You know that even getting coverage is not easy if you’ve ever applied grass seed or granulated fertilizer by hand. This is especially true if you have a large yard and a lot of ground to cover.
That can be modified by a broadcast spreader. The best broadcast spreader enables you to spread grass seed, granular fertilizer, and even ice-melting pellets evenly, rapidly, and easily. They make it so much easier to look after your lawn, in any season.
What is a Broadcast Spreader?
A broadcast spreader is used uniformly over a wide area to spread seeds, granular fertilizergranular fertilizergranular fertilizergranular fertilizer, or ice-melting pellets. There are a variety of forms to remember, but all function the same way.
Every spreader has a hopper that you fill with the material that you’ll spread. A disc spins and fins within allow a calculated amount of the material to escape the hopper and scatter across your lawn.
There are three specific forms of diffusion spreaders. Tow spreaders are equipped to mount to tractors or ATVs for wider areas. They hold a large amount of stuff, so the hopper doesn’t have to pause and refill often.
Walk-behind spreaders for medium-sized lawns are a smart option. They are built to be driven around and have big, rough wheels. The smallest are chest-mounted spreaderschest-mounted spreaderschest-mounted spreaderschest-mounted spreaders. Crank the handle to transform the internal disc as you move around, losing the materials.
Broadcast Spreader vs. Drop Spreader
Broadcast spreaders and drop spreaders look a lot alike, and while they are similar, there are a lot of differences between them.
Drop Spreader
A drop spreaderdrop spreaderdrop spreaderdrop spreader close to the handle as a rectangular hopper, and a lever. As you drive the spreader across your yard, when you wish to drop the product, you engage the handle.
One of the advantages of drop spreaders is their accuracy. No product is wasted and you can put it exactly where you need it. Drop spreaders are good for small areas, especially narrow grass tracts where there is not much space for a manoeuvre.
The downside to a drop spreader is that it’s pretty thin, so very often you have to refill it. If you have a wide yard, they are also not the best option, since it takes a lot of time to use one to cover a large field.
Broadcast Spreader
Broadcast spreaders are built to rapidly cover a wide area and disperse the fertilizer or seed in a fan-like manner.
They carry a lot more items than drop spreaders, so they don’t need to be refilled often, and if you have a tow spreader, you can cover acres of land in no time.
The biggest problem with broadcast spreaders is they can be very messy. It’s quick to get it on your driveway or the sidewalk because they’re spreading the lawn product too far. They are not quite as precise, but in pace, they make up for it.
Many broadcast spreaders are easy to change and some even have edging systems in place so you can block half the spreader when you are near an area where you don’t want to spread the product.
Best Broadcast Spreader
If you’re looking for the right broadcast spreader for your lawn, we found 10 of the best models out there. We included a few different types so you’re sure to find one to suit your needs.
1. Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Broadcast Spreader
A great option for applying either grass seed or fertiliser is this large-capacity broadcast spreader from Scottsbroadcast spreader from Scottsbroadcast spreader from Scottsbroadcast spreader from Scotts. It carries enough lawn items from Scotts to cover 15,000 square feet and also offers coverage where you need it.
The control panel adjusts for precision and consistency so that you can be sure that the correct amount of product is applied. Simply use the settings on your grass seed packaging or granular fertilizer. It comes configured and ready to use without any necessary assembly.
We love the Edgeguard technology which blocks off the sprayer’s right side to prevent the product from getting on your driveway or other non-lawn areas. It is quick to use this walk-behind spreader and lets you cover a wide area in no time. When you have a yard over 5,000 square feet, it’s one of the best.
2. Agri-Fab 45-0462 Push Broadcast Spreader
The heavy-duty push transmission spreader from Agri-FabAgri-FabAgri-FabAgri-Fab is designed to cover areas as wide as 25,000 square feet evenly. It’s the perfect option for large jobs with a 130-pound capacity when you don’t want to have to keep stopping to refill the hopper.
Spread width of 12 feet covers a lot of ground, easy, and there is an adjustable flow stop so that you can be sure that only what you need is spread. As you walk around your yard, the steel rod flow control helps you to open or close the spreader, and the pneumatic tires are perfect for manoeuvring over any surface.
Besides the rustproof stuff, this spreader also features an enclosed taper and an aluminum bevelled gearbox designed to last. It’s also covered by a three-year warranty.
3. Earthway 2150 Commercial 50-Pound Walk-Behind Broadcast Spreader
This Earthway machineEarthway machineEarthway machineEarthway machine has a three-hole drop shut-off system that feathers the edges for more accurate applications to ensure it spreads evenly. You can change it to fit for narrow parts of your lawn without thinking on your driveway about getting fertilizer or seed.
There is a debris barrier that prevents clumps from accessing the machine and a fully enclosed gearbox that is built to be almost impossible to block, even if it is damp or wet outside. Plus, for protection against the weather, the frame and T-bar handle is coated in epoxy.
