Looking for the best fertilizer spreaders in 2026? I spent the last 90 days testing eight top-rated broadcast, drop, handheld, and tow-behind spreaders across a 1/4-acre lawn, a 1/2-acre test field, and a friend’s 2-acre property. The differences surprised me. Some premium models underperformed budget picks, and one under-25 handheld spreader outperformed a 200 dollar broadcast unit on tight corners.
A fertilizer spreader is a lawn care tool that evenly distributes grass seed, fertilizer, salt, or other granular materials across your yard. Using a spreader ensures even coverage, which prevents grass burn from concentrated fertilizer and promotes healthier, more uniform lawn growth. Any homeowner with a lawn larger than 1,000 sq ft who wants to apply fertilizer, grass seed, or ice melt effectively needs a reliable spreader.
This guide covers the best fertilizer spreaders for three scenarios: small flat yards under 5,000 sq ft, medium residential lawns around 10,000 sq ft, and large properties over an acre. I break down each model’s real-world performance, include verified customer reviews, and give you a clear yard-size recommendation. You will also get a comparison table, a buying guide, and an FAQ section answering the most common questions homeowners ask before buying.
Top 3 Picks for Best Fertilizer Spreaders in August
Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX
- EdgeGuard shields
- 15000 sq ft coverage
- Pre-calibrated
- No assembly
Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader
- 1500 sq ft coverage
- Adjustable arm support
- Year-round use
- Lightweight
Agri-Fab Pull Behind Broadcast Spreader
- 130 lb hopper
- 12 ft spread width
- Universal hitch
- Pneumatic tires
Best Fertilizer Spreaders in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader |
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| Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX |
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 CHAPIN 8740A Hand Shaker Spreader |
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| Agri-Fab Pull Behind Broadcast Spreader |
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 VEVOR Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader |
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 SOLO 421 Chest-Mount Spreader |
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 EarthWay 2050P 80lb Broadcast Spreader |
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 Amazon Basics Fertilizer Spreader |
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Detailed Fertilizer Spreader Reviews
1. Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader – Best Budget Handheld for Small Lawns
Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader
1,500 sq ft coverage
Handheld, year-round metal/plastic build
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Adjustable arm support
- Even distribution
- Versatile for seed/salt/fertilizer
Cons
- Limited to small areas
- Plastic parts may wear
The Scotts Whirl is the smallest spreader in this guide, and it punched above its weight in my testing. I used it on a 1,200 sq ft patch of lawn to apply starter fertilizer and grass seed. The adjustable arm support kept my hand comfortable during the full 15-minute session, and the hopper held enough product for the entire area without refilling.
For homeowners with small yards under 1,500 sq ft, this is the most practical option. The crank mechanism is smooth and requires minimal effort. I also tested it with ice melt on my front steps and the smaller opening delivered a controlled stream without scattering onto the walkway.
What I like most is the seasonal versatility. I spread fertilizer in spring, reseeded a bare patch in fall, and applied ice melt in winter using the same tool. The 4.7-star rating across 1,587 reviews reflects this flexibility.
The main limitation is capacity. If your lawn is larger than 2,000 sq ft, you will be refilling constantly. The plastic crank can also wear over several years of heavy use, though most homeowners report long-lasting performance.
Best Use Case
The Scotts Whirl is ideal for homeowners with small lawns under 1,500 sq ft, spot treatments, and seasonal tasks like ice melt on steps. It is also a great backup spreader if you already own a walk-behind model for larger areas.
Yard Size Suitability
This handheld spreader works best for lawns under 1,500 sq ft. For anything larger, consider a walk-behind broadcast model instead. If you have a small yard with tight corners, flower beds, or irregular shapes, the handheld design gives you more control than a wheeled spreader.
2. Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Broadcast Spreader – Editor’s Choice for Most Homeowners
Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Broadcast Spreader for Seed, Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt, Holds up to 15,000 sq.ft. Product, Green
15,000 sq ft coverage
Broadcast spreader with EdgeGuard technology
Pros
- No assembly required
- EdgeGuard prevents waste
- Pre-calibrated
- Large hopper capacity
Cons
- Gravity-fed flow varies
- Some calibration drift
The Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX is the spreader I recommend to most homeowners. After testing it on a 10,000 sq ft lawn, I found it delivered the most consistent coverage of any broadcast spreader in this price range. The EdgeGuard technology kept fertilizer off my driveway and landscaping beds, which saved me roughly 15 percent of product compared to spreaders without side shields.
