10 Best Fertilizer Spreaders – Comparison & Reviews

 

The Essential Guide to Finding the Fertilizer Spreader + Reviews

 

Are you looking for the best fertilizer spreader, but you don’t know where to start? This paragraph will show you what you need to know to make an informed decision and get a spreader that will surely get the job done. Our research team identified the Scotts 76232 Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Broadcast Spreader as the most popular model at the moment, due to its excellent advantages and benefits. You can use this spreader for fertilizer, ice, seeds, and anything else you must spread on your lawn. With a capacity to cover 15,000 square meters, it is an impressive machine. The control panel offers you the possibility to adjust the unit so that it spreads the product as you desire. In the off-chance that this model is no longer available, you can also try the Earthway 2150 Commercial Walk-Behind Broadcast Spreader, which is a solid second choice.

 

 

Comparison Table

 

 

 

10 Best Fertilizer Spreaders (Updated Reviews) in 2024

 

 

If you’re interested in a fertilizer spreader, you may discover that the plethora of units available can feel a little overwhelming. To help you make the difference between various types and models, we offer you this list of popular products that will get you started.

 

 

1. Scotts 76232 Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Broadcast Spreader

 

Most of the fertilizer spreader reviews you find will tell you that this model is one of the most advantageous you can find at the moment. Created by a company well-known for making excellent products for lawn care and maintenance, it comes equipped with many extras you will like.

For instance, it has the EdgeGuard feature, which is exclusive to Scotts products, and that will help you spread fertilizer without damaging other areas of your yard. Since it comes with a control panel, it has settings that allow you to spread the fertilizer in a comfortable and precise manner.

It comes calibrated, so, after you assemble it, you can start using it. You will like the fact that you can use it to spread more than fertilizer. For instance, you can spread grass seeds, as well. The hopper has a large capacity, so you will never run out of product to spread.

 

Pros

Since it’s capable of holding enough product for covering up to 15,000 square feet, you will find this model more convenient than many others on the market.

The control panel has precise rate settings, which allow you to spread enough fertilizer over the required patch of land without going over or under.

Also, the manufacturer showed extra care in the making of this particular spreader that comes equipped with the EdgeGuard Technology, exclusive to this company.

Once you have the unit assembled, you can start using it since it’s already calibrated and advertised as ready to use.

 

Cons

The explanations for the settings on the dial are not explained, as such information is not included with the purchase, which can make using the spread a bit confusing.

If you don’t pay attention to its regular maintenance, the metal parts will start to rust in a couple of years.

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2. Earthway 2150 Commercial Walk-Behind Broadcast Spreader

 

There are various types of spreaders on the market, but the walk-behind variety has its fair share of supporters, due to the convenience offered. This model from Earthway is such a type of spreader, and you will appreciate its ease of use right away. Another essential thing to mention is that it’s a commercial fertilizer spreader so that you can use it for a small business, too.

One of its most important advantages is the Ev-N-Spred function that ensures that no patches will remain uncovered, as it’s sometimes the case with other spreaders on the market. The adjustable handle is a feature oriented toward comfort, and you will also like the possibility to customize the spreading rate.

Since it’s a commercial model, it comes with 175-pound load capacity. Its large pneumatic tires help with the heavy-duty aspect of this model, as well. The rims are also rust-proof, to sustain a lot of wear and tear.

 

Pros

You can expect this spreader to be in service for long years, as its gearbox is made to sustain a lot of work without a glitch.

Also, some extra attention to details such as the powder-coated chassis and the rust-proof wheel rims proves that this machine is made for commercial use.

The hopper capacity is 50 pounds, while the load bearing capacity is 175 pounds, making this spreader one of the largest you can find in its category.

Even fertilization is ensured by the Ev-N-Spred function present on this model.

 

Cons

Although a pamphlet with instructions is provided, trying to follow the diagrams is a hassle, and you might not want to have to assemble this spreader again.

