When calibrating a rotary spreader, is it important to check both the application rate and the pattern?

When calibrating a rotary spreader, is it important to check both the application rate and the pattern?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Sometimes

Answer: (A)

Calibrating a rotary spreader means making sure you deliver the exact amount of product the label calls for while also distributing it evenly across the target area. Both parts matter because they work together to achieve uniform coverage and the correct rate. If the rate is correct but the pattern is off, some areas will be under- or over-treated. If the pattern looks good but the rate is off, you’ll either waste product or fail to meet the label’s rate, risking turf injury or environmental impact. Therefore, you should verify both aspects during calibration: measure the actual application rate over a known area and assess the swath width and distribution for uniformity at typical speed and settings.

Calibrating a rotary spreader means making sure you deliver the exact amount of product the label calls for while also distributing it evenly across the target area. Both parts matter because they work together to achieve uniform coverage and the correct rate. If the rate is correct but the pattern is off, some areas will be under- or over-treated. If the pattern looks good but the rate is off, you’ll either waste product or fail to meet the label’s rate, risking turf injury or environmental impact. Therefore, you should verify both aspects during calibration: measure the actual application rate over a known area and assess the swath width and distribution for uniformity at typical speed and settings.