Fertilizer Rate Check

The fertilizer tables were drawn up based on NPK pellet fertilizer, with good granulation, the formula of 05-20-20 and a specific weight of 1000 kg/m³.

For mixed fertilizers with a granulation approaching powder, the fertilizer quantities (kg) per hectare can be increased by approximately 20%.

Given that the metering mechanism for the fertilizer measures volume and not weight and due to the difference that exists between fertilizer brands and formulas, the measured weight may vary in comparison to that calculated through the table.

For this reason, it is important that the value calculated using the table is checked before starting to plant. To perform this, proceed as follows:

• Remove a hose from one of the fertilizer boxes and put a plastic bag in its place.
• Drive the planter over a distance of 50 m.
• Remove the plastic bag and weigh it.
• Multiply the weight in kg by the value from the table below, defined by the spacing between rows. The result will be the fertilizer weight spread per hectare.

With this figure, consult the table corresponding to the type of fertilizer metering auger that your planter is equipped with and select the pair of gears that provide a greater or lesser quantity, as required.

Repeat the test as many times as necessary, until the correct value is obtained.

Spacing between rows	40 cm	45 cm	50 cm	70 cm	80 cm	90 cm
Multiply by	500	444	400	286	250	222