Broadcast spreaders

[CleanCutMaint]

What, if any, is the proper amount of overlap when applying granular fertilizer?

[pow]

It all depends on your spreader. Calibrate it so that you will know what your speader is spreading. Set pie plates one foot apart to determine the volume of chemical on the ends verses the middle. I know it's hard to do at times but you want the same amount spread over the entire lawn other wise you'll end up with greener stripes than in other places.

[GroundKprs]

You want to overlap to get even coverage. Effective spread width is point at which spread rate drops to half of center rate. See Spreader Calibration for details.

[MortNuke]

If you are unsure about the calibration and overlap, or using a homeowner model of spreader, do the following:

Start with a lower spreader setting (about half the recommended rate), and make two complete passes over the turf, changing direction 90 degrees for second pass. Don't risk leaving uneven color. Then, of course, blow off all cement to prevent any discoloration.

As you get more skilled (and better equipment), and see the results of your work over a few weeks, you'll get a better feel for applications and can begin making single passes at the recommended rate.

Mort

[bobkessler]

Broadcast Spreaders

Rotary broadcast spreaders are notoriously inaccurate. About the only proper way to get an idea about how much product you are applying over a given area, is by weight. Still that leaves something to be desired since no plots are evenly laid out for you, and you alter speed in response to curves, turns, turf depth, etc. Add in the fact that the fertilizer itself may contain lumps that inhibit even spread.
There is usually an overlap statement on the fertilizer bag. Experiment away!

[jrservices]

Rotary broadcast spreaders are notoriously inaccurate. About the only proper way to get an idea about how much product you are applying over a given area, is by weight. Still that leaves something to be desired since no plots are evenly laid out for you, and you alter speed in response to curves, turns, turf depth, etc. Add in the fact that the fertilizer itself may contain lumps that inhibit even spread.
There is usually an overlap statement on the fertilizer bag. Experiment away!

This is a good statement. So many variables, how often will everything be 100% accurate, anyway.

[crzymoe]

so how do most of you put down your fert? liquid or granualar?

[mariner]

The usual way. After a while you'll just get the feel and of course with the same equipment you'll get it dialed in to your walking speed.

[CK-1]

so how do most of you put down your fert? liquid or granualar?

granular dude..

[work it]

so how do most of you put down your fert? liquid or granualar?

It all depends on the treatment. If it's just fert I like to use granular, but if I'm splitting my pre-m apps and mixing with fert I like to use liquid.

[bobkessler]

so how do most of you put down your fert? liquid or granualar?

For the most part Nitrogen works best when available in small doses over a longer period of time. That usually means granular, although liquids have come a long way recently.
Experiment experiment experiment. (Carefully)

[Ric]

For the most part Nitrogen works best when available in small doses over a longer period of time. That usually means granular, although liquids have come a long way recently.
Experiment experiment experiment. (Carefully)

Bob

I am leaning more and more toward Granular applys. With two Cab over set up as spray units and now being semi retired, I am thinking on the best step up at least expense. I am planning on buying a small enclosed trailer in the 6 X 12 size. I have been using an open trailer and found the rain not to help the bagged fert. I like the Lesco Truckster and have two of them mounted on Older Walker Lawn mowers. No need for a new machine to rust away. What I like about the Lesco Truckster is the electric Broad cast wheel that spins constantly. I also have a rheostat to control the broad cast wheel speed as well as a remote 3rd third hole and guard.

Now in Our Calcareous sandy soil, I feel a good slow release will in fact cut Costs of fertilizing even if the CSR is more expensive. Lesco Truckster and all Lesco spreader are not the best on even distribution. Therefore I apply at half rate and cross hatch. I see Florida's Sandy soil as a prime target for CSR and Organic Topdressing to improve Hydraulic Conductivity and CEC. However selling the Idea of Top Dressing is a missionary sales job in my area.

BTW I am putting a guy in the Verticut Business. I have all the necessary equipment including aCab over and truck loader. he should be able to do some traveling if he has some work in your area. If you don't have a verticut hook up, give him a try. We have a 11hp Ryan that is self propelled and Walker bagger with Dethatch rake for final pick up.


PS. I ran into your Buddy Larry at the corner store yesterday. I had talked with him on the phone but had not seen him since before the Hurricanes. I sure you know by now he has changed jobs and is managing a branch office. He just returned from Vegas where he got certified in Mold. Mold Control is a big thing here since the Hurricane and he should do well.

[Phil Nilsson]

What, if any, is the proper amount of overlap when applying granular fertilizer?

A few inches ... but slow release granular is very "forgiving"

[ohreallythanks]

the hardest thing is being consistent with your pattern......