Application of granular type pesticides, fertilizers, and grass seed is most commonly done using either a drop spreader or a rotary spreader. The drop spreader distributes product straight down on the ground with a coverage pattern only as wide as the spreader hopper. Compared to a rotary spreader, application time is increased with a drop spreader and makes it difficult to get even coverage. If a slight bit of overlap of each pass is not accomplished the edge of the spread lines will show. If you have ever seen a lawn that looks like it has broad darker stripes and narrow lighter stripes it usually means that a nitrogen rich fertilizer was applied with a drop spreader.
Rotary spreaders have a spreading spinner under the hopper which broadcasts the product being used six feet across and three feet forward. Less time is needed for application and there is no concern with “edge of spread lines” showing.
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Speaking of fertilizing growing things.... I know it's too late for my pitiful daffodils but wonder what I should apply to my day lilies and other flowers so they will have lots of blooms this year. I would appreciate reading some good hints.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the question. See the next blog entry.
ReplyDeleteWhile I agree about the potential for "striping" when using a drop spreader, it is a better tool for accurate application of a "weed-n-feed" to the lawn around flower/vegetable beds. If using a rotary spreader, be prepared to hose off any granules immediately that my have landed near desireable plantings!
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