7 Best Fertilizer Spreaders to Buy In 2020
To most people, keeping a lawn or garden looking lush green is something that should be left to nature. However, nature also needs a helping hand, especially when the soil is deficient of vital minerals. That’s where fertilizer application comes in handy. But what’s the best equipment for the job?
Well, to make the process much easier and add more fun to it, you need to get your hands on the best lawn spreaders. And that is exactly what this article provides, an in-depth review of the best products designed for the job.
Image | Product Name | Cover up | Weight | Rating | Current Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader | 5000 sq.ft | 3.8 lbs | 4.3 | |
 | 2. Scotts Wizz Hand-Held Spreader | 2500 sq.ft | 2.4 lbs | 4.4 | |
 | 3. Scotts Turf Builder Classic Drop Spreader | 10000 sq.ft | 10 lbs | 4.2 | |
 | 4. Earthway 1001-B Precision Garden Seeder with 6 Seed Plates | N/A | 15.8 oz | 4.1 | |
 | 5. Agri-Fab 45-0463 130-Pound Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader | 25000 sq.ft | 37 lbs | 4.1 | |
 | 6. Scotts Easy Hand-Held Broadcast Spreader | 1000 sq.ft | 9.6 oz | 3.7 | |
 | 7. Scotts Pro EdgeGuard Broadcast Spreader | 18000 sq.ft | 13 lbs | 3.9 |
7 Best Fertilizer Spreaders - Reviews
#1. Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader
Editor's Rating: 
(4.3 / 5)
Opening up our list is this mini fertilizer spreader designed by Scotts. Being a household brand in the garden world, this mini spreader doesn’t disappoint. It is the smallest in Scotts’ walk-behind spreaders, a feature that makes it lightweight enough for effortless pushing. The hopper attached to this spreader is of a generous size and provides a coverage of up to 5,000 square feet.
You’ll actually enjoy its patented EdgeGuard Technology, which ensures that none of your fertilizer ends up beyond the specified boundary. The spreader comes fully assembled and ready to run without a hitch. Anyone worrying about price should be glad to know that this spreader comes affordable and ideal for all budgets. It’s a good bargain that won’t let you down.
Pros
- EdgeGuard technology keeps fertilizer from spreading into neighboring gardens
- Doesn’t require any assembly which makes it a go right from the box
- Affordable and matches the budget of all buyers
- Hopper holds a substantial amount enough for 5,000 square feet
- Lightweight and easy to store away
- Comes pre-calibrated so no messing around
Cons
- The plastic broadcasting mechanism tends to clog up
- Doesn’t have a rate calculator
- Fertilizer tends to collect in the open areas of the wheels
Who Should Buy?
Scotts Mini Broadcast Spreader is a great purchase for small garden owners who want a more pocket-friendly equipment for the job.
#2. Scotts Wizz Hand-Held Spreader
Editor's Rating: 
(4.4 / 5)
This is a fertilizer spreader that won’t put any noticeable dent in your pocket. In short, it makes an inexpensive yet efficient method in lawn fertilizer application. Scotts Wizz gives the convenience of a handheld spreader that’s lightweight with an electric-powered broadcast operation. Combined together, these two features add more fun to the whole process.
Scotts Wizz sports an impressive coverage for a handheld spreader. It sports a 5-foot spread pattern and 23 settings designed for unbeatable accuracy. A single fill holds enough to cover an area of up to 2,500 square feet. Handy Lock and EdgeGuard technologies come in handy to ensure that the fertilizer doesn’t spread into non-lawn areas.
Pros
- Extremely cheap, which makes it virtually affordable to all
- Handheld operation makes it easier to access hard-to-reach areas
- EdgeGuard and Handy Lock technologies all in a budget spreader
- Lightweight and extremely easy to use
- Spread a variety of garden products providing all year-round use
Cons
- At 2,500 square feet, the coverage is quite limited
Who Should Buy?
Scotts Wizz Hand-Held Spreader is a wise choice for anyone who wants a lightweight, battery-powered spreader that’s easy to use and extremely affordable.
#3. Scotts Turf Builder Classic Drop Spreader
Editor's Rating: 
(4.2 / 5)
Go a little more accurate with this drop spreader designed by Scotts. The first thing that will catch your eye is the heavy-duty frame, which is designed to provide maximum stability and support. Fitted on the frame is a large hopper that holds enough to cover a large area of up to 10,000 square feet.
With a spread pattern of 22 inches, you actually won’t have trouble getting maximum coverage achieved in a more accurate manner. This rugged spreader comes fully assembled and ready to use. What’s more, it is pre-calibrated so there’s no messing around. It is reasonably priced for a durable spreader, so there’s no excuse not to invest in it.
Pros
- Heavy-duty frame that’s stable and designed to last
- Affordable price that makes it great for those on a budget
- Impressive 22-inch spread pattern that provides maximum accuracy
- Comes fully assembled ready to use
Cons
- Being a manual spreader, it requires some effort to push
Who Should Buy?
