New Techneat Nutri-Start LQ gets autumn OSR fertiliser spot on
A new liquid fertiliser applicator for min-till established oilseed rape will help growers to get crops off to a fast start and well established before the rigours of winter. The Nutri-Start LQ from Techneat Engineering can incorporate the company’s renowned GPS controllers and accurate metering units to assure precise placement of nutrients just where they are required for establishing seedlings.
Coupled with a seeding unit on a subsoiler or cultivation tool, the system provides an extremely effective, low-cost, establishment route. The Nutri-Start LQ features a 400, 600 or 800-litre implement mounted fertiliser tank, or a 1000-litre tank mounted on the front of the tractor.
The well-proven Techneat Variable Rate Controller automatically regulates consistent metering of liquid fertiliser to an outlet manifold. Standard manifolds are designed to precision feed spray nozzle or dribble bar applications on 5, 7, 9 or 11 leg seeding units, but can be custom manufactured to match any cultivator or drill outlet combination. The automatic controllers can be governed by landwheel, radar or GPS speed sensing.
The Nutri-Start LQ can be fully integrated with the company’s TerraCast V2 seeding unit and utilise the same GPS signal, to simultaneously govern the metering units of both machines. The Nutri-Start LQ can also be coupled to any other seeding units, such as Opico or Stocks, to create a complete system at significantly lower cost.
James English of Techneat Engineering highlights that efficient use of expensive fertiliser inputs is more important than ever, especially with further restrictions on autumn nitrogen applications in the extended areas of Nitrate Vulnerable Zones. "Placing readily available liquid fertiliser in a band with the seed - directly where the small root systems of seedlings can take full advantage - ensures optimum uptake and reduced risk of environmental loss.
"Extensive grower trials with the Nutri-Start LQ last autumn demonstrated the importance of getting crops off to a good start before the hard winter. Rapid establishment and healthy growth can minimise damage by pigeons and slugs, as well as outgrowing early autumn disease infection," he advises.
Band application of fertiliser can typically reduce fertiliser waste by more than 60%, compared to overall application, he adds. "That gives potential for significant cost savings and enhanced crop performance from better targeted application, as well as reduced risk of nutrient loss to the environment."
Mr English reports that liquid fertiliser inputs can be tailored with nutrients and trace elements to the immediate needs of the crop in the autumn which, combined with the soil benefits of min-till establishment, leads to stronger root development and the potential for higher yielding crops.
The Nutri-Start LQ could also be adapted for precision band fertiliser application with vegetable drills and maize crop establishment.
The Nutri-Start LQ adds to the range of Techneat crop establishment fertiliser equipment, including Nutri-Start GR for the granular fertiliser and the MicroCast micro-granular fertiliser applicator. The company has well-established experience in both granular and liquid fertiliser application, with the Placement Pro widely used by potato growers.
Prices for the Nutri-Start LQ start from just £3950. Mounting kits are available for most leading manufacturers of subsoilers and cultivators or can be custom-built.
