Spreader

The Advantages Of Variable Rate Fertilizer Spreader

By Lucia Weeks


Farming is not an easy task. There are external factors that could affect both quality and quantity of the harvests. Although most of these are beyond human control, there are means to maximize certain factors. Since time immemorial, manures are applied in natural farming to sustain the nutrients for the plants. Of course, with technological advancements come agricultural innovations as well.

The variable rate fertilizer spreader is one of the newest developments in agriculture. Every farmer would agree that the plant's needs, particularly the quantity of fertilizers required, vary from one plant to another. Thus, it is impractical and unwise to apply a fixed quantity of fertilizer in all the plants across the farm. Nonetheless, manually applying the fertilizers can be time consuming especially in vast fields.

This dilemma is what the variable rate fertilization is trying to address. The VRF automated applicator is capable of determining the right quantity of fertilizers to be deposited in each plant. Aside from the spread pattern initially entered on the system, the spreader gathers real-time data through its sensors. The automation can also cover a wide area more quickly.

This technology is deemed environment-friendly because it aids in decreasing the adverse effects of applying excessive fertilizers. Too much chemical deposited on the ground could affect its nutrient content and alter its properties. This could possibly contaminate the ground water as well due to leaching. In the long run, the quality of the harvests will be affected, too.

For the farmers, this also means maximizing profitability. There are no fertilizers wasted because the plants get just the right amount it needs. According to research, farmers can save up to 40 percent of fertilizers immediately on the first use of the spreader. This means saving thousands of unnecessary expenses. Less fertilizer per acre also means less fuel costs.

Therefore, return of investment is sure to be expected. Besides significant reduction of expenses, farmers can also capitalize on the present field conditions. This can help improve the quality of the crops for the future yields. This could lead to consistency in growth pattern, too, which will become a valuable asset a few years in the future.

An automated applicator is typically comprised of optical sensors on either sides and a 3-ton spreader. The sensors collect real-time data on certain variables that determine the quantity of the fertilizer and its spread pattern. The variables can be predictive, temporal and spatial.

Temporal variables are the least stable and changing constantly. Seasonal and growth changes are some of its examples. Spatial variables are factors concerning the soil and its compositions, such as crop growth, pH value of the soil and presence of diseases or pests. Meanwhile, yield and weather belong to predictive variables, which can be predicted through historical data and trend.

Using variable rate spreader can definitely benefit farmers. In fact, many citrus growers are adapting this technology. When choosing an applicator, you should remember that not a single size fits all. If you want to make the most of it, you may opt to customize your spreader to suit your needs. You may choose from self-propelled spreaders, truck spreaders or row crop spreaders to name a few.




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