Spreader Best Broadcast SEEDER NOT SPREADER

   / Best Broadcast SEEDER NOT SPREADER #1  

hotchkiss

Gold Member
Joined
Mar 5, 2008
Messages
280
Location
Ohio
Tractor
JD 6330, JD 5055e, Ford 4000,
Hi folks. I have searched the attatchments section and read the posts regarding seeders and spreaders. Nevertheless, I would still like to post a question to you.

I am looking for a broadcast seeder. I have PTO driven spreader that I used to spread fertilizer. However, I don't trust it to spread small seeds like clover.

Therefore, I am looking for your recommendations regarding what to use to spread small clover, barrassica and grass seeds like timothy. I am willing to use one of the tractors or one of the ATV's with which to seed. Let me know what you think.
 
   / Best Broadcast SEEDER NOT SPREADER #3  
I picked a seeder/spreader pretty much exactly like the herd seeder from TSC. I'm not sure why you don't trust it for spreading seed but I've use mine and the only complaint I've had is at the very end when it's about to run out it gets a bit dusty.
 
   / Best Broadcast SEEDER NOT SPREADER #4  
I just seen your post and am having almost same issues. I'm thinking of using some kind of filler, such as diatomaceous earth, to mix with seed to give more volume and better distribution. Some of the guys here may have some ideas as what to do. If adding filler to the seed is a good idea or not. bjr
 
   / Best Broadcast SEEDER NOT SPREADER #5  
How many acres?

We use a Howse hopper type broadcast seeder with our Ford 9N. The controls to shut the hopper are located too low to use the hopper with the TYM T450. It works great for rangeland grasses and alfalfa seed. We use a filler, usually cracked corn with the seed and add the alfalfa seed in small batches into the hopper periodically so it will not separate out of the mix. We calculate the amount of seed we'll need and place quantities in paper bags at the end of each row, that way the seeds don't get too beat up by the action of the hopper.

For smaller projects: one acre or so we use a Earthway hand held seed spreader. It will work better for the smaller seed.

Cracked corn is inexpensive and will not sprout: Don't use anything that is viable for your filler.
 
   / Best Broadcast SEEDER NOT SPREADER
  • Thread Starter
#6  
RWolf: I don't trust my large spreader because it has spread many, many tons of fertilizer and has some age on it. It is also so large that it is really hard to make small adjustments.

Wendi: As for the number of acres, I usually do not seed more than 7-9 acres at a time.

As for filler, I prefer to not use any. I have seeded a lot of acres with an ATV seeder. You don't need any filler and you can make micro adjustments as to the amount of seed being spread. However, the down side is that there always seems to be a problem with the electric motor.
 
   / Best Broadcast SEEDER NOT SPREADER #7  
AHH, I see said the blind man. Mine isn't worn out ...yet... As far as controls that is a downfall for these types of spreaders. Mine is a 300# and I did a light broadcast over about 15 acres with a pasture mix (300# worth). Will be doing some winter grass soon.
 
 
 
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