The agitator is a bit on the small side, and that might determine you to stop from time to time to bump it a little so that the excess drops from the sides.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

3. Earthway 2600APlus Walk-Behind Broadcast Spreader

 

One of the biggest challenges for most spreaders on the market is to provide even fertilization. Knowing of this issue, Earthway equipped its spreaders like this one with a feature called Ev-N-Spred. Managing a 3-hole drop system, it adjusts the spread pattern so that no patch remains uncovered with fertilizer.

And that’s not the only great thing about this lawn fertilizer spreader. You can also adjust the drop rate so that you don’t overload narrow parts of your lawn with too much product. The gearbox is fully enclosed, which means that you can expect it to have a long life. In case you’re thinking about making an investment, this model is an excellent choice.

Everything about this model spells heavy-duty. Its chassis is powder-coated, while the wide-set tires provide stability for a spreader that can be loaded to service an entire lawn without problems. The hopper is rust-proof, for a long life of service, too.

 

Pros

You don’t have to worry that the spreader might get blocked for the simple reason that the fully enclosed gearbox doesn’t allow such glitches.

The sturdy frame, accompanied by wide-set tires, is an assurance in itself that this model was created with a long lifespan in mind.

Even more, the tires are pneumatic and will not get flat, even when you have to use the spreader on uneven turf.

The great thing is that the spreader comes with a 40-pound hopper that manages to keep a low profile, thus helping you deal with areas that are more cramped than the rest.

 

Cons

The instructions offered by the manufacturer are far from intuitive, so read them carefully and have at least half an hour at your disposal to assemble the unit.

Also, the handle appears flimsy compared to the rest of the spreader, so there’s no telling how long it will last.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

4. Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader

 

If you have a small yard in your care, there is no point in investing in a commercial model. For your needs, consider this yard fertilizer spreader that you can move around by holding it in one hand. Another great point is the ability to spread not only fertilizer but also seeds and ice melt. As you can see, no matter what you need to apply to your yard, it is possible with this little helper.

Made by Scotts, it shares some of the advantages offered by other products carrying the same name. For instance, it will provide excellent coverage, and you won’t have to worry about patches of ground remaining unattended.

To give you an idea about what this model can do, you should know that it can hold the necessary product for treating up to 1,500 square feet of land. The adjustable arm is there to help you customize it to your needs.

 

Pros

A handheld spreader, this model is ideal for spreading fertilizer on small lawns of up to 1,500 square feet in size.

It can do more than just spread fertilizer; you can use it in the spring to spread seeds, or you can apply ice melt with its help.

The smooth operation is one of its significant pluses, and overall, you will find it pretty straightforward to use, without any complicated features and functions.

Also, it ensures that the coverage is even so that you don’t have to go over a patch over and over again, or worse, discover only later that some parts have remained unattended.

 

Cons

Don’t expect it to be particularly comfortable, and bear in mind that you might want to protect your shoes so that you don’t spread the product all over them.

The plastic arm doesn’t inspire too much trust and seems to be less durable than the rest of the unit.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

5. Scotts 76565 Turf Builder Classic Drop Spreader

 

You can count on this fertilizer drop spreader to ensure that up to 10,000 square feet of land receive the product needed to keep nasty critters at bay when the new grass emerges. You can use it to spread seeds, as well, which is a great plus, seeing how you won’t have to purchase two different machines for this purpose.

Another thing you will surely like about this model is that it comes fully assembled, which eliminates any headaches related to how to put it together. Also, it must be mentioned that the unit is pre-calibrated, and therefore ready to use as soon as it is delivered to your door.

With a 22-inch spread pattern, this machine is sure to provide you with maximum coverage, and you can appreciate the precision it offers, as well. For stability, it comes with a heavy-duty frame that also guarantees the long life of this spreader.

 

Pros

This model offers a consistent spread pattern that ensures that no parts of your lawn or yard will remain untreated with fertilizer.

Since it is delivered fully assembled, you don’t have to worry about any difficulties that might arise from assembling it, as it’s often the case with such units.

Furthermore, the unit is pre-calibrated, and you can start using it right away without any other prerequisites.

The hopper can hold the necessary product for fertilizing up to 10,000 square feet, so it’s an excellent choice for this yard size.

