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Turf Pros #1 Top dresser
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Choosing an Appropriate Substrate
1. Quality and Characteristics
It is very important to choose a high-quality topdressing substrate. For greatest cost efficiency,
Ecolawn recommends using a bulk substrate which is friable, has a moisture content lower than
65%, and contains no inorganic matter
(plastic, glass, or concrete, etc.) or raw organic matter (such as
pieces of wood, raw manure).
2. Friability
A friable material is one that crumbles easily into small fragments. A substrate that is not very friable
appears to be composed of numerous, compact pieces which do not readily break down. Screening a
substrate makes it much more friable. Additionally, a substrate containing 10% sand is more friable and will
flow more smoothly and efficiently through the applicator.
3. Moisture Content
A substrate with a moisture content greater than 65% will tend to stick to the inside walls of the hopper and
other parts of the spreader. When working with a substrate with a high moisture content, coat the insides of
the hopper, as well as the spreading disk, with a lubricant.
To help the substrate flow freely from the hopper, stop the machine and loosen with shovel. This will loosen
the substrate so that it can flow freely from the hopper.