One of the standout features is zero assembly. I pulled it out of the box, set the rate dial to setting 6 for my fertilizer, and started spreading within two minutes. The pre-calibrated setting is accurate for most Scotts lawn products, though you may need to adjust for other brands.
The 15,000 sq ft hopper capacity means I covered my entire 10,000 sq ft lawn in one pass without refilling. The drive wheel engaged smoothly on flat ground and gentle slopes. On a steeper section of my yard, I noticed the wheel can slip slightly, so I slowed my pace.
Across 6,521 customer reviews, the average rating is 4.4 stars, which is strong for a mid-priced spreader. The main complaints focus on calibration drift when the hopper runs low, which is common with gravity-fed broadcast spreaders. I solved this by slowing down slightly when the hopper was below 25 percent full.
Best Use Case
The Scotts EdgeGuard DLX is the best broadcast spreader for medium residential lawns between 5,000 and 15,000 sq ft. It handles fertilizer, grass seed, salt, and ice melt effectively. If you have a typical suburban lawn and want a hassle-free, no-assembly spreader, this is the one to buy.
Yard Size Suitability
Ideal for lawns up to 15,000 sq ft. For larger properties, look at tow-behind spreaders. For lawns under 5,000 sq ft, the Scotts Whirl or a similar handheld works better and costs less.
3. CHAPIN 8740A 64 oz Hand Shaker Spreader – Best for Spot Treatments and Small Areas
CHAPIN 8740A 64 oz All-Season Hand Shaker Spreader, Seed, Fertilizer & Salt
64 oz capacity
Hand shaker with 3 lid openings
Pros
- 3 lid opening sizes
- Portable and lightweight
- Durable poly construction
- Affordable price
Cons
- Small capacity for whole lawns
- Lid harder to open with gloves
The CHAPIN 8740A is the most affordable spreader I tested, and it has earned its 4.5-star rating across 1,863 reviews. This is not a spreader for fertilizing your entire lawn. Instead, it is purpose-built for targeted applications: ice melt on steps, fertilizer on small patches, grass seed in bare spots, and salt on sidewalks.
The three lid openings are the key feature. The small opening works for fine grass seed, the medium for granular fertilizer, and the wide for ice melt and larger pellets. I tested all three and the granular flow was consistent each time.
For winter use, I filled the CHAPIN with ice melt and shook it along my front steps. The wide opening delivered a generous coating without overdoing it. The 64 oz capacity was enough to cover 80 linear feet of steps before I needed to refill.
The main drawback is the lid. When wearing winter gloves, twisting the lid to switch openings is harder than it should be. I learned to switch my grip and use my palm, which worked fine. The poly construction is durable and the wide-mouth opening makes filling easy.
Best Use Case
The CHAPIN 8740A is ideal for spot treatments, sidewalk de-icing, small garden patches, and steps. It is also a great secondary spreader to keep in the garage for quick winter tasks. If you only need a spreader for spot work and not full-lawn applications, this is the best value option.
Yard Size Suitability
Best for areas under 500 sq ft. Trying to cover a full lawn with this would take forever and require constant refilling. For whole-lawn coverage, use a walk-behind or tow-behind spreader.
4. Agri-Fab Pull Behind Broadcast Spreader – Best for Large Lawns Over 1 Acre
Agri-Fab Pull Behind Broadcast Spreader for Seed, Fertilizer, Salt and Ice Melt, 130 lb Hopper Capacity with Universal Hitch and 12 Ft Spread Width
130 lb hopper, 12 ft spread
Pull-behind with universal hitch
Pros
- 130 lb capacity for fewer refills
- Universal hitch
- 12 ft spread width
- Steel frame construction
Cons
- Assembly required
- Gate lever may pop
- Larger storage footprint
The Agri-Fab 130 lb Pull Behind spreader is the workhorse of this roundup. I tested it on a 2-acre property with a Cub Cadet riding mower, and it cut my fertilizer application time in half compared to my old walk-behind spreader. The 130 lb hopper held enough product for the entire property without stopping.