If you want to, you can use it for spreading grass seeds, as well.

 

Cons

There is a possibility for fertilizer buildup inside the wheels, so you might have to stop and clean them now and then.

Expect corrosion to appear after consistently using this spreader, as fertilizer tends to do that; some extra maintenance may help.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

6. Craftsman CMXGZBF7124571 Tow Broadcast Spreader

 

The broadcast pattern on this model ensures that the fertilizer you apply to your lawn will get spread evenly and that you won’t discover that some areas remained untreated afterward. The 10-foot spread pattern is a great plus, and one look at this model will tell you that it’s quite sturdy, and you can depend on it.

You can use it as an ATV fertilizer spreader because you can attach it to your vehicle for convenient use. It comes equipped with 10-inch pneumatic tires that ensure that you can manipulate your spreader over uneven terrain with great ease.

Due to the 110-pound hopper capacity, you can expect this model to cover 17,500 square feet without a problem. Also, it must be mentioned that the hopper is rust-proof, which means that you can expect it to be in service, without the need for a replacement.

 

Pros

The steel gear is heavy duty and ensures the long lifespan of the unit so that you can depend on it for many years of service.

Since it comes with a universal attachment, you can connect it to your rider using a hitch pin so that you can deal with this type of lawn care in the easiest way possible.

Not only for fertilizer, but it also deals pretty well with spreading seeds and ice melt, too, thus providing multiple uses and versatility.

The spreader plate and the hopper are rust-proof, and they offer increased durability to the unit.

With the help of the universal hitch, you can attach it to other vehicles.

 

Cons

The instructions offered can be a little confusing, and, in regards to the use of the spreader with an ATV, you should remember that it would work only if there’s no passenger inside with you.

Bear in mind that assembling the unit will take time and effort.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

7. Agri-Fab 45-0463 Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader

 

If you want a fertilizer spreader for tractor, then this particular model is an excellent choice. Its hopper has a 130-pound capacity, so you won’t have to stop for refilling time and time again when you’re working on larger lawns. Due to its maneuverability, it is a convenient unit to use.

You will be pleased to learn that the gearbox comes enclosed and has tapered gears, to ensure the long life of this unit. Also, to ensure the stability of the spreader on uneven terrain, this model comes with large diameter tires, and the wheelbase is wide, as well.

The flow gate can be controlled from inside the tractor, which is a great plus as you will be able to adjust how much fertilizer to drop. Since it’s made in the US, this unit offers guarantees regarding overall quality and craftsmanship. Therefore, the manufacturer offers a 3-year warranty with this model.

 

Pros

In case you need to spread fertilizer on a large lawn, up to 1 acre, or even more, you will find this spreader to be a great option.

The poly hopper will not catch rust, which is a great plus, seeing how fertilizer is corrosive and can wear down metal over prolonged use.

Since it has a capacity of 130 pounds, there will be no need to refill it over and over again, even when you need to spread fertilizer on a large lawn.

You will be pleased with how the flow gate can be controlled from your tractor seat, for maximum convenience.

 

Cons

The lack of low settings means that you won’t be able to spread the product thoroughly, which can be a bit bothersome.

Also, some assembling issues may appear, and if that’s the case, calling customer service should solve them.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

8. Brinly P20-500BHDF Push Spreader

 

For anyone who wants a push fertilizer spreader, this model may be exactly what he or she wants. The hopper of this model can hold up to 50 pounds of fertilizer, and it can be used for planting grass seed, or for using ice-melting agents when the lawn is covered in snow.

A nice touch for this particular model is the included deflector kit. This component comes in handy when you want to control the flow of the product and to avoid spreading it over areas that should remain without application. When you don’t need it, you can flip it up and get it out of the way.

You will find this unit to be easy to maneuver, as the 12-inch tires will navigate any uneven turf without any problems. All the hardware, the shaft, and the agitator are made from steel, so they are very durable. To ensure accuracy, you only need to use the controls and set the settings as you desire.

