A fertilizer spreader is a tool designed to distribute granular products, such as fertilizer, seed, or soil amendments, uniformly across a lawn or garden area. This mechanical approach provides accuracy and control over the distribution rate, ensuring the correct amount of product is applied per unit of area. Using a spreader prevents nutrient waste, minimizes the risk of turf damage from over-application, and promotes consistent growth. Correct use requires careful preparation and attentive spreading technique.
Understanding Spreader Types
The two primary types of spreaders are the broadcast (rotary) spreader and the drop spreader. The broadcast spreader uses a spinning disk to propel granules outward in a wide arc, making it effective for quickly covering large areas. This mechanism results in a bell-shaped distribution pattern, with the product tapering off toward the edges of the spread width. Broadcast spreaders are preferred for lawns without many obstacles due to their speed and wide coverage.
In contrast, the drop spreader releases the granular material directly downward through a narrow opening located between the wheels. This design provides superior precision, as the product is only deposited exactly where the spreader passes over the ground. Drop spreaders are the preferred tool for applications near walkways, driveways, or garden beds where it is necessary to prevent product from landing on hard surfaces or sensitive plants. While they require more passes and are slower than rotary models, their accuracy minimizes product waste and staining.
Essential Preparation Before Spreading
Successful application begins with accurately calculating the product rate and measuring the area to be treated. Start by locating the guaranteed analysis and application instructions on the fertilizer bag, which will specify how many pounds of product should be applied per thousand square feet. You must then measure the square footage of your lawn to determine the total amount of material needed for the entire area. For instance, a 5,000 square foot lawn requires five times the amount recommended for a 1,000 square foot section.
Next, set the spreader’s flow-control dial to the correct opening size. The fertilizer manufacturer typically provides a recommended setting on the product packaging. If a specific setting is unavailable, perform a small test run to determine the amount of fertilizer applied over a known area. Adjusting the setting ensures the granules are released at the calculated rate, avoiding both under-feeding and over-application that can burn the lawn.
Once the rate is confirmed, fill the spreader hopper on a solid surface, such as a driveway or garage floor, rather than directly on the lawn. This prevents accidental spills from creating concentrated patches of fertilizer that could scorch the grass. Avoid overfilling the hopper, which can make the spreader difficult to push and lead to inconsistent flow. Complete the filling process before moving the machine onto the turf to begin the application.
Proper Application Technique
The act of spreading requires maintaining a consistent walking speed, as fluctuations in pace directly affect the rate of delivery. Begin by making a complete pass around the perimeter of the area to establish a border and provide a turning area. This border pass helps prevent over-application on the edges. For broadcast spreaders, use a reduced rate or a side-shield feature during this initial pass to protect adjacent non-turf areas.
After establishing the border, work back and forth across the main area in parallel lines. With a broadcast spreader, overlap passes so that the edge of the current spread pattern lands near the wheel tracks of the previous pass. This method creates approximately a 50% overlap, which helps smooth out the bell-shaped distribution pattern for uniform coverage. A common alternative is the half-rate, double-pass technique, where the area is treated twice at half the calculated setting, with the second pass running perpendicular to the first.
For drop spreaders, which leave a precise application line, the goal is to align the edge of the current pass exactly with the previous wheel mark to avoid gaps or double-coverage stripes. Always ensure the flow-gate is closed when making turns or stopping to prevent a pile of fertilizer from dumping onto the lawn. Start walking before opening the gate and close it immediately before stopping or turning at the end of a pass. This technique is especially important near the borders to maintain an even application rate across the entire area.
Cleanup and Storage
Immediate cleaning of the spreader after use maintains the equipment’s longevity and accuracy. Fertilizer contains highly corrosive salts that can rapidly damage metal components like axles, bearings, and control linkages. If left uncleaned, the residue absorbs moisture, creating an acidic coating that accelerates rust and corrosion.
Start by emptying any leftover product from the hopper, ensuring no granules remain to harden or clog the mechanism. Use a garden hose with low-pressure water to thoroughly rinse all parts, paying close attention to the dispenser opening and the spinning mechanism. Avoid high-pressure washing, as it can force corrosive residue and moisture into delicate moving parts and bearings.
After rinsing, the spreader must be allowed to dry completely before being stored to prevent any immediate rust formation. Applying a light lubricant or protective spray to exposed metal parts, such as the cables and linkages, can help shield them from future corrosion. Store the cleaned and dried spreader in a moisture-free area, ensuring it is ready and functional for the next application.