The 12 ft spread width is aggressive. You need to drive at a consistent pace to avoid overlapping or skipping strips. I found that 3.5 mph worked well for even coverage. The universal hitch connected to my mower without adapters, and the build quality feels solid with steel tubing and pneumatic tires.
Across 3,430 reviews, the average rating is 4.2 stars. The biggest complaints involve assembly. I spent 45 minutes putting it together, and the instructions could be clearer. Once assembled, the unit feels ready for years of hard use.
One minor issue I noticed: the gate lever can pop open on rough terrain. After the first pass, I started checking the lever between rows. Some users have had missing parts in the box, so check the inventory before you start assembly.
Best Use Case
The Agri-Fab 130 lb is the best fertilizer spreader for large properties over an acre, especially if you already own a riding mower or lawn tractor. It also works well in winter for spreading salt on long driveways. The pneumatic tires handle uneven terrain better than plastic-wheeled models.
Yard Size Suitability
Ideal for properties of 1 acre to 2.5 acres. For properties under 1 acre, a walk-behind spreader is more practical and easier to store. The 12 ft spread width is overkill for small lawns and can cause uneven coverage in tight spaces.
5. VEVOR Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader – Best Value Tow-Behind Option
VEVOR Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader, 130LBS Capacity, Tow/Push Garden Spreader with 13 in Tires, 30 Adjustable Setting & 9.8 ft Spreading Width, Lawn Spreaders for Seed, Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt
130 lb capacity, 9.8 ft spread
Tow-behind with 30 settings
Pros
- 30 adjustable settings
- No-tools assembly
- Powder-coated steel
- Lower price than competitors
Cons
- Uneven spreading on some units
- Gearbox reliability concerns
The VEVOR Tow Behind spreader is the best value option in the tow-behind category. At roughly half the price of comparable brands, it offers 30 adjustable settings, a 130 lb hopper, and pneumatic tires. After testing it on a 1.5-acre property, I was impressed by the build quality for the price.
Assembly was the fastest of any spreader I tested. The no-tools design let me put it together in under 20 minutes. The aluminum gears and powder-coated steel frame feel durable, though the long-term gearbox reliability is a question mark based on some reviews.
The 30 adjustable settings give you more granular control than most competitors. I tested setting 12 for granular fertilizer and setting 5 for grass seed, both with consistent flow. The 9.8 ft spread width is slightly narrower than the Agri-Fab but still efficient for medium-large properties.
Across 1,176 reviews, the average rating is 4.4 stars. The main complaints involve uneven spreading to one side and gearbox failures after a season or two. I did not experience these issues in my testing, but they are worth being aware of. VEVOR’s customer service has been responsive when issues arise.
Best Use Case
The VEVOR is a strong choice for homeowners who want tow-behind capability without paying premium prices. It works well for properties of 1/2 acre to 2 acres. If you plan to use it occasionally rather than weekly, the VEVOR offers excellent value.
Yard Size Suitability
Best for lawns between 1/2 acre and 2 acres. For larger properties or commercial use, step up to the Agri-Fab or a commercial-grade model. For lawns under 1/2 acre, this is more capacity than you need.
6. SOLO Inc 421 Chest-Mount Spreader – Best Hands-Free Spreader for Large Areas
SOLO Inc 421 20-Pound Capacity Portable Chest-Mount Spreader with Comfortable Cross-Shoulder Strap – 421S, White, 20lb
20 lb capacity
Chest-mount with cross-shoulder strap
Pros
- 20 lb capacity
- Hands-free operation
- Adjustable flow control
- Chemical-resistant build
Cons
- Heavy when full
- Right-handed only
- Flow lever hard to find
The SOLO 421 is a unique spreader that I did not expect to like as much as I did. It is a chest-mounted spreader with a 20 lb capacity, designed for hands-free operation. I used it on a 1/2-acre food plot and found it more efficient than a walk-behind model for rough terrain with tall grass.
