Facts To Know Concerning A Lime Spreader

Some people think that lime is some kind of fertilizer, but that is not true. It is better if it is thought as a soil conditioner. The main reason it is applied in soil is to correct soil acidity. Besides correcting soil acidity, it may regulate the concentration of zinc, copper, magnesium, calcium, some bacteria, and phosphorus. The substance may be applied using hand on small pieces of land. On large tracts however, a lime spreader is necessary.

Most spreaders need to be attached onto haulers like trucks or animals such as horses and donkeys. Small spreaders can be pulled or pushed by hand. Depending on size, they may have single or double pairs of wheels. Since they are very heavy, a trail of wheel prints is left behind wherever they pass. For this reason, they need to be used on empty pieces of land that does not have crops on it. They can damage young plants very much.

Spreaders have varying volumes. Bigger commercial makes can hold tons of lime whilst small models only accommodate a handful. Unless the device is for leasing, the volume chosen should depend on size of lawn or farm and frequency of utilization. The bins which accommodate the conditioner may be constructed of alloys, metals, plastics, or timber at times. Choosing the material of the bin should be done carefully because lime corrodes some materials.

Various models release the pellets in different ways. In some models, the pellets are released continuously while in others they do so at certain controllable intervals. The mode of spreading used by the machine is indicated in the manual that come with it. Normally this rate is adjustable in those that emit pellets at intervals. Experts advise that the conditioner should be applied at intervals. The interval of application should depend on the degree of acidity of soil.

Latest models comprise of more than one bin. They also can be used for multiple purposes such as applying fertilizer and other soil additives. Normally one bin can hold the lime while the others hold different substances. Application can also occur at the same time. This is advantageous because it saves a lot on fuel for driving the howler around the land applying different additives. Large scale farmers find this feature very important.

When purchasing spreaders, one should consider the method and point of connection. Issues may come in during connecting since the hinges may not be completely compatible. To avoid pouring of contents carried by the spreader, one should consider the shape of the bin. Calibrated containers provide a way of measuring the quantity of lime used.

Additional accessories like rear lights and spare tires are worth considering. Most producers incorporate the latest technology like hydraulic spinner systems to put their products at the top on the market. Since rusting is most likely to result because of the moist and humid working environment, choosing commodities made of stainless steel would be better.

The price may be a challenging matter too. If one is not sure about the cost, it would be better to compare among various manufacturers. A combination of cost and features that proves to be the best is the one to settle for.