Uniformity of Seed and Fertilizer Distribution with A Hand-Operated Spinning Spreader

Abstract

ABSTRACT HAND-OPERATED spinner spreaders are widely used for seeding and fertilization of small fields, lawns, and gardens. However these spreaders can produce variable application rates depending on the operating procedure. The objectives of this study were to establish proper carrying positions and travel patterns for spinner spreaders such as those carried by an operator. The effective swath width for successive passes was calculated from variance of application rates at 0.6 m (2 ft) intervals. Widest swath width and uniform dis-tribution was achieved when the spreader was carried with the spinner directly in front of the operator and the crank slightly to the right. A nonuniform pattern resulted when the spreader was carries with the spinner to the left of the operator and the crank directly in front. Greatest spreading uniformity resulted from a perimeter travel with the left side of the pattern overlapping the right side of the preceding pass. Many small areas on farms and home lawns occasion-ally need fertilization and seeding. Broadcast spreading with hand-operated spinner units offers a convenient, rapid, economical method for coverage of irregular areas and around obstacles such as buildings and trees (Glover and Baird, 1973). An individual walking at 5 km/h can fertilize or seed at a rate of one hectare in 20 min. Actual coverage will depend on such factors as time for refills and turning. Hand-operated spinner units are less expensive and require less effort to operate than gravity flow applicators, especially on rough terrain. Procedures for operating manual-crank spreaders are not readily available in published reports or from operations manuals (Cunningham, 1963). Since highly variable distribution can occur, this paper describes how performance can be tested and improved. The principles would apply to other single spinner units, especially ones where the spinner is driven by a small electric motor.