What do use to spread lime in my fields?

I have about 1.5-2 acres to lime (I’m supposed to lime 1.5 tons per acre.)

I have a zero-turn mower I can tow something with. What do you all suggest? The less expensive the better - I don’t even know how often I’m going to use it. Will have to do nitrogen later in the year though.

Something like this:

https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/chapin-150-lb-auto-stop-tow-behind-speader-8620b-1342501

It’ll take awhile and you’ll have to refill frequently, but it’ll get the job done and not wreck your zero turn.

Good chance you can find one on FB marketplace or Craigslist.

In some areas, the feed store or co-op will either spread for you, or rent the equipment. I’ve never lived in a place like that, though :joy:

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We have farm stores that offer agronomy services, but if you have 10’ or 12’ gates, their equipment will not fit unless you tear out fencing. You may be able to contact a landscaping company that does athletic fields and parks for smaller farm jobs.

Otherwise that little tagalong spreader should get the job done.

Will you be using pelletized lime that comes in 40 pound bags?

A few months ago I spread pelletized lime with the amount calculated from a formula from my state’s agricultural university and based on soil analysis, and it worked out to be 100 bags. Having loaded 100 bags into my tractor three point cone spreader several times before, I decided to hire a guy to open the bags and lift and pour the pellets into the hopper. It really sped up the process, and spared my back. It was money well spent.

That’s what we used last time and my husband’s back. OP, is there anyone around with a tractor and spreader?

I don’t see how with a zero turn mower you can get this done.

Your USDA extension office might have a free loaner available, they often do for various stuff like fertilizer spreaders and planters/seed drills. I borrowed a seed drill last year and it was really nice not to have to buy or rent something!

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If you have a tow vehicle, there may be a farm supplier near you that will loan/rent you a tow behind spreader already filled with lime that you tow home and spread yourself. I’ve not done this but my farrier tells me he does this regularly, This may be more than you need for your small acreage though.