The self-propelled spreader is an agricultural machine with an engine, developed for fertilizer broadcasting with maximum precision, uniformity, and high yields.
It’s equipped with on-board technologies and resources that make the operator’s job easier. The self-propelled spreader stands out especially in grain crops that demand agility and care in the handling of agricultural inputs.
In this article, you’ll learn how to apply fertilizers correctly, avoid the most common mistakes and understand how the Stara agricultural technology can transform the results in your crop field.
Precise application of fertilizers
The proper fertilization starts before the crop field application. It involves planning, the correct choice of inputs, and especially, the definition of the best agricultural technology to ensure application uniformity.
In agricultural operations, where each square meter impacts on the result of the harvest, using self-propelled spreaders have consolidated as a technical and safe decision.
These agricultural machines gather autonomy, agility and on-board intelligence so that the operator can apply with high operating yield and minimum waste.
The focus goes beyond the load capacity: it’s about reaching consistence in the metering per hectare, even on bumpy terrains, tall crops, or variable weather conditions and different types of soil.
Advantages of the fertilization technology
Using fertilizers represents one of the greatest slices in the crop production costs. For this reason, each application needs to be precise, traceable, and adapted to each field needs.
This is where the technical advantages of the self-propelled spreaders stand out, as they gather mechanical robustness with precision agriculture resources.
When allowing adjustment in real time, optimized calibration and automated adjustment of the application range, this type of agricultural machines transforms fertilization in a strategic process. Less waste caused by overlap or failures and higher efficiency in the usage of inputs.
How to apply fertilizers using a self-propelled spreader?
Applying fertilizers using a self-propelled spreader requires some cautions to ensure maximum efficiency. See the main practical recommendations:
1. Perform the correct product calibration
The first step is to set the fertilizer meter to be applied (kg/ha). This decision should be made by asking the agronomic engineer’s advice. This information is entered on the machine agricultural controller. Then, perform the practical calibration, which consists of:
- Activating the conveyor belt to release some fertilizer amount;
- Collect and weigh the material;
- Enter the weight on the agricultural controller (Topper 5500), which calculates the calibration factor.
2. Adjust the vanes of the spinner disks
Each type of fertilizer features a different performance. for this reason, it’s essential to adjust the position of the vanes on the spinner disks to ensure the correct and uniform application range.
Thanks to the Stara Spreading Application, the agricultural machine operator finds the best adjustment for the fertilizer type and desired application width, minimizing the coefficient of variation.
3. Check the adjustment of the conveyor belt
The conveyor belt needs to be adjusted according to the granulometry and volume of fertilizer. A poorly adjusted conveyor belt can impair the entire application.
Learn more: see how to use the fertilizer spreader for soil preparation
The Topper “Follow me” function: Four advantages
The Stara agricultural controller Topper 5500 features the “Follow me” function that works as a guide during the calibration process. When activating this function, the operator is instructed step-by-step, without the need to do some manual math.
This automation:
- Reduces setting errors;
- Increases operating safety;
- Speeds up the beginning of the application;
- Ensures more spreading quality.
Stara self-propelled spreaders: leadership and innovation
Stara was a pioneer in the development of the self-propelled spreader in Brazil. With the Hércules line, the brand established its leadership in the segment, gathering robustness, precision, and state-of-the-art technology.
Hércules line agricultural spreaders: get to know the models
Hércules 4.0: a capacity of 4,000 kg (4 m³), Cummins® engine with 220 cv, high performance and excellent application range:
Hércules 6.0: a capacity of 6,000 kg (6 m³), MWM engine with 220 cv, operating autonomy and superior performance.
Both models feature:
- Active pneumatic suspension;
- Spreading with a variable rate;
- Equipped with on-board scale for real-time control;
- On-board Stara technologies and connectivity with Telemetry.
Conclusion
Using a self-propelled spreader in your crop field is synonym with yield increase, fertilization efficiency and less loss - especially in fertilizer application.
Thanks to the Hércules 4.0 and Hércules 6.0 models, Stara provides the farmer with the most advanced agricultural technology, comfort, and performance in the field.
Did you like the hints and want to find out the agricultural machine that best suits your crop field?
Stop by a Stara Dealer and find the most suitable equipment to boost your crop production. Request a quotation.