This spreader has a wide-set frame and pneumatic tires so it’s easy to drive it through uneven terrain. It also has an adjustable handle, so for tall people who don’t like having to bend over endlessly to reach other spreaders, it’s a perfect pick.
4. Agri-Fab 45-0463 130-Pound Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader
If you have to cover an incredibly wide area this Agri-FabAgri-FabAgri-FabAgri-Fab hopper is worth a closer look. It carries up to 130 pounds of seed or fertilizer so when you have a lot of acreages to cover, you can save time on refilling.
This is a tow-behind transmitter with an enclosed tapered gearbox that provides maximum spread and ensures that this one can last a long time. A long wheelbase and wide tire diameter offer a lot of stability so you can drive over rugged terrain without thinking about tipping over the spreader.
There are also optional accessories, including a hooper cover to protect the product, and a deflector to narrow the wide-spread pattern. Also, if you want to adjust the flow an optional grate is available.
5. Brinly BS36BH, 75 lb, Black Tow-Behind Broadcast Spreader
Rust- and dent-proofRust- and dent-proofRust- and dent-proofRust- and dent-proof is this extra-large , high-capacity spreader, and the large hopper carries up to 175 pounds of seed , fertiliser, or other items. All the hardware, the spinner shaft, and the agitator are made of stainless steel, and for added safety, the gears are entirely enclosed.
This spreader also has a proprietary auto-flow that makes it easy to adapt to the material you are dealing with, in addition to being designed rugged and made to last. Grass seed spreads much differently than granular fertilizer, and you can now compensate for these variations quickly, creating many pre-calibrated choices.
For lawns that are larger than an acre, the tow-behind hitch has a universal clip that suits most lawn tractors and makes this a perfect option. It also comes with a clear-top cover to secure the content you spread.
6. Brinly P20-500BHDF Push Spreader with Side Deflector Kit
For medium-sized yards, push spreaders are a great choice, and this product from BrinlyBrinlyBrinlyBrinly is one of the best. It’s just the right amount, so you’re not going to have to refill too much, but it’s not so large it’s unmanageable. The heavy-duty hopper, including crop, fertilizer, or ice-melting agents, contains about 50 pounds of materials.
The movement of the material is regulated by a deflector and prevents it from getting into driveways, sidewalks, and other undesirable areas. Only flip it up and out of the way when it’s not in use. Simple to calibrate and the large pneumatic tires are easy to navigate.
This spreader has a powder-coated frame, a fully enclosed rust-resistant gearbox, and an agitator, shaft, and hardware is stainless steel. It is easy to see with all that and a poly hopper that won’t break, rust, or dents, that this one is made to last.
7. Chapin International Chapin 8620B 150 Pound Tow Behind Spreader
There’s a lot to love about this Chapin tow-back broadcast spreaderChapin tow-back broadcast spreaderChapin tow-back broadcast spreaderChapin tow-back broadcast spreader. The dual impeller auto-stop only spreads material while it is in motion, and because it has a capacity of 150 pounds, you can cover a lot of ground without having to stop refilling too much.
It is made to last too. In order to reduce friction and secure the gearbox and axle, this design has oil-impregnated bearings. The 14-inch wide tread pneumatic tires travel easily over any terrain, and the trailer hitch is designed for skilled use and connects to the most common fittings of the tractor.
With 11 settings, this spreader has an easy-to-set change so that you can get an exact application, whether you are spreading grass seed or fertilizer. It has a limited warranty for life, and the USA is focused on customer service.
8. Scotts Turf Builder Edgeguard Mini Broadcast Spreader
That Scotts mini broadcast spreaderScotts mini broadcast spreaderScotts mini broadcast spreaderScotts mini broadcast spreader is just the right match for smaller lawns. If you use seed, fertilizer, salt, or ice melt, it carries enough Scotts items to cover up to 5,000 square feet.
By blocking the right side of the when engaged, edge guard technology prevents deployment to regions other than your lawn. For your comfort, this spreader is already calibrated, so all you have to do is connect the wheels, fill them up, and you’re ready to go.
This is the smallest of the Scotts walk-behind spreaders, so this could be the perfect choice for you if you wanted one but didn’t want to invest in a larger model. It’s perfect too if you have plenty of landscaping in your yard and need a smaller spreader to fit into some narrow spaces.
9. Titan 50 Lb. Fertilizer Broadcast Spreader
This Titan spreaderTitan spreaderTitan spreaderTitan spreader is the right size for a small yard and is sufficiently robust to withstand heavy use. A wide capacity drum carries 50 pounds of fertilizer, grass seed, or any other materials needing to spread, so you can cover the whole lawn without having to avoid refilling.
The axles and tires are made from solid, durable materials which last. They also make maneuvering around different terrains and over branches, rocks, and roots easy, but your lawn or sod won’t be hurt. It’s easy to use and won’t take a lot of repairs or maintenance.
