Best Fertilizer Spreaders in 2022

If there is one thing common to just about every home in America, it is a lush green lawn. A carefully maintained patch of green is just what you need to highlight your home. And if you take pride in your top-notch lawn, then you know that it demands an investment of time and equipment.

Topping the list of basic tools needed for a healthy, lush green lawn is the best fertilizer spreader. This machine spreads granular fertilizers, pesticides, insecticides, and even seeds uniformly throughout the lawn. Moreover, you can use it for spreading ice-melting materials in winters. If you are looking for the best lawn fertilizer spreader, it is important to assess the use of the machine and the requirements of your lawn.

If you have many ornamental bushes, your spreader will be useful in applying insecticides and chemicals. You may also want to determine the kind of insecticides or fertilizers you prefer for your lawn as drop spreaders have different port sizes. Based on these different requirements you can choose one of the following top-rated fertilizer spreaders available in the market:

Comparison of 7 Best Fertilizer Spreaders in 2022

Top 7 Best Fertilizer Spreader Reviews in 2022

1. Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Spreader

Scotts Turf-Builder EdgeGuard DLX is the best quality fertilizer spreader that easily performs many different tasks. You can use it for spreading grass seed, fertilizers, and even salt and ice in winters. Its exclusive EdgeGuard technology guarantees a more accurate coverage and holds up to 15,000 sq. feet of Scotts lawn care products.

You can use the EdgeGuard DLX in summer, spring, fall, and winter for spreading seeds, fertilizers, and ice-melting salts on walkways/driveways. It is the best machine for reducing the uneven spreading of seeds and lawn-care products (which can result in improper grass growth and also cause diseases, weeds, and insects).

This versatile spreader comes in two modes: EdgeGuard and standard. It allows you to walk-behind it as you broadcast and evenly distribute any Scotts products like insecticides etc. Scotts Turf-Builder EdgeGuard DLX is the best drop spreader for fertilizer for medium-sized areas that need precise application.

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2. Scotts Turf Builder Classic Drop Spreader

The best part about Scotts Turf Builder Classic Drop Spreader is that it comes fully assembled and ready to use. This large drop spreader has a capacity of 10,000 square feet of seed, fertilizers, etc. You will love the spreader’s 22-inch spread pattern that has maximum coverage and accuracy.

Did we mention that it is pre-calibrated and ready to use? Heavy-duty yet lightweight frame of Scotts Turf Builder Classic Drop Spreader is built to last. This best spreader for fertilizer is also designed for precision and accuracy so there is no mistaking about it.

Do note that this spreader is not useful for spreading ice-melting salts or de-icers in winters. Scotts Turf Builder Classic Drop Spreader has easy adjustments and also comes with an edge guard that is easy to use.

3. Earthway 2150 Commercial Broadcast Spreader

The Earthway 2150 commercial spreader is proudly made in the USA. It promises an even spreading pattern and a feathered spreading edge for more accurate applications of seeds, fertilizers, or ice-melting salts. It even has the facility to accommodate narrow sections of the lawn.

This walk-behind push best fertilizer spreader has a durable and sturdy design making it easy and smooth for pushing. Its gearbox is fully enclosed and that design feature keeps it protected from moisture. The enclosed design also prevents the gearbox from being blocked or clogged and that eases the spreading process further.

Earthway 2150 commercial spreader has a powder-coated rust-proof metal body and large pneumatic tires which won’t go flat. Its handle is also adjustable so you can increase/decrease the height based on the operator’s height. The Earthway 2150 commercial spreader’s frame has a total load-bearing capacity of 175 lb and allows you to spread 50 lb of salt, seeds, or fertilizers in one go. It has a throwing distance of about 18 to 36 feet.

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4. Chapin 8620B Tow Behind Spreader

The Chapin 8620B 150 has a capacity of 150lb which means that you can easily seed or fertilize a large lawn within minutes. Its convenient auto-stop feature stops the spreading action when motion stops. The large 14” pneumatic wheels ensure ease of maneuverability no matter what the terrain.

