Q: How do I get my Yard Feeder set at 1 tbs. /gal?
A: Use a flow inducer. It is calibrated at that rate. If you don't have a Flow Inducer, and you are using EnviroYard it is very easy. Set the ball valve so the pH of the fertilized water coming out of your emitters or sprinklers is at 3.4pH. We are assuming your water supply is between 7.1pH and 8.2pH. If you need a pH meter see the links on this page.

If you aren't using a carbon based fertilizer such as EnviroYard then:
1) Never use more fertilizer than the manufacturer’s recommendations for treating the area (sq. ft.).
2) Watch your tank through the sight glass and adjust to your desired rate. I.e. if your sight glass is 1/4 of the way down in one week you know you have approximately a four week service cycle (this really only applies when using fertilizers such as Miracle Grow where there is clear separation between water and fertilizer). With most organics you can use the sight glass to observe the color/concentration. If you want ‘ppm’ you will need a ppm meter to test.

Q: What happens if my tank run time won’t make it through my clock?
A: Simply allocate a program on your clock for when you fertilize. Some clock manufacturers are already doing this as fertigation becomes more widespread. You can also run through your valves manually. Sprinklers will require less time than drip emitters.

Q: Isn’t it bad to put fertilizer down at such a fast rate?
A: Dry broadcast is exactly that. You use what you need for the area and no more. Think of the tank as an auto-spreader that handles all of your micro irrigation as well. We strongly advocate the use of Organic or all natural fertilizer. Those types of fertilizers need to be put down rapidly because they are biological in nature. We have found that all of the different enzymes, microbes, bacteria, and so on work best when applied quickly. All of you Organic fertilizer manufacturers out there can breathe a sigh of relief. It isn’t your product not working it is the tank. Give us a try; the Yard Feeder will showcase your products’ true potential! next