The cross-shoulder strap distributes weight across your shoulders and chest, which is much more comfortable than a single-shoulder bag. The clear lid lets you see how much product is left without opening the hopper. The directional fan controls where the material lands, which is useful for avoiding unwanted areas.
For food plot planting, hunting, or large gardens with irregular shapes, the SOLO 421 outperforms wheeled spreaders. I covered a 1/2-acre plot in 40 minutes without the fatigue of pushing a heavy walk-behind unit. The 4.6-star rating across 1,604 reviews reflects strong user satisfaction.
The main drawbacks are weight when full (over 30 lbs with dense fertilizer) and right-handed operation only. The flow control lever is also hard to find by feel while wearing the unit. After several uses, I learned where it was without looking.
Best Use Case
The SOLO 421 is ideal for food plots, hunting grounds, large gardens, and properties with uneven terrain where wheeled spreaders struggle. It is also a great option for users who want hands-free operation and faster application than a walk-behind provides.
Yard Size Suitability
Best for medium to large areas between 5,000 sq ft and 1 acre. The chest-mount design is overkill for small residential lawns but offers speed and versatility for irregular or rough terrain.
7. EarthWay 2050P 80lb Broadcast Spreader – Premium Pick for Durability
EarthWay 2050P 80lb Broadcast Spreader, Lawn Aerator, Fertilizer Spreader, 80lb Capacity, Pre-Assembled, with Rustproof Poly Hopper and Adjustable Drop Rate for Lawn Care & Seed Spreading
80 lb capacity, pneumatic tires
Walk-behind commercial-grade spreader
Pros
- 80 lb capacity
- Pneumatic tires
- Pre-assembled
- Rustproof poly hopper
Cons
- Handle not height adjustable
- Plastic wheel hubs
- No brake control
The EarthWay 2050P is the most heavy-duty walk-behind spreader in this roundup. It arrived pre-assembled, which is rare for this category, and the build quality stood out immediately. The 80 lb capacity and 10-inch pneumatic tires make it a pleasure to push across uneven ground.
During testing on a 1/2-acre lawn with multiple slopes, the EarthWay handled hills better than any other walk-behind broadcast spreader. The pneumatic tires gripped the ground without slipping, and the enclosed gearbox kept rocks and debris out of the gear mechanism.
The side spread control lets you shut off one side for edging along driveways and sidewalks, which is a feature I appreciate. The rustproof poly hopper resists corrosion, important for fertilizer that can be hygroscopic.
The 3.9-star rating across 618 reviews is the lowest in this roundup, but it is worth noting that EarthWay buyers tend to be commercial users or perfectionists. The complaints focus on the non-adjustable handle, plastic wheel hubs, and difficulty determining correct settings. For most homeowners, this is overengineering. For users who want commercial-grade durability, it is a strong choice.
Best Use Case
The EarthWay 2050P is built for users who want commercial-grade reliability in a walk-behind format. It is ideal for properties around 1/2 acre with hills, uneven terrain, or frequent use. If you maintain multiple properties or want a spreader that lasts a decade, this is the model.
Yard Size Suitability
Best for lawns between 1/4 acre and 1 acre. For larger properties, switch to a tow-behind. For smaller lawns, the 80 lb capacity is more than you need and the unit is heavier than necessary.
8. Amazon Basics Fertilizer Spreader – Best Budget Walk-Behind Spreader
Amazon Basics Fertilizer Spreader for Lawn, Evenly Spreading, Multi-Gear System, Covers 5000 Square Feet per Load, 33 Pounds, 0.53 Cubic Feet, All Season, 1-Pack
5,000 sq ft coverage, 33 lb capacity
Walk-behind with multi-gear system
Pros
- Budget-friendly price
- Easy assembly
- Smooth rolling
- Adjustable flow dial
Cons
- Lighter build quality
- Spread handle inconsistency
The Amazon Basics Fertilizer Spreader surprised me. At a fraction of the price of name-brand walk-behind models, it delivered surprisingly even coverage on a 5,000 sq ft test lawn. Assembly took under 5 minutes, and the multi-gear system gave me enough control for both fertilizer and grass seed.
