A fertilizer spreader is a device used to apply a uniform, well-tossed coating of fertilizer to the ground. There are different models and sizes, ranging from small, hand-pushed types to larger ones pulled behind tractors.

The device was invented to solve two problems. The first problem is that when fertilizer is simply applied by hand, it is very difficult to regulate the coating’s evenness, which means that some areas may get more fertilizer than they need while others get less. The second problem is that fertilizer needs to be aerated or tossed when it is applied to ensure that the individual particles of moto mower are separated and their full surface area becomes exposed.

Some spreaders work by gravity. And a container of fertilizer with holes or a screen in the bottom is rolled or dragged over the ground. As the device moves, the fertilizer shakes out through the holes, which causes it to be tossed and scattered on the ground in an even coat. Spreaders that use this principal generally only cover a narrow row, which means that several passes may be required to adequately cover an area.

Others work by the rotary principal, in which the container of fertilizer spins as the device moves. The spinning motion throws the fertilizer in a wide circle, allowing the device to lay down wider rows. However, as the mechanism is slightly more complex and expensive than a simple gravity-operated device, rotary tillers will probably never completely replace gravity-operated ones.

Many spreaders are multi-purpose and can be used for either fertilizer or seed. Since both processes require the scattering of tiny objects in regular patterns, it is only logical that the same device could be used to replace each other. Farmers and gardeners like this, of course, because it allows them to do both their sowing and fertilizing with a single piece of equipment.

This is one of those small, humble advances that have literally revolutionized food production. It allows fertilizer to be used to its full potential, giving maximum germination and yield. In today’s world, anything that permits people to grow more agricultural products with fewer resources is a good thing.