Fertilizer application pre- and post-planting helps provide crops the essential nutrients they need to flourish. While there are pros and cons for both dry and liquid fertilizer application, most farmers consider their existing soil condition, the cost of the fertilizer, and what type of fertilizer is readily available before determining what will make the most sense for their operation.
To ensure crops remain protected throughout their lifecycle, the application of pesticides, herbicides, or fungicides may also be needed. Application of herbicides help control the growth of weeds that grow alongside the crop, which steals away water, nutrients, and sunlight. Pesticide spraying helps kill fungus, bacteria, insects, and plant diseases, while the application of insecticides specifically targets insects that can wreak havoc on a crop. Without these valuable protectants and the equipment that apply them, it is estimated that crop yields would be half their current levels.
Innovations in GPS, GIS, and machine-learning technology are helping increase the accuracy of chemical applications, allowing farmers to target the plant vs. the weed, to use less chemicals per acre. For example, the See & Spray™ Ultimate system from John Deere claims to help reduce non-residual herbicide use by more than two-thirds by target spraying weeds.
To find chemical applicator equipment for sale near you, trust Tractor Zoom to provide you with equipment from leading brands, including Ag-Chem, John Deere, Case IH, DMI, Hardi, Willmar, Terra-Gator, Spra-Coupe, RoGator, Top Air, Blu-Jet, Redball, Fast, Bestway, Hagie, and more. Additionally, we’re happy to provide you with additional chemical applicator equipment FAQs to make an empowered decision on your next chemical applicator purchase.