Five Tips for Granular Application
Farming operations across the northern US and Canada will soon be wrapping up harvest and turning to the next operation, fall granular application. Armed with these five tips, fall application should go much smoother.
Active Season
You will want to create a new season in the display as the 2017 crop is now complete. Creating a “2018 Crop” season before applying will keep your application data tied with the rest of the operations for the upcoming year.
Data Management
Keep all your application records up to date and safe with AgFiniti! If you’re using an InCommand display, simply download the free app and bring your iPad with you in the cab to have your application maps on the go. Also with AgFiniti you receive prescriptions in the field, share guidance lines and swath maps with other applicators in the field and more!
Product Setup
Make sure all the products and product mixes are entered in the display. Verify they are all in the correct – is very important, especially when using variable rate prescriptions. The controlling product needs to be selected properly when loading the configuration. For example, if you are applying DAP, you can select it to control in lbs of total DAP, lbs of Nitrogen, or lbs of Phosphorus. If you are running a straight target rate, this is up to the user. If you are running variable rate prescriptions, the controlling product must be the same as what the prescription is written for or product will be applied at an incorrect rate.
Equipment Prep
Before loading product into the spreader, inspect all the cabling for pinched or damaged wires. Inspect the encoders and modules for any damage as well as check for any blown fuses. Make sure the display is up to date on firmware. The most current version can be found on the Ag Leader Knowledgebase.
Product Calibrations
Each product will need to be calibrated. There are two calibration processes that need to be completed. The first one to be completed is a static calibration that is done just sitting still. The second one is an in-field calibration that will fine tune the static calibration. This is done while applying in the field. A complete description of the calibrations can be found in the display operator manual.
For questions or reference material on DirectCommand Granular Operation, the display manual and Ag Leader Knowledgebase are always available. Your local Ag Leader Dealer and Ag Leader Technical Support are also available options for any questions or troubleshooting concerns that may arise this season.