The Chapin’s gearbox has oil-impregnated bearings that minimize friction and further ease movement. This tow-behind best fertilizer spreader is made for the professionals or commercial farmers but many homeowners love it as well.

Chapin 8620B has a convenient heavy-duty trailer hitch design and it is proudly manufactured in the USA. This makes it easy to reach customer support of the Company, should you need any assistance. The assembly and user manual are available with the product and are also available online.

With the Chapin 8620B, you won’t have to keep reaching back for levers and controls while spreading the seeds/fertilizers. The spreader’s auto-stop feature prevents unnecessary spreading when motion stops and that keeps your lawns from burning.

5. Agri-Fab Push Broadcast Spreader

The Agri-Fab push broadcast spreader has received some of the best fertilizer spreader reviews. It can efficiently cultivate your lawn with a wide distribution of fertilizer with a capacity of 14,000 square feet. The spreader’s pneumatic wheels are sturdy and do not have leaks. This way; you don’t have to keep filling them with air.

The dimensions of the broadcast spreader, once fully assembled, are 35 x 22 x 33 inches. The spreader also comes with a 3-year warranty. Agri-Fab Push Broadcast Spreader has a spreading range of 10 feet with a weight-bearing capacity of 85 lb.

With proper care and use, this spreader is built-to-last for years. Use it to add seed in barren areas of your lawn and, in summers, use it to fertilize and feed the turf. Agri-Fab Push Broadcast Spreader is easy to assemble and use.

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6. Field Tuff AS-80ATV12 Receiver Mount Spreader

Want a spreader that gives value for money, is easy to assemble and use, and helps easily spread seed or fertilizer for lawn and turf building? Then go in for the Field Tuff AS-80ATV Mount Spreader which can easily be mounted on an ATV, UTV, or tractors – as long as the vehicle has a receiver.

The heavy-duty spreader has a capacity of 80 lb and a broadcast width of 12 feet. It can easily hold 8 gallons of grass seed, fertilizer, and even small grains. Field Tuff’s strong motor has a speed of 570 rpm which and it is reliable and sturdy. The unit comes with a rain-cover and its installation is fairly easy. There is also a convenient On-Off switch.

7. Craftsman Tow Broadcast Spreader

The Craftsman CMXGZBF7124571 is a broadcast spreader with a 10-ft spread. Its 10-inch pneumatic tires allow for smooth transport over all kinds of terrain and need no filling. The spreader has a long- life due to its heavy-duty steel gear, rust-proof metal body, heat-treated gear and sprocket, solid-steel axle, and ¾ inch tubing.

Being a universal-type of spreader, the Craftsman CMXGZBF7124571 attaches easily to all tractors through a hitch-pin. It has been proudly manufactured in the USA and its 110 lb capacity can easily and evenly cover an area of 1/3^rd acre. The unit’s sturdy spreader impeller evenly distributes material and you will require fewer stops for refilling. Craftsman CMXGZBF7124571 also has On/Off control accessible from standard rider seats.

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Important Factors to Consider When Selecting a Fertilizer Spreader

Before you select the best fertilizer spreader, take some time to study the requirements of your lawn and the kind of use your machine will be put to. Here are some factors that can help you select the best quality fertilizer spreader:

Kind of Plants You Have

If you have numerous ornamental and flowering plants, you will want a spreader that offers the greatest control over the application of chemicals. Some chemicals are designed for lawn treatment and they are unsuitable for ornamental or flowering plants. So select the spreader based on the application.

If you want the spreader to only treat the lawn area, go in for drop spreaders as this only spreads in the area beneath the metering ports. Drop spreaders are typically suitable for smaller or shorter lawns. Taller grass especially if it is wet can create problems for spreading and would not allow the spreader to drop in areas closer to the ground.

Attachment/Walk-Behind Type

If you have a tractor/ATV and wish to use the spreader with that, then choose a model that can be attached to the vehicle you own. Alternatively, go in for a push-along or walk-behind model with pneumatic tires that can be moved with ease over any terrain.

