By Lucia Weeks


Farming is not an easy task. There are external factors that could affect both quality and quantity of the harvests. Although most of these are beyond human control, there are means to maximize certain factors. Since time immemorial, manures are applied in natural farming to sustain the nutrients for the plants. Of course, with technological advancements come agricultural innovations as well.

The use of variable rate fertilizer spreader is among the most recent developments in agriculture. Farmers acknowledge that each plant has unique needs, especially in the type and amount of nutrients it requires. Thus, applying a fixed amount on all plants is both wrong and unwise. Nonetheless, manual application of fertilizers is a drag especially in a vast farm.

This dilemma is what the variable rate fertilization is trying to address. The VRF automated applicator is capable of determining the right quantity of fertilizers to be deposited in each plant. Aside from the spread pattern initially entered on the system, the spreader gathers real-time data through its sensors. The automation can also cover a wide area more quickly.

This innovation is ecologically beneficial because it decreases the possible impact to nature caused by excessive fertilizers. Applying too much chemicals can possibly contaminate ground water because of leaching, affect the soil's properties and diminish its nutrient contents. Such abuse will eventually cause adverse effect on future harvests.

For the farmers, this also means maximizing profitability. There are no fertilizers wasted because the plants get just the right amount it needs. According to research, farmers can save up to 40 percent of fertilizers immediately on the first use of the spreader. This means saving thousands of unnecessary expenses. Less fertilizer per acre also means less fuel costs.

Hence, return of investment is pretty sure. Not only can the farmers reduce their expenses considerably, but they also take advantage of present field conditions. With this, they can expect significant improvement in their crops' quality. This also results in a more consistent growth pattern, which can be beneficial a few years down the line.

A typical example of an automated applicator consists of a 3-ton spreader and optical sensors on the side. These sensors gather all variables that must be considered in determining the quantity and spread pattern. Such variables may be spatial, predictive or temporal.

Predictive variables can be expected with the use of historical, such as the yield and weather. Temporal variables, on the other hand, are the most unstable and constantly changing. Examples are growth change and seasonal changes. Spatial variables focus on the soil's composition, like the presence of pests and potential diseases, crop growth and the ground's pH value.

The use of variable rate spreader is definitely beneficial to farmers. As a matter of fact, more and more citrus growers are starting to adapt. If you decided to get your own applicator, you must bear in mind that a one size fits all equipment cannot optimize its function. You can customize the spreader to perfectly fit your needs. Some of the most common types are truck spreaders, row crop spreader and self-propelled spreaders among others.




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