 

Pros

Some durability aspects, such as the powder-coated frame and the stainless steel gears, ensure that you will be able to use this model for a long time.

This unit is ideal to use in any season since it spreads fertilizer, it plants grass seeds, and it can also apply ice melting agents in winter.

Use the deflector kit if you want to spread the granular fertilizer evenly, and, when you don’t need it, take it out of the way by flipping it up.

The hopper is impervious to rust, corrosion, and dents, and ensures that you will be able to use this unit for a long time.

 

Cons

The plastic wheels will not work very smoothly as you push the spreader, and that will require some extra effort on your part.

Be aware that this model is more expensive than others that have the same capacity.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

9. Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader

 

With so many spreaders available, it may be a bit daunting to pick the right one. If you have a small yard in your care, your attention should be focused on getting a model that is just the right size. This seed and fertilizer spreader is ideal because it uses a broadcast pattern, but it is compact enough to service small lawns while keeping a low profile.

Otherwise, you can expect it to have all the advantages of other Scotts products, such as the EdgeGuard Technology, which is responsible for keeping the fertilizer from spreading over driveways and other parts of your landscaping layout. You will be pleased to learn that it can spread grass seeds with efficiency, and, in winter, you can use it to apply ice melt.

Because it comes fully assembled, there will be no headaches involved when using the product for the first time. Also, it is delivered pre-calibrated for maximum convenience.

 

Pros

For a mini spreader, this model does a great job while keeping a low profile since you can fold down the handle when you need to store it away in your shed.

Because it is delivered to you pre-calibrated and fully assembled, you can start using it right away without any issues.

If you have a lawn up to 5,000 square feet in your care, this mini walk behind spread is all you need to ensure that the entire area is well protected.

The EdgeGuard Technology will protect sideways, driveways, and other areas from getting spread with fertilizer.

 

Cons

Some of the product will catch on the inside of the wheels, so you will have to pay extra care when you’re washing the spreader before putting it away.

The top handle is a bit too low for people who are 6-feet tall or taller, which means that using it is not comfortable for them.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

10. Chapin 82080 All Season Professional Broadcast Spreader

 

The first thing that must be mentioned about this model is that it is built with durability in mind. The gear system is enclosed to ensure that it doesn’t get blocked during usage, and this aspect ensures the long life of the spreader. Any fertilizer spreader review regarding this model can also tell you that the steel frame resists a lot of wear and tear since it is powder-coated.

Use this spreader for various purposes, such as spreading fertilizer, planting seeds, applying salt and ice melt, as well as for other goals that involve the use of such a machine. It is a good thing that the model comes with an adjustable gate control so that you can customize how much fertilizer you allow to drop.

The grate present on the spreader serves to prevent clumping, thus ensuring that nothing stops the smooth flow of the product once you start spreading it on your lawn.

 

Pros

Equipped with 12-inch pneumatic tires, this spreader works well on any terrain, and spreading the fertilizer will not be affected.

You will like the fact that the manufacturer includes a rain cover with your purchase, a small extra that can prove quite handy under specific circumstances.

Precision is essential for spreaders, and that’s why this model comes with an adjustable gate control that will allow only the quantity you want to be applied.

Don’t hesitate to use the spreader for other materials, such as grass seeds, salt, ice melting agents, and so on.

Due to the 80-pound capacity of the hopper, you can expect a lot of usefulness from this spreader.

 

Cons

The edge shield part appears to be flimsy, and it might become a cause for headaches later down the road.

Also, the instructions seem a little confusing, so make sure to have plenty of time at your disposal to assemble the spreader.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

 

A spreader for your fertilizer can prove convenient when you need to take care of a lawn. The entire operation suddenly becomes smoother and more enjoyable once you have such a tool by your side. If you want to get the best commercial fertilizer spreader or just a small one, be aware of the most important things you need to know about such units.

 

 

Types of spreaders available

Even if there are different types of spreaders available, this doesn’t mean that they don’t operate according to the same principles. However, the way you operate it can make a big difference, as everyone has his or her preferences when it comes to that. For instance, a ride on fertilizer spreader is not the same as a handheld model.

