Lawn Zen

Having a beautiful lawn is a dream for many people, but maintenance of that lawn is something you need to dedicate your time to. Regardless of its size, you need to spread fertilizer to ensure that your grass grows healthily, as well as other plants (if you decide to plant them). Other than that, you also need to distribute seeds evenly to create a lawn that looks neat.

However, you cannot do the job alone – enter the fertilizer spreaders.

These tools will not only ensure you spread your seeds evenly, but also ensure you do it quickly and accurately. There is a challenge in selecting the correct one for your needs though, so we have rounded up the ten best spreaders for you to check out today. You may just be lucky enough to own one of them, and they may save you time and resources.

Top ten fertilizer spreaders

Fertilizer spreader	Editor's rating	Capacity (in lbs.)	Check on Amazon
Lesco high wheel spreader (manual)	4.9	80	check price here
Scotts Turf classic drop spreader	4.2	50	check price here
Scotts Turf builder mini spreader	4.2	10	check price here
Stalwart handheld spreader	4.0	2.5	check price here
Agri-Fab 45-0463 spreader	4.0	130	check price here
Brinley BS36BH broadcast spreader	3.9	175	check price here
Scotts Wizz handheld spreader	3.9	10-15	check price here
Agri-Fab 45-0462 broadcast spreader	4.0	130	check price here
Earthway 2150 spreader	4.2	50	check price here
Titan professional spreader	4.2	50	check price here

 

Lesco High Wheel Fertilizer, manual deflector – best for flexibility in use

Being one of the top choices for landscapers and experts in lawn care, you will not go wrong when you choose the Lesco High Fertilizer spreader. This is due to its innate ability to adapt to the needs of its user, no matter what the time of year is. It is also important to note that it is a replacement of the discontinued Lesco 101186 model.

The ideal situation to use the spreader is during the summer and spring months so that you can spread granular products including seeds and fertilizers evenly, and this increases the chances of roots growing healthily. However, it is not only these seasons that it lends itself to great use – even in the winter, you can use it to spread salt on sideways, paths and driveways, just in case the ice is too thick and poses safety dangers such as slips.

The spreader has pneumatic tires that happen to be extra-large in size, and these serve to add some stability even when you work on slippery terrain, and they enhance a smooth ride during operation because they reduce the chances of considerable rutting.

You no longer need to worry about the durability either, as the spreader is comprised of an impeller shaft, a stainless steel frame and an axle, among other features. However, there is a drawback – the model does not include a cover.

What we like

• The capacity of the hopper is large, up to 80lbs.
• Very good quality construction
• The kit includes a manual deflector kit, which makes it easy to assemble

What we do not like

• For it to last longer, it must remain clean – maintenance costs are high because of that
• You need to assemble it first before use, as it does not come pre-assembled

 

View price on Amazon

 

 

Scotts Turf Classic drop spreader – works best for areas under 5,000 sq. ft.

Similar to the best fertilizer spreaders, this allows you to use it all year round, especially during the summer, fall or spring months. The hopper comes fully assembled, so there is not worry of trying to figure out where different components go. In addition, it holds up to 10,000 square feet of the products.

The coverage is evenly spread out, despite the time of year you use it. With the DC motor of 12V, the spreader distributes both fertilize and seed uniformly, and it can carry up to 8lbs of small grain, seed, or fertilizer. The build of the spreader allows you to reach the controls from the driver’s seat, making your job easier.

Maintenance comes easy, thanks to the rain cover you can use in adverse weather conditions, while the heavy duty frame ensures the stability of the spreader as you use it.

What we like

• Easy to use
• It has clear calibrations that make it easy to adjust the spreading ability
• Very good quality construction

What we do not like

• It lacks necessary hex nuts and washers
• Sometimes the fertilizer gets stuck in it and it fails to spread evenly

 

View price on Amazon

 

 

Scotts Turf Builder mini broadcast spreader – best budget buy

Similar to its cousin, the Scotts Classic drop spreader, you can use it to apply fertilizer and grass seeds in every season (apart from winter). The smaller size can hold half of the capacity of the Classic spreader, up to 1,000 sq. ft., and it requires no extra assembly.

The spreader comes with a control panel that has precision settings, and this ensures the coverage is adequate and uniform. In addition, it has exclusive EdgeGuard technology from the manufacturer, which serves to prevent the product from spreading out to unneeded areas when you engage it. It does this by locking the right side of the spreader patterns.

Because of its size and features, it is a good choice if you have a medium size lawn area, or if your lawn requires high accuracy in application – such as tight curves or areas with very high extent of landscaping.

