More crop and vegetable farmers are turning to foliar fertilizer applications as a way to increase efficiency and save money. With pressure from governments to reduce fertilizer usage and escalating costs due to global conflicts, farmers are seeking alternative methods to meet the growing demand for food. Ongoing research and technology development are providing solutions that address both the need for increased food production and the need to reduce fertilizer usage.
Traditionally, granular fertilizer has been the go-to product for crop growth. However, farmers are now exploring the use of liquid fertilizer to improve efficiency and reduce costs. New Zealand-based company Metalform has developed a range of liquid fertilizer spreaders that dissolve granular fertilizer, allowing farmers to save money. Metalform has been involved in fertilizer applications since the 1970s and has noticed a trend among New Zealand farms towards fine particle fertilizer application.
Metalform recognized the efficiency of fine particulates compared to large granules and developed a tool that dissolves urea in cold water quickly. This foliar application of nitrogen has a higher nitrogen response efficiency (NRE) compared to granular fertilizer. Customers have reported a reduction in nitrogen use of up to 50% without compromising dry matter growth. Metalform’s machines can hold insoluble fine particle products in suspension and apply them without any blockages or issues. They can also mix multiple products simultaneously, reducing the number of application passes required.
The technology developed by Metalform is not only beneficial for crop farmers but also for vegetable growers. In Australia, farmers are using Metalform’s machines to apply gypsum prior to planting. The company also offers a horticulture version for applying fertilizer and nutrients to the soil under trees in orchards and vineyards.
Metalform’s Tow and Fert range includes five machines, with the largest model being the Multi 4000. This machine has a capacity of 4,000 liters and can cover one hectare in just three minutes. It can hold up to five tonnes of fertilizer and has a spread width of up to 24 meters. The machines have been imported and distributed in Europe by FuturAg since 2016, with increasing interest and positive results reported by farmers.
Farmers who have used Metalform’s machines have seen significant cost savings on fertilizer. Dairy farmer Rob Davies from Wales reported a return on investment in less than 18 months, with a 40% reduction in fertilizer usage. Dairy farmer Miah Smith from New Zealand also saw a halving of fertilizer costs in the first year while maintaining grass production.
Metalform’s ethos is centered around helping farmers meet their nutrient budgets by reducing fertilizer loss into the environment, minimizing fertilizer requirements, and saving money. Their machines are designed to be efficient, easy to use, and capable of meeting the needs of farmers in various agricultural sectors.
As the demand for food continues to rise, it is crucial for farmers to find ways to increase efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. Metalform’s liquid fertilizer spreaders offer a promising solution, allowing farmers to save money on fertilizer costs and reduce their overall usage. With ongoing research and technological advancements, the agriculture industry can strike a balance between food production and sustainable fertilizer practices.