In order to achieve maximum yields and fertilizer effectiveness at a minimal cost, it is imperative to make sure that equipment is prepared through adjustment, calibration, maintenance, and other measures to ensure uniform application and distribution.

While this process may seem time-consuming, the consequences of disregarding it can be extremely costly.

A key element of a coulter fertilizer injection system is the coulter itself. Proper alignment to ensure tracking with the row should be checked. Depth settings along with positioning to the row are crucial elements to successful application.

If this process of adjusting the fertilizer coulter is neglected, there is increased potential for crop damage. If fertilizer is not properly distributed, it may have an excess of product too close to plant roots, causing burning and destruction resulting in lower yields. Again, the labor time involved in the maintenance of your coulter for proper placement is a small price to pay when one considers the potentially devastating yield loss that could result from not doing so.

When fertilizer is applied without taking precautions to prevent improper distribution, you are also leaving your crops vulnerable to a hit or miss application rate. This will have a negative effect on yields and the overall profitability of your operation.

In addition to these potential hazards, failure to assess the pounds or gallons per acre output of your coulter is likely to result in over or under application, which can be very costly. Using more fertilizer than is actually needed can cost thousands of dollars in just one growing season. Starving a crop is just as costly.

Conducting routine maintenance checks is also extremely important. Again, the time it takes to conduct such checks is completely worthwhile, as doing so may prevent a minor problem from becoming a very costly oversight. In the long run,
examining basic parts for wear, such as bearings, knives, blades, and bushings, can result in significant savings in terms of time and money.

Checking for obstructions or leaks is another integral step in this process. Leaks should be repaired immediately, and if you find an obstruction, clean all nozzles (using a tip brush) and strainers. Identify the amount of pressure required to provide your desired nozzle output. Once you have adjusted your system to the correct pressure, it will accurately deliver the proper application rate.

It is also important to assess the flow rate of a few randomly selected tips. If only one tip is not functioning at full capacity, simply replace it. If more than one tip is defective, however, it is wise to replace all of the tips on your system, as this is indicative of overall tip wear issues.