PART 6 – FERTILIZER APPLICATION
Fertilizer can be applied in a solid, dry form or in a water carrier. A fertilizer spreader is essential for the uniform distribution of solid fertilizers. Factors to consider in selecting a fertilizer spreader include;
a.Uniformity of distribution
b.Application width
c.Range in rates and ease of adjustment
d.Hopper capacity
e.Hopper agitator
f.Ease of emptying and cleaning
g.Positive shutoff control
h.Tires or wheels of sufficient size and width to minimize soil compaction and rutting
SOLID APPLICATORS
Application of solid fertilizers by broadcasting is preferred to drill or row placement in terms of maximizing nutrient absorption by established turf. A number of different types of broadcast fertilizer applicators are available
a.Gravity drop-type
b.Centrifugal-type
The gravity-type spreader results in a very uniform application but covers a limited area. Centrifugal-type spreader covers a wider area more rapidly. This type of spreader tends to lack uniformity in distribution throughout the spreader width.
It is usually necessary to “water in” the water-soluble fertilizers immediately after application. “Watering in” minimises the probability of foliar burn by washing the fertilizer particles of the leaves. Foliar burn is greater when the applications are made to wet turf.
LIQUID APPLICATION
Nutrients can be applied by using a liquid carrier, which is usually water. This method of application permits flexibility in nutrient placement.
Foliar feeding is the application of a relatively small amount of nutrients using a limited volume of water so that the nutrients are absorbed directly by the above-ground shoot tissues. The concentration of nutrients that can be applied at any one time is limited in order to minimize the foliar burn potential.
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