The 33 lb capacity is the smallest in the walk-behind category, but it is enough for lawns up to 5,000 sq ft. Empty weight is 8.86 lbs, which makes it easy to push and maneuver. The release cable was pre-installed, which saved setup time.
Where the Amazon Basics cuts corners is build quality. The plastic feels lighter than the Scotts or EarthWay models, and the spread handle does not always open smoothly. Across 205 reviews, the rating is 3.9 stars, with common complaints about lightweight materials and occasional mechanical issues.
For homeowners on a tight budget who need a reliable walk-behind spreader for a small lawn, this is a solid value. I would not recommend it for heavy weekly use or large properties, but for occasional fertilizing on a small yard, it gets the job done.
Best Use Case
The Amazon Basics Fertilizer Spreader is ideal for homeowners with small lawns under 5,000 sq ft who want a walk-behind spreader without paying premium prices. It is also a good choice for users who only fertilize a few times per year and do not need commercial durability.
Yard Size Suitability
Best for lawns between 2,000 and 5,000 sq ft. For larger lawns, the 33 lb capacity means frequent refilling. For smaller lawns, a handheld spreader is cheaper and easier to store.
How to Choose the Best Fertilizer Spreader for Your Lawn
Choosing the best fertilizer spreaders for your specific yard requires matching three factors: lawn size, terrain, and product type. Walk-behind broadcast spreaders like the Scotts EdgeGuard DLX work for most medium residential lawns. Tow-behind models like the Agri-Fab handle large properties. Handheld spreaders like the Scotts Whirl and SOLO 421 cover small yards and spot treatments.
Match Spreader Type to Yard Size
For lawns under 5,000 sq ft, a handheld or compact walk-behind spreader is sufficient. The Scotts Whirl, CHAPIN 8740A, and Amazon Basics models all fit this category. They cost less, store easier, and handle the coverage area without refilling.
For lawns between 5,000 and 15,000 sq ft, a walk-behind broadcast spreader is the right choice. The Scotts EdgeGuard DLX and EarthWay 2050P are the top picks in this range. They offer enough hopper capacity to cover your lawn in one or two loads.
For properties over 1/2 acre, a tow-behind spreader saves significant time. The Agri-Fab 130 lb and VEVOR models connect to your riding mower and cover large areas efficiently. Pair them with a riding mower for the best experience.
Broadcast vs Drop Spreaders
Broadcast spreaders throw material in a wide arc using a rotating disc, covering more ground faster. They work well for open lawns without strict boundaries. Drop spreaders drop material directly below the hopper, giving precise control but slower coverage. Drop spreaders are better for lawns near flower beds or water features where overspray is a concern.
For most homeowners, a broadcast spreader is the right choice. The wider spread pattern covers more area per pass, and modern EdgeGuard technology prevents product from landing on unwanted surfaces.
Key Features to Look For
EdgeGuard technology keeps fertilizer off driveways and landscaping. Pneumatic tires handle uneven terrain better than plastic wheels. Pre-calibrated settings save time and reduce guesswork. A rustproof poly hopper extends the life of your spreader. Variable rate control lets you adjust the application rate for different products.
For winter use, a spreader that handles salt and ice melt is a major plus. The Scotts Whirl, EdgeGuard DLX, CHAPIN 8740A, and SOLO 421 all work for both fertilizer and ice melt. This means you get year-round value from a single tool.
How to Calibrate a Fertilizer Spreader
Calibration ensures you apply the correct amount of fertilizer for your lawn. Most modern spreaders like the Scotts EdgeGuard DLX come pre-calibrated for Scotts products. For other brands, follow this process:
First, check the fertilizer bag for the recommended application rate in pounds per 1,000 sq ft. Second, set your spreader to the middle of the recommended setting range. Third, measure 1,000 sq ft of your lawn and apply product at your normal walking pace. Fourth, weigh the remaining product and calculate how much you applied. Adjust the setting up or down until you hit the target rate.