Size of Fertilizer Granules

Fertilizer granules vary in size. So, you need to select the fertilizer based on the kind your spreader’s port allows. Conversely, you may want to switch your fertilizer type to one that can pass through the port of your spreader. Many top-rated fertilizer spreaders manufacturers also make products that go with their spreaders. However, you need to ensure that these suit the needs of your lawn/turf.

Size of Your Turf

Larger lawns do better with rotary spreaders since this type of spreaders cover a wider area within minutes and can get the job done quickly. Depending on the rotary spreader manufactures, it can easily cover a wider area using a 2 ½ to 10 feet swath.

However, wider swaths also mean less even or uneven distribution. That is why; you’d need to sacrifice speed if you want a more even or uniform spread. The downside of rotary spreaders is that the chemical particles are also likely to fall on areas you don’t want to be covered.

Materials Used/Durability

Precision metering components of drop spreaders demand that they have metal or steel bodies that are prone to rust and corrosion. Therefore, you need to ensure wiping down the machines after each use. To prevent rusting and enhance their durability, some manufacturers have started giving an epoxy coating to their units. Rotary spreaders can use plastic components as they have a wider port opening and do not need precision metering like drop spreaders.

Winter Use

Many homeowners also want their spreaders to spread salt or de-icing chemicals in winters. Not all spreaders perform that task so choose units that allow these chemicals as well.

Tips for Using Your Fertilizer Spreader More Effectively

1. Pick the kind of fertilizer spreader that suits your needs. Remember, there’s no one “best fertilizer spreader” that suits every situation. Therefore, you’re the one who needs to judge which would be the best.
2. Ensure your soil isn’t all hard and compact before you go out there with your fertilizer spreader. If it’s too compact, use a lawn aerator beforehand.
3. Another thing that helps fertilizer reach the soil more effectively is mowing the lawn before using a fertilizer spreader. Mow the lawn a few days before you plan to fertilize, and you can even count on the grass clippings to enrich the soil to some extent.
4. Just like you should check the weather before aerating or mowing your lawn, you should do so before fertilization as well. Rain, wind, humidity, or even overly bright or hot days are unsuitable for fertilization. Make sure to pick a day that’s as mild as possible.
5. Like how I advised you to pick the correct fertilizer spreader, you should also carefully choose your fertilizer.
6. Finally, make sure you take proper care of your fertilizer spreader so that its durability isn’t compromised.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How Can I Clean a Fertilizer Spreader?

A: To clean a fertilizer spreader, you start by emptying the hopper. Then, use a rag or compressed air to eliminate the residues and granules stuck in the spreader regions. Also, wash the spreader and watch out for the moving parts and crevices where the debris might be. After this, let the spreader dry properly and keep it in a location with no sunlight.

Q: How Do Fertilizer Spreaders Function?

A: Many fertilizer spreaders come with manual operation. The best fertilizer spreader has a spray dispenser that helps you spread the soil’s fertilizer in a liquid form. Besides, some state-of-the-art fertilizer spreaders throw granules like a sprinkler. Also, you can connect your fertilizer spreader to your tractors and trucks while driving across your field.

Q: How Can I Use My Fertilizer Spreader?

A: Several fertilizer spreaders come with a user’s manual that comes with sufficient information on using it, particularly the proper settings for any product you spread. The label informs you of the volume of pounds to apply for every 1000 square feet. If you don’t understand the guidelines, it is crucial to reach out to a professional to prevent mistakes.

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Conclusion

The best fertilizer spreader is easy to use, has a large capacity, and comes with large pneumatic tires that can be moved with ease or with an attachment facility to conveniently hitch up to an ATV or a tractor. We recommend the Scotts Turf-Builder EdgeGuard DLX for its sturdy construction, large capacity, ease of maneuvering, and easy assembly as well. Also, check out our other recommendations in the list of top-rated fertilizer spreaders as well.