Volatile fertiliser prices could drive increased interest in boom spreaders, reckons Kuhn, given their ability to apply lower-quality products accurately in windy conditions.

The company recently launched the Rauch-built Aero 32.1, giving buyers a mounted alternative to the high-capacity, trailed Aero GT 60.1.

See also: 7 low-cost fertiliser spreaders for smaller farms

Though smaller versions are promised, the range currently comprises 27m, 28m and 30m boom options, all armed with 24 outlets.

These are split into groups of six, each of which is fed by its own hydraulic metering unit to form four sections that can be automatically turned on/off or tweaked to apply different rates across the working width.

Options include “distance control”, which uses two ultrasonic sensors to maintain boom height, and a fine metering roller to spread slug pellets, microgranules and small cover crop seeds.

The booms can be lifted into a V-formation when turning on the headland and are hydraulically folded behind the 3,200-litre, weigh cell-equipped hopper for road transport.

They also come with a break-back system to protect them should they unexpectedly acquaint themselves with a rogue telegraph pole – the obvious peril of boom spreaders compared with their spinning disc equivalents.