November 8, 2024 by Lely Turf | 
Precision is crucial when applying fertilizers for professional turf managers. Whether you manage a golf course, sports turf, or commercial grounds, the Lely broadcast spreader is known for its accuracy, reliability and performance.
One of the most common questions we get about our commercial turf spreaders revolve around dialing in the settings. Lely Turf understands how getting the settings right is essential to avoid common issues like striping or uneven growth. Below is a step-by-step guide on setting and adjusting your Lely spreader to achieve optimal turf health.
1. Understanding Your Fertilizer Type
Before you begin, identify the type of fertilizer you'll be using. Whether it’s a coarse, medium, or fine granular fertilizer will impact the spreader settings. This distinction is crucial for consistent application.
2. Using the Lely Output Chart
Refer to your Lely owner's manual for your specific spreader, which you can find on its specific product page. Each manual contains an output chart to help you select the appropriate settings based on fertilizer type, desired application rate, and speed. For example, if you're applying coarse granular fertilizer at 55 pounds per acre and plan to move at four miles per hour, the manual recommends setting the output to level 3.
3. Setting the Output Level
To adjust the output level:
4. Centering the Fertilizer Output
Centering the output prevents striping by ensuring even distribution. For the same 55-pound-per-acre rate with coarse granules, the manual suggests positioning the feed mechanism at hole number 3. Push down on the mechanism and slide it to the correct position, which will align the release point on the ejector disk to keep the output centered.
If you notice uneven spreading, adjust slightly to ensure a centered distribution behind the spreader.
5. Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you see striping or notice some areas of turf growing faster than others, the spreader may need a slight adjustment to the release position. Making these adjustments minimizes over-fertilization and keeps your turf looking even.
6. Lely Support
If at any point in the process you require assistance, Lely Turf is standing by ready to provide expert assistance to help you dial in your spreader settings. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have. We also offer a calibration tool on our website, to help you make quick adjustments when you’re out in the field.
Conclusion
Following these setup steps will help you achieve consistent, even fertilization with your Lely broadcast spreader. Regular calibration and careful attention to detail with your Lely commercial broadcast spreader can make a big difference in your turf quality.