What we like

• You do not need to refill it frequently
• Easy to operate and push
• It allows you to adjust the settings based on the ground you are working on – whether it is fertilizer, grass, and so on.

What we do not like

• It becomes clogged sometimes
• The wheels are small and do not offer much stability

 

View price on Amazon

 

 

Stalwart Handheld spreader – best if you have a very small lawn

If you have the desire to see some healthy seeds growing in the summer or spring, or if you want to melt some ice from your path during the winter season, this fertilizer spreader is your best bet, as it is both practical and multi-purpose to fit all your needs regardless of season. It features a build of durable plastic, a comfortable handle, as well as a lid that is easy to twist off for the times you want to refill.

The seed and salt shaker holds up to 2.3 liters of content, which you can pour in and distribute to the ground in a safe way, and also while avoiding the pain of making multiple trips for refills.

On the other hand, if you have a large hand, you do not need to worry anymore about if you can handle this spreader – the handle has a spacious design that takes care of that. It remains comfortable to hold even after long periods of use.

What we like

• Distributes evenly, especially the fertilizer and seed contents
• Comfortable to handle
• Good quality in construction

What we do not like

• Its capacity is smaller than what most people would want
• The handle is fragile especially when not handled carefully

 

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Agri-Fab 45-0463 broadcast spreader – best for big compounds

This is a good choice if you are looking for something that can handle a lawn of a very big size, as it leans towards the commercial side of things. The hopper capacity goes up to 130 lbs., so it can save a lot of time when you are handling a lawn with larger acreage.

The spreader comes with an enclosed gear box that has gears that are tapered in their shape, and this ensures the durability of the product, while there is an on-off control durable rod that helps you in easier setting adjustments, as the measurements are accurate.

If the terrain you work on is more rough than most, the spreader has tires of a large diameter with a wide wheelbase, and this ensures stability even on rougher areas. The good news overall is that you get the material deflector, the original cover, as well as the hopper grate within the package.

There is a drawback though – the gears have no grease on them, so you must open the gear box and lubricate them before you start to use it.

What we like

• The spreader is easy to operate
• Comfortable to handle because of the ergonomic handle
• Its large capacity reduces the number of refills you need to make
• Good quality construction

What we do not like

• The calibrations lack recommended settings, so it can become challenging when you are setting the adjustments of the spreader.

 

View price on Amazon

 

 

Brinly BS36BH broadcast spreader – best in versatility of use

This is a good option if you have the desire of reducing your spreading work over as large area, as long as you are willing to get through the challenges of assembling it. This spreader will provide the opportunity to invest properly in your lawn, so it stands as a worthwhile investment.

The universal tow system it has is suitable for many lawn tractors, so it takes away the burden of doing heavy work. You can also use it to apply some salt to ice during the winter season, as well as other snow melting agents.

The spreaders controls are easy to navigate, even for first time users. They have calibrated settings as well as a setting lock dial, all which will speed up your spreading time and make sure that you are doing it accurately.

An interesting feature is the patented Directional spreading pattern, which controls the evenness of the spread regardless of the material you are using, and you can also adjust it to give you the widest spreading widths.

What we like

• The capacity is large, up to 175 lbs., so it can be used on large areas
• Does not require frequent refilling
• Easy to use with many kinds of motors
• Versatile

What we do not like

• It is challenging to assemble
• It tends to be top-heavy, although it maintains its stability

 

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Scotts Wizz hand spreader – best as a lightweight option

Since this is hand-held, it may not work for everyone, this is still a good option for someone who prefers a lightweight option. Regardless of the purpose you want to use it in, the spreader allows you to finish the job faster and with greater precision. It also happens to be the most advanced spreader in the series, as it is powered by 4 AA batteries, as well as having 23 settings to give you greater control and accuracy.

The spreader features the exclusive technology from Scotts EdgeGuard, which works by locking the left side of the spreader pattern to stop the product from spreading out into unwanted areas. The equipment can hold amounts that are enough for 2,500 square feet at the most, so also ensure that you do not over-apply or over-fill.

The settings section of the label has an orange dial that can help you get the correct settings, and the kit comes with an instruction manual to help you in case you are not sure of how to use the spreader.