For accurate calibration, weigh your product before and after. A kitchen scale works for small handheld spreaders. A postal scale works for walk-behind hoppers.
Spreader Maintenance Tips
After each use, rinse the hopper with water to remove fertilizer residue. Fertilizer salts corrode metal parts over time. Dry the spreader thoroughly before storing it to prevent rust.
Lubricate the moving parts, including the axle and gear mechanism, with silicone spray every few uses. Check the tires for proper inflation if your model has pneumatic tires. Store the spreader in a dry location like a garage or shed.
Before each season, inspect the hopper for cracks, the drive wheel for wear, and the rate control mechanism for smooth operation. Replace worn parts before the season starts to avoid mid-application breakdowns.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overlapping passes leads to double-application, which can burn your lawn. Mark your edges with flags or use a spreader with EdgeGuard to prevent this. Skipping sections leaves bare patches that look worse than the surrounding lawn. Walk at a consistent pace to maintain even coverage.
Applying fertilizer to wet grass causes clumping and uneven distribution. Wait for the lawn to dry before spreading. Applying before rain washes the fertilizer away. Check the forecast and apply 24 hours before expected rain for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best lawn fertiliser spreader?
The Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX is the best overall fertilizer spreader for most homeowners. It covers up to 15,000 sq ft, comes pre-calibrated with no assembly required, and includes EdgeGuard technology that prevents waste on driveways and landscaping. With 6,521 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, it is the most popular broadcast spreader in this category.
Which is better, a drop spreader or broadcast spreader?
A broadcast spreader is better for most homeowners because it covers more area faster with a wide spread pattern. A drop spreader offers more precise application but is slower and better suited for lawns near flower beds or sensitive areas where overspray is a concern. For typical residential lawns, broadcast spreaders with EdgeGuard technology offer the best balance of speed and precision.
What is the best fertilizer spreader for a small lawn?
For small lawns under 1,500 sq ft, the Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader is the best choice. It is lightweight, comfortable to use with adjustable arm support, and handles seed, fertilizer, salt, and ice melt. For lawns between 2,000 and 5,000 sq ft, the Amazon Basics Fertilizer Spreader offers walk-behind convenience at a budget price.
What is the best fertilizer spreader for a large yard?
For large properties over 1/2 acre, the Agri-Fab Pull Behind Broadcast Spreader is the best choice. Its 130 lb hopper covers up to 25,000 sq ft without refilling, and the 12 ft spread width cuts application time in half. It connects to most riding mowers via a universal hitch and includes pneumatic tires for uneven terrain.
How do I calibrate a fertilizer spreader?
To calibrate a fertilizer spreader, first check the fertilizer bag for the recommended application rate. Set your spreader to the middle of the recommended setting range. Measure 1,000 sq ft of your lawn and apply product at your normal walking pace. Weigh the remaining product and calculate how much you applied. Adjust the setting up or down until you hit the target rate. Most Scotts spreaders come pre-calibrated for Scotts products.
Is the Scotts Elite Spreader worth the money?
The Scotts Elite Spreader is worth the money for homeowners who want premium build quality and consistent coverage. It features dual-rotor technology for even spreading and a hopper capacity that handles large lawns. However, for most homeowners, the Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX offers similar real-world performance at a lower price point. Choose the Elite if you have a large yard and want the best spread pattern, but the EdgeGuard DLX is the better value for typical suburban lawns.
Final Verdict
The best fertilizer spreaders of 2026 cover every yard size and budget. For most homeowners, the Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX is the best overall pick. It balances coverage, ease of use, and price better than any competitor. For small lawns, the Scotts Whirl is unbeatable. For large properties, the Agri-Fab 130 lb tow-behind saves hours of work.
Before you buy, match the spreader to your yard size. A handheld spreader works for lawns under 5,000 sq ft. A walk-behind broadcast model is right for 5,000 to 15,000 sq ft. A tow-behind spreader is the best choice for properties over 1/2 acre. Pair your spreader with the right fertilizer, follow the calibration steps above, and your lawn will thank you.
Ready to upgrade your lawn care? Pick the spreader that fits your yard, and you will see richer, greener grass within one growing season.