Scotts Turf Builder Classic Drop Spreader is for those looking for a rugged and reliable spreader that comes at an affordable price.
#4. Earthway 1001-B Precision Garden Seeder with 6 Seed Plates
Editor's Rating: 
(4.1 / 5)
Earthway 1001-B stands true to its name - a precision garden seeder that eliminates any guesswork. This planter is specially designed for row crops, which makes it more of a drop spreader. It comes unique, both in design and operation. There’s a pulley mechanism that functions to engage the spreader.
With this spreader, you get the option of adjusting it to the width and depth of the rows. The result is an even spread, something that takes accurate spread of fertilizer to a whole new level. Equipped with metallic wheels, this spreader ensures that you get smooth movement even on the roughest terrain. What’s more, you don’t have to worry above wheel maintenance since they’re virtually maintenance free.
Almost everything about this spreader is constructed of metal, a feature that tells you that it is built to be tough, durable and weather resistant. There’s even a stand that makes this spreader much easier to pack.
Pros
- Durable and tough weather-resistant construction
- Maintenance-free wheels
- Automatic spacing and even spreading
Cons
- You have to fill the seed hopper for it to work
Who Should Buy?
Earthway 1001-B is for those who need more precision, especially when planting row crops. What’s more, it comes in handy for anyone who wants a more durable and weather-resistant equipment for the job.
#5. Agri-Fab 45-0463 130-Pound Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader
Editor's Rating: (4.1 / 5)
Agri-Fab enters the list to give you something that packs more, the Agri-Fab 45-0463. Coming from a well-respected manufacturer, this equipment doesn’t disappoint. The tow-behind design lets it make easy work of a vast lawn covering up to 1/2 an acre. Its extra-large hopper packs up to 130 pounds, which is enough to cover an area of 25,000 square feet.
This spreader takes ruggedness and durability to a whole new level. The large pneumatic tires make it more maneuverable and roll smoothly on all surfaces. A wide wheel base provides maximum stability that copes with any terrain. Agri-Fab 45-0463 is equipped with a durable enclosed gearbox made of aluminum and beveled for increased durability.
There are other optional accessories designed to improve the efficiency of this spreader. These include a cover that protects against weather and spills, a deflector shield (controls material flow), and grate kit (improves material flow and performance).
Pros
- Makes easy work of vast areas with a little effort
- Easy to control, which makes it totally user-friendly
- Even and fuss-free spreading of fertilizer
- Huge capacity of 130 pounds
- Great value for money
Cons
- The spreader doesn’t include a cover, grate and deflector
Who Should Buy?
Agri-Fab’s 45-0463 is for those with more ambitious fertilizing needs and who want a no-fuss workhorse that’s built to last.
#6. Scotts Easy Hand-Held Broadcast Spreader
Editor's Rating: 
(3.7 / 5)
If you don’t have trouble going manual in a handheld broadcast spreader, then Scotts has something for you. This is none other than the compact Easy Hand-Held Spreader. With its compact size, you get the convenience of easy handling and a more space-saving design. This spreader features a tough plastic construction that makes it rustproof and durable enough to last for longer.
The hopper packs enough to cover an area of up to 1,000 square feet. There’s a hand crank that engages the broadcaster. It sports an ergonomic design that works to minimize hand fatigue. This handheld spreader provides uniform coverage and comes cheap making it an affordable equipment to all. There’s no hassle in putting it together since the spreader comes fully assembled.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Tough and rustproof plastic construction
- Very cheap
- Comes fully assembled
Cons
- Requires a little physical effort to operate
#7. Scotts Pro EdgeGuard Broadcast Spreader
Editor's Rating: 
(3.9 / 5)
Scotts offers a walk-behind broadcast spreader that is perfect for large gardens. This is none other than Pro EdgeGuard, the largest and best broadcast spreader in the Scotts collection. This spreader sports a durable frame that’s designed to last. It is fitted with over-sized pneumatic tires that cope with all surfaces, even if the ground is a little uneven.
A totally user-friendly telescopic handle comes in handy to add more fun and comfort in the spreading task. The spreader has a precision setting rate control that is ideally calibrated. With it, you get more accurate coverage each time you step into the garden.
Neighboring lawns are nothing to worry about since Scotts EdgeGuard technology takes care of that. This patented technology lets you spread the fertilizer exactly where it’s needed. Scotts Pro EdgeGuard spreader holds enough to cover an area of up to 18,000 square feet. It’s a durable and efficient lawn spreader that represents brilliant value for money.
Pros
- Great for large sized lawns
- Large tires make it perfect for uneven surfaces
- Well-calibrated precision rate control provides ultimate accuracy
- EdgeGuard technology for controlled spreading
Cons
- Needs some physical effort to operate
- Expensive
Who Should Buy?
Scotts Pro EdgeGuard is an ideal purchase for one who’s willing to spend a little bit more on a large spreader that’s more durable and efficient.