What we like

• Affordable for the price
• Its design is lightweight and easy to operate
• Has greater control thanks to the 23 settings, so remains an efficient choice
• The technology also helps you reduce wastage while increasing the necessary coverage

What we do not like

• If you have a large piece of land, the refills will be a disadvantage
• You need smaller pellets of seeds or fertilizer, as larger pellets can become stuck in the parts

 

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Agri-Fab 45-0462 push fertilizer spreader – best in spreading multiple materials

Similar to the Agri-Fab 45-0463 broadcast spreader, this is a convenient choice for when you have a lawn of half an acre or more, as the capacity goes up to 130 lbs. However, the efficiency of application will depend mostly on the type of material you are spreading, as well as the speeds of applying it.

The good news is that the spreader itself is made from durable material (aluminum gear), and this is enhanced further by the fact that the gearbox is closed – therefore, does not suffer unnecessary damage to the inner components. In addition, it has excellent levels of stability, thanks the large pneumatic tires. That also means you can use it without much trouble, even if the surface you are working on is rough.

The product life is increased because of the spreader plate and rustproof poly hopper, while the operation remains easy even for a beginner.

Pro tip: before you use it for the first time, foam out the hollow core, as this will minimize chances of rust buildup while also adding strength to the overall frame.

What we like

• The packaging of the product is good and minimizes damage
• Easy to fill in due to the large capacity
• Ease of use
• Stable due to the tires
• Good quality of construction

What we do not like

• The instructions for the assembly are not easy to read for some people

 

View price on Amazon

 

 

Earthway 2150 broadcast spreader, 50-pounds – best for mid-size lawns

The manufacturer has worked to combines some other good features of similar spreaders into one product. It works very well as a commercial spreader that is not too big, so it can work on a mid-size lawn. It is also a good option if you have small storage spaces.

It comes with a 2-position adjustable handle for height differences, while its T-speed lever gives you complete control when you work with it, regardless of your height. It is also easy to use, thanks to the EV-N-SPRED triple hole system, which makes sure that the product spreads evenly, while also giving you accurate application through its feathered spreading edge.

The spreader is heavy, yes, but it also has a high sense of stability thanks to the 13-inch pneumatic tires. The durability is also secure because of the frame construction material, made entirely of aluminum to ensure it does not rust.

What we like

• All materials spread evenly, even larger size particles – thanks to the triple-hole system
• It is not as heavy, especially considering the size
• You can adjust the height of the handle
• It is able to hold a lot of weight
• Very good construction quality and durable

What we do not like

• It is pricey compared to other options

 

View price on Amazon

 

 

Titan professional broadcast spreader for lawn seeds, 50-pounds – best in professional application

If you need a spreader that can handle professional applications without you stressing out too much, then the Titan professional spreader is for you. It lends itself very well to the use for ice melting, herbicides, seeds, pesticides, and fertilizers.

Featuring a high capacity drum that can hold a volume of 50 pounds of the material, it saves you the multiple refilling trip you would need to make. In addition, the construction is of good quality, as the axle is of high quality and the gearbox is built to last.

The spreader comes with a 3-position handle, which gives you the opportunity to adjust it when applying different materials, and helps you find the best allowance for spreading as accurately as possible. In addition the large wheels offer a great sense of stability, allowing you to use it on any terrain even the seemingly rough ones.

What we like

• Easy to use and adjust
• It can be useful over uneven surfaces and maintains great stability
• Does not need much refilling (unless you work on a large piece of land)
• Good quality construction

What we do not like

• The assembly instructions are not very clear for some parts of the machine

 

View price on Amazon

 

What do you look for in a fertilizer spreader?

When you are trying to decide on the type of fertilizer spreader you want, it is very important to match your application with the usage. This is because not all of them, are created equal, and some will lend themselves to better versatility of use than others. For instance, if you are using a spreader for mainly fertilizers, make sure it is properly calibrated.

Since you might have an idea of the different choices you can decide on, you need to know the factors that will affect your decision. Here are the most important ones.

What mechanism do you prefer?

Fertilizer spreaders have three modes of operation – carry, pull, and push. The method you choose will depend on what works for your case. For instance, you do not want to buy a spreader that uses a pulling mechanism if you do not have a utility vehicle or tractor that you can attach it to.

Pushing spreaders are the most common type, and most of them are usually a large size hopper bucket that is supported by two or four wheels. You can get them in various sizes, as they range from mini versions that are useful for a few hundred square feet, while others a large and can hold more than 100 pounds of the product.

Carry or handheld spreaders are good options if your lawn is very small, and the size of the land does not allow for the use of the smallest push mowers. However, they have a drawback of their own – they only have small capacities, and most of them are unfortunately of poor build quality compared to pull or push spreaders.

Pull spreaders on the other hand, are very useful if you have a large land area, and you attach them to a utility vehicle or tractor then pull them along.