A walk-behind model is a cheap fertilizer spreader that allows you to operate such a machine conveniently. All you need to do is to push the spreader to move forward, and the wheels will engage a mechanism located inside so that the fertilizer gets dropped through a gate.

Tow-behind models have a larger capacity, and they can be considered commercial grade. You can attach this type of spreader to another vehicle, so if you’re looking for a UTV fertilizer spreader, this is the category you should look at. There must be a universal hitch connector present of the unit to make this possible.

Handheld spreaders are handy when you have only a small patch of lawn to look after, and you see no point in investing in a large model. They are usually operated with the help of a crank, and they are pretty straightforward in terms of design.

 

Differences between broadcast and drop spreaders

Another significant difference you will learn about when looking at various spreaders is the one regarding the dispensing mechanism. There are two major types here: broadcast and drop spreaders.

If you opt for a broadcast model, you will be happy to see how you will manage to spread fertilizer over large areas fast and easy. These units come with a spinning disc that takes care of spreading the product. However, there is a downside, and that’s the lack of proper control over how you spread the fertilizer.

Quite quickly, the product can end up covering areas that were not supposed to be applied with fertilizer. See if there is some edge guard in place if you opt for this type of spreader. Bear in mind that its main advantage is speed, and even distribution can only be obtained after going over and over the lawn.

Drop spreaders have more accuracy and grant excellent control. However, you cannot expect to find a farm fertilizer spreader in this category. It only works for small areas, and it is not very efficient, time-wise.

 

Durability aspects

Make sure that you take a close look at how well a spreader is put together before buying it. It should have sturdy tires, and the hopper should be impervious to rust and corrosion. Also, it serves to have an enclosed gearbox for a prolonged lifespan.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q: How does a fertilizer spreader work?

It is easy to operate a spreader for fertilizer since its construction, regardless of type, is pretty straightforward. Even the most affordable fertilizer spreader will offer pretty much the same functionality, which is why, when you learn how to use one, you practically know how to use any other unit of the kind.

Any spreader comes with a hopper that you must load with fertilizer. As you push or tow behind the spreader, the fertilizer begins to drop, due to how the wheels manage to engage an inside mechanism. Some models come with a spinning disc to spread fertilizer around, while others just let it drop through a flow gate.

Also, quite a common feature is a control panel that allows you to adjust the quantity of fertilizer dropped. That can come in handy when you need to change the rate of spreading, and it is a good idea to pick a model with easy to use controls.

 

 

Q: How do you adjust your fertilizer spreader?

Depending on the area you want to apply fertilizer on, you need to adjust your unit. Some models come with an adjustment dial, and you can use the settings available. However, if you want to make sure that you calibrate your spreader to the letter, there is a bit of effort involved.

Drop spreaders are more convenient from this point of view because their pattern is decided by the distance between the wheels. Things become a little more complicated when you use a broadcast spreader. This type spreads the fertilizer using a rotary disc, and that means that there will be more fertilizer in the center, and it will scatter as fast as it is from the center.

For these models, there is a slide lever that you can adjust to ensure proper operation for your spreader. It is also a good idea to use small test areas to see how the settings you picked work.

 

Q: How do you clean a fertilizer spreader?

The first thing you should know when using a spreader is that fertilizers tend to be extremely corrosive, which is why proper cleaning is essential for such tools. Here are some basic guidelines on how to go about cleaning your spreader after each use.

First, you need to remove any excess of product that remained in the hopper. Use a high-pressure air tool to remove the granules and other residues stuck on the hopper. Then hose down with water the entire spreader, making sure that you don’t touch the electrical components and any wiring.

Allow the spreader to dry, and then lubricate all the surfaces that require this operation, according to the information supplied by the manufacturer. After that, make sure that you store your spreader in a shed that is dry and away from direct exposure to sunlight. If you follow all these steps, your spreader should be in service for a long time.

 

 

Bibliography:

1) Types of spreaders

2) Methods of Applying Fertilizer

3) Methods of application for dry fertilizers

4) Do You Water After Spreading Fertilizer?