Drop Spreader vs. Broadcast Spreader
Fertilizer spreaders come in different sizes from small handheld ones to the large and heavy-duty units that you have to pull with tractors. However, you can divide them into two main categories which are the drop spreader and the broadcast spreader which gardeners also refer to as the rotary spreader.
Drop Spreader
The drop spreader is famous for its accuracy when spreading fertilizers as it distributes it in some even rows. With this spreader, the fertilizer or seeds will only fall where you walk through, and the spreading pattern will only extend to the length of its wheels. And so you need to overlap your path each time you cross the lawn to ensure an even spread. Also, using a cross hatch pattern prevents stripping and provides even coverage.
Pros
#1. Precision
These spreaders will drop the fertilizer granules or seeds between the wheels and so the user will always have more control over where they want them to land. If you want something that will deliver your fertilizer with a lot of precision and eliminate the need to clean it up from sidewalks and driveways this is the tool for you.
#2. Wind Does Not Affect Performance
The design of these spreaders and the mechanism that they use to spread the seeds means that the wind does not affect their performance. Since the machine drops the product at one point at a time, you will never have to worry about the wind blowing it away.
#3. Easy Navigation
Most drop spreaders come with a wide wheel base which not only helps with the precision spreading but also makes navigation easy. With this tool, you can go around obstacles quickly, and it allows you to spread fertilizer and seed in tight spots.
Cons
#1. Covers Less Ground
The main demerit of using the drop spreader is that it covers less ground than the rotary and so you have to make many laps to fertilize the lawn adequately. And so spreading takes more time when using this tool.
Broadcast Spreader
Broadcast or rotary spreaders get their name from the fact that they spread seeds and fertilizers in a fan-like pattern and do it over large areas at ago. The size of the holes in the rotary spreader and the user's speed are the two important factors that determine the size of the spread pattern. Most of these spreaders will broadcast the seeds from the sides and front and in an arc shape.
Pros
#1. Cover More Ground Fast
The fact that the rotary spreaders will dispense the fertilizers from both the front and sides means that they can cover a large area at once. And so with these machines, you get to fertilize big yards within a short time.
#2. Large Capacity
In general, the broadcast spreaders will have a large hopper capacity than the drop types, and this minimizes the frequency of refilling when working on large areas.
#3. Perfect for Hard to Reach Places
The spread pattern of this tool makes it ideal for the hard to reach places because you can still get the fertilizer to these spots from a distance.
Cons
#1. Out of Bounds Spreading
When using these tools, you should be ready to do a lot of cleaning in sidewalks or driveways because they tend to spread the products out of bounds. Apart from a lot of cleaning up after work the fan-like spread pattern also wastes a lot of product.
When to Use Drop Spreader or Broadcast Spreader
The size of your lawn/yard and the level of precision that you want are the two features that will determine when to use the drop or broadcast spreader. If you have large lawns (more than 5,000 feet) the rotary spreader is the right tool for you because it covers vast areas fast. For small yards and when you need to spread your seeds or fertilizers with a lot of precision, the drop spreader will be the best option.
Criteria for Buying Fertilizer Spreader
Buying a fertilizer spreader isn’t something that you just wake up and do it. It requires careful consideration in order to get a spreader that will give great value for every penny spent. Having said that, the following are the factors you need to keep in mind when purchasing a fertilizer spreader.
#1. Lawn Size
It’s quite unreasonable to use a 25,000 square feet spreader on a lawn that measures 1,000 square feet. Therefore, before going to the market for a new spreader, you need to first estimate the size of your lawn. Handheld spreaders would generally work great on small lawns. Medium to large lawns require a push/walk-behind spreader. Vast lawns would do great with a tow-behind spreader.
#2. Spread Pattern
What spread pattern do you need? Well, there are two spread patterns: broadcast and drop. Broadcast provides a much quicker way of applying fertilizer as it covers a large area. However, it lacks when it comes to precision spreading, something that you get in a drop spreader.
#3. Brand
Like any other products, fertilizer spreaders don’t sport the same quality. This means that you need to go for the best brand within a specified price range. A good brand will provide excellent after sales support not to mention a warranty that cushions you in case of any problems with parts or poor craftsmanship. Examples of brands worth trying are Scotts, Earthway, Agri-Fab, among others.
#4. Price
Price matters a lot when it comes to purchasing a fertilizer spreader. It’s not uncommon to get a highly priced spreader that doesn’t perform accordingly. Therefore, the trick is to go for the best quality within a certain price range. Don’t be surprised to get a cheap spreader that outdo a more expensive one.
#5. User Reviews
Reading fertilizer spreader reviews is a perfect way of knowing the reaction of those that have used the products. From the reviews, you’ll get to know the advantages and disadvantages associated with the different spreaders. Armed with such information, you’ll be able to get enough confidence in making your purchase decision. One of the best places to get user reviews is Amazon.
Conclusion
Lawn maintenance is essential, especially if you want your lawn or garden to stand out. The above fertilizer spreaders are specially designed to help you achieve that. Now it’s up to you to choose the model that suits you best based on the purchase criteria we’ve provided.
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Last Updated on January 27, 2020 by