Skip to main content Skip to footer

Launch of fertiliser applicator with front hopper for band-feeding OSR with solid nitrogen fertiliser


At the Cereals Event, OPICO is launching the Nitro-band – a solid fertiliser applicator with a 1230 litre front hopper for distributing fertiliser down the rows when band-seeding oilseed rape. This latest addition to OPICO’s min-till equipment allows cultivation, seeding and feeding to take place in just one pass, saving time and money and improving crop establishment and yield potential.

OPICO’s MD James Woolway explains: “The launch of the Nitro-band solid fertiliser applicator follows the success of the Nitrojet liquid fertiliser applicator launched two years ago.

“Trials and farm experience have proven that OSR crops benefit from a kick-start of fertiliser at the same time as cultivation and seeding. Where crops are sown in bands via min-till cultivation techniques, then precision placement of fertiliser next to the seed will ensure the nutrients are used more efficiently. Ultimately, till-feeding at the same time as till-seeding will save time, boost crop establishment, and allow savings in nitrogen rates and/or higher crop yields.

“With the launch of the Nitro-band, farms which prefer to use solid fertiliser rather than liquid versions, can now also take advantage of till-feeding to improve OSR crop margins.”

The Nitro-band unit is sited on the front of the tractor, and mechanically driven with an infinitely variable application rate via a variator gearbox. It has a hopper capacity of 1230 litres, and a five-outlet model costs £11,563 + VAT (Price for 12/June/2012).  A Nitro-band model is also available on which the variable rate is electronically controlled from the tractor cab, allowing the operator to adjust fertiliser application rates when on the move.


Opico Company News

Cookie Notice

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.
Find out more here.