Application Rates, Factors Affecting

The quantity of material applied using a spreader (fertiliser or grass seed in particular) can and will vary according to a range of factors, including:
• The forward speed at which the spreader is being used. A faster forward speed will reduce the quantity applied.
• The size of the aperture setting into which material passes. A large aperture will allow for a greater flow of material.
• The type and size of the material, with finer material typically having a higher bulk density than coarser material.
• The condition of the material. Dry material is freer flowing than damp material, so ensuring materials are dry is essential in contributing to being able to deliver a more even and accurate application.
• The height of the spreader distributor from the ground. If this is relatively high, then there is greater chance than material may not be as evenly spread as a lower height spreader, especially if weather conditions are slightly windy, yet still acceptable for spreading fertiliser or seed.
• Weather conditions. The density of any material can be affected by different wind conditions, resulting in an uneven distribution taking place. Light and small grass seed, such as Agrostis species, will be more easily affected by a light to medium wind than a medium sized granular fertiliser.
• Ground conditions, especially if the ground is relatively uneven, with small hole or depressions (e.g. rabbit scrapes), if the surface is wet (which can result in clumping of applied material), or if the grass is too long, where the material doesn’t distribute evenly within the sward.