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Abstract
Distribution patterns from application of aerial and granulated superphosphate from altitudes of 75, 100, 200, and 400 ft were measured in the presence and absence of cross winds. Distribution of cocksfoot and white clover seed mixed with the fertiliser was also studied.
Results show narrower distribution from granulated superphosphate than from aerial superphosphate. Increases in altitude resulted in increased width of distribution of fertiliser and seed.
When distributions were overlapped at intervals of 30 ft very high levels of efficiency of fertiliser use in terms of pasture response were obtained. The level of efficiency declined as swath spacings were increased from 30 to 66 ft. There was no increase in efficiency of fertiliser use with altitude of application above 100 ft except where swaths were spaced at 66 ft intervals. Application of granulated in place of aerial superphosphate did not alter the efficiency of fertiliser use.
Swath placement (a measure of pilot accuracy) was considerably better when fertiliser and seed were applied from altitudes of 100 ft or less.
Seed distribution was narrower than fertiliser distribution, and white clover seed distribution narrower than that of cocksfoot seed. Because of seed's narrower distribution and its variable degree of segregation from fertiliser, it should be applied separately through special equipment.