Spreader Broadcast spreading chart: Small/Medium/Large?

[Learning to Farm]

Happy Friday Everyone!

Well, I may be the only person you will hear that is glad that Irene is coming. I am a long time hurricane kid and am planning on using the backside rain bands to wet down the Nitrogen that I am going to spread.

But I am putting the spreader before the tractor, so to say.

I really need insight on how to decide what size material I am spreading. I have not seen it yet but I had the bags of 46% N (it is Urea) delivered today.

Thanks!

[foggy1111]

I have that same Cosmo spreader as shown in your picture. IIRC.....I used the medium size setting to approximate the settings on my spreader. Keep in mind that this information printed on the spreader is strictly a guide (estimate).

What you need to do is measure your plot size(s) and determine the amount (pounds) you want to spread on the land. Then by trial and error you can determine the setting on the spreader.....as well as the tractor speed and RPM of the spinner plate (and even the height of the spreader to the ground). Lotsa variables to get set up right. Log your results so you get it right the next time.

I like to pick a speed which I spread....and an RPM....and a spreader height.....and try to use those same settings for most of my plots. Then its a matter of just regulating the gate(s) on the spreader to get the right rate. Sometimes I will also adjust the RPM from the PTO to sling a little farther or less to get one-pass coverage.

You should have a book (operating manual) with your spreader to give you more information. If not go online and see if you can print it off. The King Kutter site has manuals to download. I do not remember the RPM setting on the tractor to the the material to spread at the width's shown. Lotsa factors involved.....you need to read and understand the manual.

With time you gain some feel for the set up....and have some notes and operating history to give you some help. Then your an eggspert.

[Carykong]

I presume that you are fertilizing pasture? You are broadcasting a fairly high concentration of nitrogen. So,if you are trying to avoid green streaks, I would start by dialing back the rate of your broadcast and if time allows and the field is not real big crisscross the field rather than limit yourself to straight rows. The recommended rate of application on most fertilizer bags suggests the "maximum allowable" which is usually more than you really need.