A spreader distributes granular materials like fertilizer, seed, or ice melt evenly across a lawn or garden area. Uniform application is necessary for healthy, consistent growth. Incorrect application can lead to patchiness, where some areas are underfed, or fertilizer burn, where too much product concentrates in one spot. Learning to operate this tool correctly prevents these common issues and promotes a vibrant landscape.
Choosing the Right Spreader
The choice of spreader depends on the size and layout of the area you intend to treat. The two main types are the rotary (or broadcast) spreader and the drop spreader. Rotary spreaders use a spinning plate to fling material in a wide arc, covering a swath of several feet. They are ideal for large, open lawns where speed is a priority. While quick, they offer less precision and can accidentally throw material into flower beds or driveways, though some models feature an edge guard.
The drop spreader releases material directly beneath the hopper, dropping it only in the path between the wheels. This design provides maximum accuracy, making it the preferred choice for small yards or areas adjacent to delicate plantings or walkways. Because their coverage width is limited, drop spreaders require more passes and a slower application process. Proper technique is necessary for both types to avoid the visible streaking or “zebra stripes” that result from uneven coverage.
Essential Pre-Use Setup
Before loading any material, accurately determine the total area of your lawn in square footage. This measurement is crucial because the application rate of granular products is based on a specific amount per area, usually per 1,000 square feet. Online mapping tools or simple geometry can help calculate this area, subtracting non-lawn features like houses and driveways.
Consult the product packaging to find the recommended spreader setting for your specific brand and model. This setting dictates the size of the flow gate opening and the amount of material released. Since these settings are guides, initially set the dial slightly lower than recommended; it is easier to make a second pass than to correct an over-application that can scorch the lawn. Finally, fill the spreader hopper on a hard surface like a driveway or sidewalk, preventing accidental spillage from causing chemical burn to the grass.
Proper Application Techniques
The spreading process begins with establishing a clear, consistent pattern and maintaining a steady walking pace. A walking speed of approximately three miles per hour is recommended, as variations in speed cause inconsistent distribution. For both rotary and drop spreaders, the first step is to create a perimeter pass, or “header strip,” around the entire area. This strip provides a buffer for turning and helps prevent over-application at the edges.
After the perimeter is complete, work the rest of the lawn in parallel, back-and-forth rows, moving in the longest direction possible. The flow gate must be closed every time you stop, slow down, or make a turn to prevent material from accumulating and burning the turf. When using a rotary spreader, overlap the material’s throw pattern by about half on each subsequent pass to ensure a uniform dose. Drop spreaders require the wheel tracks of each pass to slightly overlap the previous application area to eliminate untreated strips.
Post-Use Cleanup and Storage
Immediate and thorough cleaning of the spreader is necessary after application, especially when using corrosive materials like fertilizer or salt. Fertilizer dust is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture and forms an acidic coating that can rapidly corrode metal components. Start by emptying any remaining material back into the product bag. Then, wash the entire spreader with cold water from a hose, paying attention to the flow gate and the rotary impeller or drop bar.
Allow the machine to dry completely, ideally in the sun for an hour or two, turning it over to drain water from all crevices. Lubricating moving metal parts with a silicone spray or light oil helps protect them from rust and ensures smooth operation for the next use. When storing the spreader, keep it in a dry location and leave the flow gate fully open to relax the tension spring in the mechanism, extending the life of the internal components.