Choosing a fertiliser spreader is one of the most important investment decisions on a cereal farm. A good machine ensures even spreading across the full working width, which directly affects yields and fertilising costs.
The basic question is: twin-disc spreader or pendulum? Tow-behind twin-disc spreaders, such as the Güstrower GDK, offer a wide working width and even spreading of a broad range of materials, from lime to granular fertilisers. Pendulum spreaders are simpler in design and cheaper, but have a narrower working width and are less versatile. If the machine is also to spread lime, the selection rules are different, and we have described them separately: lime spreader — which to choose.
Key parameters to compare: working width (should match the sprayer width), hopper capacity (the larger, the fewer passes), compatibility with ISOBUS (allows control from the tractor terminal and automatic application maps for VRA), and dead weight (affects the tractor power required).
GPS Section Control is a function that automatically switches off the spreader sections at headlands, wedge-shaped areas and overlaps. It can save 5–12% of fertiliser per year, which pays back within the first season given current fertiliser prices. Spare parts for these spreaders, with assembly drawings, can be found in the Güstrower GDK parts catalogue.