Need advice - 3 pt fertilizer/seeder

[RussMan]

I am interested in buying a seeder/fert spreader for my tractor. I saw them advertised in the local farm store for about $335 for 6 bushel size, then they had a 10 bushel size for not much more $. I am curious if anyone that owns one has any recommendations on size (is the larger one hard to handle?), or any particular brand that works well. Or anything else I need to be watch for when buying one? I have a 30 hp, so assume weight is not an issue, although I have no idea how much 10 bushel of fert. weighs. Thanks for any advice.

 

[savageayape]

There is no question... Herd is the best. Do a search on this site to read other posts about Herd spreaders and the competition's cone shaped spreaders. You should also check out Herd's web site and give the owner of the company a call. He will talk with you personally. I own one and love it!

 

[bjr]

I don't know what style you're talking about whether it's a cone shaped spin spreader or a drop spreader? I have a cone spin spreader and it does okay for applying dry fertilizer, but for seeding small grass seed it doesn't have the control I need. So for just spreading dry fertilizer the 300 (I think this means 300 lbs weight) series works fine. I think I would try to get one that has the poly tub cone though, they may last longer than the steel ones. bjr

 

[TNhobbyfarmer]

I have the larger 3 pt. cone spreader. It's can be a bear to put on by yourself. I am thinking about selling it and getting either the smaller 3 pt. version or even the pull type that can be pulled behind a 4 wheeler. The big one is just too large for my needs and is somewhat hard to mount on the tractor.

 

[RussMan]

I was thinking a larger one would be hard to handle. There are some that mount on the back of an ATV, but they seem so small you would constantly be stopping to refill.

Specifically, I was looking at the cone type broadcast (not drop) spreader.

 

[Loogie]

Read this recent thread on spreaders:
Need Seed Spreader Advice Please

 

[art]

Make sure it has two gates at the bottom to open to give a better spread pattern. The larger hoppers are not much of a price difference if you can handle it.

 

[xlr82v2]

I've got a Farm Star brand cone spreader... I think it's the 6 bushel size. It does pretty good spreading dry fertilizer, and ok spreading lime, although I had to add some extra "beaters" on it to help keep the lime from bridging.

My brother in law used it last year to spread millet seed also on about 40 acres, he said it did pretty good doing that also.

I'm happy with it...

 

[Soundguy]

I like the cone spreaders. I prefer the metal hopper ones vs the palstic hoppers due to FL ultra violet light.

Make sure it has a good agitator too. Cheap spreaders have lousy agitators..

Soundguy

 

[Farmwithjunk]

Herd is a good brand. Well established company. Long history of well made products.

Probably the best performing brand, regardless of cost is VICON. Dust off your wallet before shopping and have your nitro pills handy.