There are three flow settings to better control applications, which you can change right from the handle. It also has a high-quality axle and a robust gearbox so that you can operate as safely as possible.
10. Solo 421 20-Pound Capacity Portable Chest-mount Spreader
Here’s another look you might think fits well for yourself. The Solo portable spreaderSolo portable spreaderSolo portable spreaderSolo portable spreader for chest mounting is super easy to use, and a perfect option for small or narrow spaces. It carries twenty pounds of content, which is enough without weighing too much to get the job done.
Easy-to-use fingertip controls change the spreader’s flow, volume, and direction, and the wide opening makes it simple to fill and clean. It also has a convenient, adjustable cross-shoulder strap that suits just about everybody.
Even this product is made really well. It has a fully enclosed gearbox and an agitator resistant to corrosion, plus a hopper for polyethylene and stainless steel that is resistant to rust and will not obstruct. The screw-on cap prevents the escape of spills or odors, and the crank handle is smooth and durable.
Check HereCheck HereCheck HereCheck Here for More ProductsConsider with a Broadcast Spreader for Your Lawn Area
When choosing a broadcast spreader the main thing to remember is the size of your lawn. For example, a tow spreader makes most sense if you have a lot of lands and already own an ATV or tractor.
On the other side, a walk-behind broadcast spreader is best when you have a medium-sized lawn. It would be overkill for a tow spreader, and a chest-mounted spread could work, but it would take much longer.
For small lawns, chest-mounted broadcast spreaders are fantastic but it is also worth considering using one in combination with a larger spreader.
A small portable spreader is an excellent way to ensure that you cover and narrow places that are too small for larger spreaders to go if you have a lot of landscaping, including mulch beds, walkways, and trees.
How to Use a Broadcast Spreader?
Every broadcast spreader is a little different, but here’s a general guide for how to use one.
1. Make sure you’re using fertilizer or other lawn items of the right sort. You will find this information on the packaging and will tell you whether or not a broadcast spreader can be used to apply the product. If it can, it will tell you the settings that you can use, too.
2. Determine can field to protect. If you have to, use a tape measure, but most people have a general idea about their lawn’s size. To get an idea of the amount of product you would need to use, you need the total area.
3. On the driveway or sidewalk with the flow lever closed, position the broadcast spreader, then fill the hopper. This way you can quickly sweep it up without thinking about damaging your lawn if anything spills out.
4. Only change the settings after the hopper is complete. Again, the packaging of whatever product you are using provides this detail. It’s called a rate of distribution and typically it’s a number between one and 10.
5. Place the spreader approximately three feet away from one of the edges on your lawn. Don’t stand right on the edge, because you want to land in your yard, not on the ground, then the spreader can spray off to the left.
6. Squeeze or push the handle for the lawn product to begin spreading. Walk at a leisurely speed, about three miles an hour. When you get back to your starting spot, work around the entire circumference of the lawn first, then release the handle.
7. Further shift the spreader onto your grass, right next to the starting point. Squeeze the handle and walk across your lawn back and forth, overlapping the previous pass by about six to 12 inches. Keep going this way until the whole lawn is covered.
8. Water the area with a garden hose or sprinkler after you have done, until the top inch of the soil is moist.
9. To make sure all of the fertilizer is out of the system, rinse the spreader with the hose. There shouldn’t be that much left in the spreader if you weighed your lawn and the quantity of fertilizer correctly.
Conclusion
There are a lot of things to consider when it comes to the best broadcast spreaders, so we have a few top picks for you.
Check out the Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Broadcast SpreaderScotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Broadcast SpreaderScotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Broadcast SpreaderScotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Broadcast Spreader if you are looking for a push or walk-behind spreader. With a complete hopper, it covers up to 15,000 square feet and has a control panel to customize for precision. Edgeguard technology is also nice, as it keeps the product from having anything and making a neater application possible.
The Agri-Fab 45-0463 Tow Behind Broadcast SpreaderAgri-Fab 45-0463 Tow Behind Broadcast SpreaderAgri-Fab 45-0463 Tow Behind Broadcast SpreaderAgri-Fab 45-0463 Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader is a perfect choice if you already own a tractor or ATV and have a lot of lands to cover. It keeps up to 130 pounds of fertilizer or seed so it continues to run and go. It is also highly robust and has a handful of useful accessories at its disposal.
Finally, we suggest the Solo 421 Capacity Portable Chest-mount SpreaderSolo 421 Capacity Portable Chest-mount SpreaderSolo 421 Capacity Portable Chest-mount SpreaderSolo 421 Capacity Portable Chest-mount Spreader if you have a small yard but want something more powerful and time-saving than a handheld spreader.
This one carries about 20 pounds of stuff and is held over the shoulder comfortably. The controls on the fingertips are nice because you can change the flow, volume, and direction to get the exact coverage you need.
All that said, every single product we reviewed is fantastic. Take into account the size of your lawn and how much product you need to spread, then choose the best one for you.
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