How to Use a Broadcast Spreader Without Wasting Seed or Fertilizer
If you need to apply fertilizer, weed killer, or other herbicides on the ground, a standard broadcast spreader is crucial to you. You can’t even think of having an accurate distribution of fertilizer unless you utilize a spreader.
Do you actually know what a broadcast spreader is? To have a far-reaching outcome on farming, you must be familiar with a broadcast spreader. However, we’re going to discuss it in this article; you should look forward to it.
What Is A Broadcast Spreader?
A broadcast spreader is farm equipment used for spreading fertilizer, weed killer, lime, seed, ice melt, sand, and so on. You can distribute all those ingredients at the proper rate into your field, lawn, or plant nursery. As a result, your plants will find the nutrients as much as they need.
A broadcast spreader is designed with a large material hopper. The hopper is placed over a horizontal spinning disk to ensure the effortless spreading advantage. To control the direction of the materials, a spreader comes with directional fins. Moreover, it features a hand-carrying unit to deliver much comfort in use.
Benefits of Using a Broadcast Spreader
Using a broadcast spreader offers several practical benefits that can make lawn care easier and more effective. This handy tool evenly spreads seeds, fertilizers, and even pesticides across your yard, helping to promote uniform growth and reduce patchy or over-treated spots.
Here are three key benefits of using a broadcast spreader:
| Benefit | Why It Matters |
| Even Distribution | Ensures consistent lawn coverage without clumps or bare patches |
| Time-Saving Efficiency | Covers large areas quickly, reducing manual labor |
| Reduced Over-Fertilization Risk | Helps avoid burnt grass and chemical buildup |
Instead of guessing where you’ve already applied product, a spreader does the work for you—accurately and consistently. Whether you’re a weekend gardener or a full-time lawn enthusiast, this tool helps you achieve better results in less time.
| Check out: How To Fix A Scotts Broadcast Spreader |
How to Use a Broadcast Spreader
As a beginner, many people struggle with using a broadcast spreader. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s crucial to fully understand the operation and definition of a broadcast spreader. Otherwise, you can’t apply it in a proper way. The step-by-step user guides are given below.
Purchase an ideal broadcast spreader.
Before you know the process of use, you have to be sensible enough to purchase the perfect spreader. Otherwise, it will be tough to cope with the spreader and manage the proper distribution of materials. For general application, you must go for a spreader that can release fertilizer or other materials fast.
Besides, you must choose a spreader that comes with a lightweight and durable design so that you can control it with ease. You will find some tow-behind broadcast spreaders in the market. Those will be comfortable for you to use.
Measure the area.
After purchasing a perfect spreader, now it’s time to move on to the practical step. Before starting the distribution of the fertilizer, you have to measure the area that you’re going to fertilize. Otherwise, you will incur significant costs. You can use tape to measure the actual width and length of the area.
Keep in mind that a broadcast spreader is suitable for a large area. So, you can easily spread fertilizer onto the large area using the broadcast spreader. Just multiply the value of length and width to determine the whole area.
Move the spreader to a sidewalk and fill it up.
Once you’ve determined the total area to fertilize, now it’s time to move the spreader to a driveway. It’s crucial to sweep up the spills. Don’t forget to close the flow lever placed near the handle before filling up the fertilizer or other materials.
Considering the area of your land, you have to fill the spreader with the proper amount of fertilizer. Make sure you’ve done everything accurately to have a better outcome.
Look for the distribution rate.
As you’re almost ready to spread fertilizer on your ground, look for a distribution rate between one and ten. Also, locate the rate dial on the spreader to spread the fertilizer appropriately. You will find the dial or lever below the handle.
Following the fertilizer bag, you have to move the dial of the spreader until you’ve reached the indicated rate. You can carry out a suitable distribution if you complete this step intelligently.
Push the handle to begin spreading.
To begin spreading fertilizer with a broadcast spreader, you must push the handle precisely. But don’t start spreading unless you place the spreader at one end of the area. You shouldn’t stand right on the edges as the spreader throws the fertilizer out to the side.
Moreover, you have to walk slowly and steadily to cover the entire area accurately. Whenever you reach the starting point, you should stop the operation immediately. To stop dispensing fertilizer on the ground, just release the handle.
Turn the spreader around and apply another strip.
After completing a strip successfully, you have to be ready to start another one. So, shift the spreader slightly to the new dispensing area and move it beside the starting location. Then squeeze the handle and walk along to complete another strip.
You have to continue spreading fertilizer by turning the spreader around. Until you’ve covered the entire area, you should keep doing that to have the expected outcome. Make sure one strip overlaps another strip by six to twelve inches.
Water the area and rinse off the spreader.
Once you’ve completed spreading fertilizer to the whole ground, you have to water the area with sprinklers. You should keep watering until the soil becomes damp to a one-inch depth.
Then you have to rinse off the spreader entirely. To remove all fertilizer from the broadcast spreader, you can use a garden hose. If you can perform this step correctly, you’ve gained the skill of applying a broadcast spreader thoroughly.
Maintenance Tips for Your Broadcast Spreader
Taking care of your broadcast spreader isn’t just a beneficial habit—it’s the key to keeping it running smoothly for years. After each use, rinse off any leftover fertilizer, seed, or pesticide to prevent corrosion and clogging. A clean spreader ensures better performance the next time you roll it out.
Here are some simple storage tips to protect your equipment during the off-season:
- Store in a dry place away from direct sunlight
- Hang it on a wall to avoid moisture buildup on wheels
- Cover it with a tarp or plastic sheet to keep out dust
| Maintenance Task | How Often | Why It Matters |
| Clean after each use | Every time | Prevents buildup and rust |
| Check moving parts | Monthly | Ensures smooth operation |
| Lubricate wheels/gears | Every 2-3 months | Reduces wear and tear |
If you notice uneven spreading or clunky movement, check for clogged openings, misaligned wheels, or old product stuck inside. Paying attention to these details can make a significant difference!
Now we’re going to answer some frequently asked questions related to the broadcast spreader.
FAQs on Broadcast Spreader
Are all broadcast spreader settings the same?
Almost all the broadcast spreaders have the same setting method. If you find something exceptional, you can follow the setting manually.
Can you use a broadcast spreader for topsoil?
In most cases, you can use a broadcast spreader for topsoil. It’s straightforward and simple to spread topsoil through a broadcast spreader.
Can I use a broadcast spreader for grass seed?
A broadcast spreader is useful for spreading grass seed. So, you can use a broadcast spreader to have quick grass seed distribution.
Final Thought
A broadcast spreader is a blessing of modern technology in agriculture. It makes the spreading process fast and efficient. After reading this article, you obviously know what a broadcast spreader is and how to use it. So, now it’s time to utilize it in your practical life.
