The Best Fertilizer Spreaders To Maintain A Healthy And Lush Lawn
Lush green grass is usually the goal for lawns, but you can’t typically achieve those professional-looking results by leaving things to chance. That’s where a fertilizer spreader comes in. The best fertilizer spreaders evenly distribute vital nutrients your lawn needs while making the often tedious process as easy as possible on you. Our top pick is the Scotts Elite Spreader for its efficient spreading and comfortable feel.
The Scotts Elite Spreader is packed with features to make fertilizing your lawn a breeze, and at a … [+]
If you have a lawn that you maintain, it’s a good idea to consider a fertilizer spreader. “They are designed to evenly distribute fertilizer across a larger area than what you could do by hand, resulting in better coverage,” says Tom Monson, owner of Monson Lawn & Landscaping, a lawn care company based in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Unevenly distributing fertilizer can result in patchy grass, says Noah James, owner of Liberty Lawn Maintenance, a lawn maintenance company based in Surrey, Canada. “By evenly distributing fertilizer across your lawn or garden, you can ensure that every inch of your space is getting the nutrients it needs to flourish,” he says. “This translates into a lush, healthy and vibrant landscape that is the envy of your neighborhood.”
To choose the right fertilizer spreader, you’ll want to consider factors like the size of your lawn, capacity of the spreader and whether you prefer to push, tow or use a handheld spreader. It’s also important to consider if a broadcast or drop spreader is better suited for your needs (more on making that decision below). Your budget is a factor, too.
With these factors in mind, below we rounded up the best fertilizer spreaders on the market to help you get professional-grade grass on your own. (To take your lawn care to the next level, consider our lists of the best lawn edgers, lawn mowers and weed whackers.)
- Best Fertilizer Spreader Overall: Scotts Elite Spreader
- Best Fertilizer Spreader for Small Yards: Instead Go Getter Spreader
- Best Budget Fertilizer Spreader: Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini
- Best Fertilizer Spreader for Large Yards: Agri-Fab 45-0462 Push Broadcast Spreader
- Best Handheld Fertilizer Spreader: Ryobi One+ 18-Volt One-Gallon Spreader
- Best Fertilizer Spreader With Aerator: Brinly-Hardy Tow-Behind Combination Aerator Spreader
How We Chose The Best Fertilizer Spreaders
To choose the best fertilizer spreaders, we consulted three lawn care experts for their input on important features to look for in these tools. We also analyzed the most popular spreaders on the market for elements like capacity, durability, comfort and ease of use. Reviews from owners were factored in as well to ensure we had the most accurate view of how the fertilizer spreaders we chose performed across a range of lawns.
Do I Really Need A Fertilizer Spreader?
If you maintain your own lawn, experts say it’s a good idea to have a fertilizer spreader. “The benefit of using a fertilizer spreader is that it ensures even distribution of the material, which helps to avoid over-fertilization in some areas and under-fertilization in others,” says Lindsey Hyland, founder of gardening advice website Urban Organic Yield. “A spreader gives you more control over where the fertilizer goes and how much is applied at each location.” This, she points out, also helps prevent wasted product and ensures your lawn is optimally nourished. Using fertilizer, along with a fertilizer spreader, is an important tool in creating a thick, full lawn, James says. “Whether you’re a weekend gardener or a professional, a fertilizer spreader is the smart choice for anyone looking to elevate their landscaping game,” he says.
What’s The Best Fertilizer Spreader On The Market?
The best fertilizer spread is ultimately one that meets your needs. However, the Scotts Elite Spreader is a great choice for most homeowners. It has dual rotors to help you get the job done fast, along with nice perks like a comfortable grip and phone holder. It can also cover nearly half an acre in one go. If you have a smaller yard, though, consider the Instead Go Getter Spreader or Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini. Both cover 5,000 square feet of yard before needing a refill and have a lower price tag than counterparts with a higher capacity.
What’s Better: A Broadcast Spreader Or Drop Spreader?
It depends on your needs, as well as your personal preference. “Broadcast spreaders are great for larger lawns, while drop spreaders work best for smaller areas,” Monson says. “Both types of spreaders allow you to precisely control how much fertilizer you are applying and can save you time and effort.” Broadcast spreaders tend to be more common for homeowner use, though. “The trusty broadcast spreader blankets your lawn with precision, spreading seed and fertilizer evenly over your entire yard. Not to mention, it saves you time and energy,” James says. “Meanwhile, the drop spreader strategically drops material where it’s needed most. No more worries about wind or misplaced materials.” Keep this in mind, too, per James: “The right spreader for you is ultimately the one that gets the job done right, every time. As long as you’re seeing healthy, thriving growth in your lawn, I consider that a huge success.”