While many of us can still manually spread fertilizer on our grass or vegetable bed, using a fertilizer spreader is a more convenient way to do it.
A fertilizer spreader is farming and gardening equipment used to apply fertilizer to lawns, beds, and fields. Compared to the manual way of applying fertilizer, a fertilizer spreader applies the material much easier, faster, and more consistently.
Many fertilizer spreaders apply materials other than just fertilizer. Many models help distribute seeds, weed-killer granules, and even rock salt. Other models handle liquid fertilizers.
Fertilizer spreaders come either as a tractor attachment or as standalone equipment. They are readily available from the manufacturers themselves, through agricultural and gardening equipment stores, or through farming and landscaping equipment distributors, such as Solex Corporation.
Renting a fertilizer spreader is also possible, especially for people who have to apply fertilizer only once in a while and thus don't see the need to purchase it for this purpose.
So, how much material can a fertilizer spreader hold? Well, it depends on the model. There are rotary (or broadcast), spin, drop, and even handheld fertilizer spreaders (ideal for small yards and gardens). Some models can hold up to 100 lbs. (over 45 kilograms) of fertilizer, while larger models can hold even more.
In this article, Solex Corporation features four spin and broadcast fertilizer spreaders from Kasco/Herd:
2440-3PT Spin Spreader
The Herd model 2440-3PT Spin Spreader has a capacity of 32 bushels (or 2,440 lbs.) and will consistently spread seed, fertilizer, or lime. With its precision metering system, you can control the amount of seed from 3 pounds of seed per acre or up to 1000 pounds of fertilizer per acre. It also features hydraulic controls, allowing easy seed gate opening and closing from the tractor seat.
Other key features:
- Heavy-duty independent stand and carrying frame.
- 14-gauge steel hopper with full-welded seams and a good slant for self-cleaning.
- Rotating agitator for even feeding.
- Heavy cast-iron gearbox with tapered roller bearings and drop-forged gears and is filled with gear oil.
- The gearbox is standard for 540 RPM tractors (but can also be ordered for 1000 RPM tractors).
- Uniform spreads are up to 40 feet (but the width of the spread still depends on the weight of the material).
- Some assembly is required.
1200C-3PT Spin Spreader
The 1200 3PT Spin Spreader has a capacity of 16 bushels (or 1200 lbs) and 3‐point mounted broadcasters that allow you to seed anywhere your tractor can go, saving both time and money. Its precision metering system controls seeds from 3 pounds of seed per acre up to 1000 pounds of fertilizer per acre. It broadcasts seeds and fertilizer with no parts to change or modifications. The model 1200 is indeed a proven workhorse!
Other key features:
- Easy-adjust pattern control.
- Uniform spreads are up to 40 feet (but the width of spread still depends on the weight of the material).
- Rotating agitator and fan driven by heavy-duty gearbox and shielded PTO shaft.
- Heavy cast-iron gearbox with tapered roller bearings and drop-forged gears and is filled with gear oil.
- The gearbox is standard for 540 RPM tractors (but can also be ordered for 1000 RPM tractors).
- 14-gauge steel hopper with full-welded seams.
- Some assembly is required.
I-92 (or I-92 Electric Drive Broadcaster)
The I-92 is a higher-capacity electric broadcast seeder/spreader that distributes a wide variety of materials, from seed or fertilizer to insecticides or herbicides. The galvanized hopper is durable enough for years of trouble‐free use. The spinning agitator gives Herd's Sure‐Feed of material through the stainless-steel seed gate.
Key features:
- Durable galvanized hopper.
- Spinning agitator that gives Herd's Sure-Feed of material through the stainless-steel gate.
- The spread can be centered, and the metering ensures control of the amount of seed distributed.
- Mounting kits are available for many vehicles, including 3‐point hitch or UTVs.
- Ideal for front of the tractor, pick-up, Jeeps, etc. (DO NOT mount on ATVs).
M-12 (or M-12 PTO Drive Broadcaster)
The Herd model M‐12 PTO‐powered broadcast seeder/spreader makes quick work of big jobs. Its rugged mountings and galvanized hopper give years of quality performance. The spinning agitator spreads both seed and fertilizer consistently. Seed rates can be adjusted down to approximately 2 pounds per acre.
Other key features:
- Cat. I 3-point mount.
- Shielded telescoping PTO.
- Galvanized hopper with a 2.8-bushel (192-lb.) capacity.
- The spinning agitator spreads both fertilizer and seed evenly and consistently.
Fertilizer spreaders indeed serve many purposes other than applying fertilizers. These featured products on the market will help you find the one that will meet your planting and fertilizing needs.
For more info on our products, visit our website, www.solexcorp.com, call us at (707) 678-5533, or email us at sales@solexcorp.com.