Drop spreaders vs. broadcast spreaders

At first glance, it is easy to wonder what makes these two types different from each other, but the difference is simple.

A drop spreaders will literally drop the contents of the spreader as you allow it to, and it leaves a trail directly under the equipment. Broadcast spreaders though, will spread out the contents in an arc. The choice you make will depend on your preferred spreading techniques, as each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

For broadcast spreaders, the advantages are:

• The coverage is more uniform
• They prevent the forming of patterns from application
• They cover a larger area within a shorter time frame

For drop spreaders, their advantages are:

• They are easy to use when you have small pieces of land or tight spaces
• They are easy to use if you are a beginner
• The application patterns are more controlled

Performance

In other words, this refers to how well the fertilizer does its assigned task, and it encompasses several factors.

The first thing you need to know is the coverage area of the spreader, as spreaders with wider widths can finish the job faster, while their passes are fewer. If you pick one with a smaller width, then you have more work cut out for you (unless the area you are working on is small).

The next factor is the consistency of the application, and that means that a low-quality spreader will have uneven and poor distribution of the material. That can lead to certain sections of your land getting too much fertilizer or seed (which can kill the plants), while others get none.

Another factor to look at is the control and customization level it has, which includes elements such as the adjustability of the handles, the ability of the spreader to deal with tight corners or places you do not want to spray, as well as its responsiveness to starting and stopping the application of the fertilizer.

Is the equipment easy to use?

Because some of the fertilizer spreaders can be quite bulky and heavy, you need something that is easy to move and navigate, especially if you are dealing with larger examples. It is therefore important to look for a model that you can steer and handle easily.

That also means that getting models with ergonomic shapes is a plus, in addition to the controls being in an easy-to-reach location. The moving parts on the other hand should have smooth motion, such as the gears and wheels, and the frame should be easy to adjust to different types of frames. An aspect you can also consider is the ease of assemble, though not all models will do so.

Quality of the build

A spreader will set you back hundreds of dollars or even more, so it is essential to get one that is of good quality and is durable. When examining the frame of the spreader, it is important to make sure the materials that comprise it are premium, and they fit into each other nicely.

For instance, do your best to avoid plastic materials and go for steel or aluminum. That also implies that plastic gears, wheels, as well as hoppers should be avoided – they are flimsy and will not last very long especially in certain temperatures and conditions.

In addition, get materials that are resistant to rust. If the manufacturer is offering you a good warranty, it is also a good sign because they show the product is built to last, and they are willing to stand behind their claims.

Cost of the spreader

Cost is always an important factor in the purchase of a product, and it is the same for this one. It is important to keep in mind that just because a spreader is expensive, it does not mean it will perform highly or poorly.

For the case of pricing, it is important to look at similar models, even those from other brands, ad compare the price and features to determine the one that comes out on top. Sometimes, if you want a top model, you need to do plenty of research and make sure you are getting the best there is, even if it is a budget offering.

Maintaining a fertilizer spreader

It is additionally important to know how to maintain a fertilizer spreader, so here are some steps you can use to maintain it.

Correct storage

Before you keep away the equipment, make sure you empty it completely, and avoid leaving any fertilizer residues in it. If the model is larger, it is good practice to lower the rollers on a hard, flat surface. In addition, storing the spreader indoors will extend its shelf life and prevent any occurrences of rusting or breaking of parts.

Lubricating the inner parts regularly

Not all spreaders will come with adequate greasing, so it is important to make sure you have done so before setting them out to work. Keep in mind that the internal components need to be oiled to function properly, such as the gears, sprockets and chains.

Keeping it clean

After every use, make sure o empty the spreader and brush out all the residues of fertilizer or seeds. After this, wash out the spreader with clean water and dry it off.

In case you own a larger spreader, make sure to clean out any dirt or grease, and empty its contents if you are putting it to rest for a few days.

Examine the chains

This is mainly for larger models of spreaders, especially the pull variety. You need to check these chains on a regular basis and make sure they are in good shape. Replace them if need be, or oil and tighten them.

Disassembling the equipment

In the case of you having to take apart the equipment, it is important to mark each piece and its position. You want to ensure every piece goes back in its rightful position, otherwise you are risking breaking the spreader or its parts. This is particularly true for smaller fertilizer spreaders.

Final thoughts

Our pick for this category is the Lesco High Wheel fertilizer spreader. Its efficiency remains highly rated by different users, even though it may be among the newest on the list. Its stability is also an aspect you can enjoy, as you do not need to push it very hard to work or spread its contents easily. However, the only thing you need to watch out for is protecting it, as it does not come with its own cover.