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If you are looking for the best rotary fertilizer spreader, then you should read this article to the end.
A rotary spreader is a spreader that uses a rotating base plate to disperse seeds or granules that slowly pour from a hopper.
They are called broadcast spreaders because they throw the product several feet to the front and sides of the spreader itself.
However, there are two basic types of spreaders that exist for dry application.
They are Rotary Spreaders, also know as Broadcast spreaders and Drop Spreaders. Also, there are also spreaders designed for liquid chemicals.
Rotary spreaders has the advantage of covering an area three times their width, or broader, on every pass.
Choosing the right one can be tricky because there are lots of models in the market.
They are available in several sizes. So you can chose one that works for a tiny garden, large estate lawn, and anything in the middle.
Consider the following list of some of the highest-rated rotary fertilizer spreader to find one that’s right for you.
The models below have great a feature/quality to cost ratio.
My Top 3 Best Rotary Fertilizer Spreader
Last update on 2024-08-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What settings do you put fertilizer spreader on?
There’s a need to calibrate your spreader settings for each different material you use it for.
Select the setting that most closely matches the necessary application rate from your calibration list and notes.
Fertilizer application recommendations depend on the type of fertilizer and whether you are fertilizing lawn or garden, with the recommendations listed on the bag.
For example, 16-4-8 fertilizer will require 6.25 pounds to cover 1,000 square feet.
Therefore choose the calibrated setting on the spreader that is closest to the 6.25-pound application rate.
What you have to do is to set your spreader so that it’s ¾ open when engaged. If for instance, the spreader is calibrated 1 to 20, set it at 15.
Then place eight pounds of Milorganite into the spreader’s hopper.
Make sure you measure the area (length x width) of the lawn you are fertilizing.
What to Consider before buying a rotary fertilizer spreader.
The first thing you will want to figure out when choosing a spreader is the size and shape off your lawn.
It is important to choose one that fits best with your specific yard.
This is because different spreaders have varying spread widths and ranges.
Another factor to consider is the physical size of your potential spreader. This is because some of the larger models can take up a significant amount of space.
These rotary spreader machines apply products, so your yard is luxuriant. This makes you waste less product and spend less time and effort.
Related: Here is an article I wrote on the best 3 point fertilizer spreader
1. Scotts Turf Builder Mini Broadcast Spreader
- Use the Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader to apply Scotts lawn care products
- Comes pre-calibrated and fully assembled with a fold-down handle for easy storage
- Scotts exclusive EdgeGuard Technology keeps lawn product off landscaping, driveways, and sidewalks
- Features redesigned hopper and agitator for smoother product funneling and consistent coverage
- Holds up to 5,000 sq. ft. of Scotts lawn product, including grass seed, fertilizer, salt and ice melt - ideal for...
Last update on 2024-08-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This walk-behind model from Scotts is an affordable machine that can still deliver a decent amount of material. This is because it has 5000 sq. foot capacity hopper.
One favorite feature of this model is its EdgeGuard. This allows you to run the machine along the edge of your yard without sending seed or fertilizer onto the road or landscaping.
Not only is this spreader convenient for cleanup, it reduce the amount of product wasted. It is a money-saver in the long run.
Pros:
• Comes fully assembled
• Can be used for salting
• Low cost
• Easy to set
• Perfect size to use and store
• Suitable for many different fertilizers
• Covers more ground than most drop spreaders
Cons:
• Too small for larger lawns
• Doesn’t spread evenly
• Unstable on non-flat surface
• Wheel gets covered by fertilizer thus needing regular cleaning
• The wheels require a lot of pushing on all but the smoothest yards.
• The final bits of the product tends to stick to the bottom of the spreader.
The Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader is one of the most popular spreaders you can find in the market.
2. Lesco High Wheel Fertilizer Spreader 101186
- Hopper Capacity: 80 lbs.
- With manual deflector kit
- Enclosed gearbox with 5:1 gear ratio
- Some assembly required ; Includes instructions
- Can be used year round
Last update on 2024-09-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Lesco 101186 Commercial Broadcast Spreader can be used to spread fertilizer in the summer and salt and ice melt in the winter.
This High Wheel Lesco Fertilizer and Salt Spreader is the choice of professional landscapers and the industry standard spreader.
The rotary spreader is designed to hold 80 lb of fertilizer. Also designed for salt and ice melt for winter deicing applications. A true all season spreader.
This broadcast spreader is heralded as the best fertilizer spreader on the market. It is the first choice in the landscaping and lawn care community.
It’s near impossible to find an owner that has negative comments about this spreader. This product is expensive but worth your penny.
Pros:
• Pro level build quality – will last for years
• Extra large tires make it very easy to push
• Stainless steel frame and axle will not rust
Cons:
• Some assembly required
3. Agri-Fab 45-0463, 130-Pound Tow Behind Spreader
- 130 pound hopper capacity saves time refilling on larger acreage lawns"
- Durable rod linked on-off control with precise settings". Maneuverable
- Enclosed gear box with tapered gears for even spreading and long life"
- Large diameter tires with wide wheelbase for stability on rougher terrain"
- Optional hopper cover, material deflector and hopper grate available"
Last update on 2024-08-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you have a 4-wheeler or a tractor that you can use, then this Agri-Fab 45-0463 Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader is the recommended model for you.
This broadcast spreader is constructed of high-grade materials. Also, it has smart settings that only put out the amount of fertilizer you want it to.
The unit comes unassembled but you have no problem putting it together. This spreader is best used for large fields (1-acre or more).
A tow-behind spreader works well when you spread seed and other materials over an acre or more.
This tow-behind model features a universal hitch that makes it simple to connect to nearly lawn tractor, riding lawn mower, or other tractor or vehicle.
You will notice this spreader is quite maneuverable. Also, you can operate from the driver’s seat due to a steel-constructed direct flow control arm.
Pros:
• Optional hopper cover can be purchased
• Extra-large pneumatic wheels
• Strong and steady body
• Easy to assemble
• Lower price compared to other spreaders in the same class
• Carries a lot of fertilizer
Cons:
• Not practical for smaller yards
• Weak Springs
• Expensive
• Lot of residue remains
4. Earthway 2150 Commercial Walk-Behind Spreader
The Earthway 50-Pound Walk-Behind Broadcast Spreader is a commercial grade, multi-use spreader that measures 15.75 x 14.5 x 23.63 inches.
The heavy-duty plastic hopper handles yards from 10,000 square feet up to one acre.
This broadcast spreader features a two-position height adjustment handle and T-speed lever.
Both provides excellent operator comfort and control for users of different heights.
The spread 3-hole drop shutoff system ensures an even spread pattern. It also has a feathered spread edge that ensures a smooth application.
One amazing description of this spreader is that the frame is engineered with a 175-pound load-bearing limit.
This makes it durable under rugged operating conditions such as uneven terrain.
The Earthway 50-Pound Commercial Walk-Behind Broadcast Spreader is a strong candidate for spreaders that spread fertilizer evenly.
You can expect to spend a few hours on the assembly and calibration of this broadcast spreader.
Pros:
• Easy to use and operate
• Easy control especially at corners
• Sturdy body ensuring a long lifespan
• Large, pneumatic tires make it easy to push up and down hills
• Heavy duty steel frame and all metal controls
Cons:
• Long time to assemble
• Unclear assemble instruction
• Confusing assembly instructions
• Cushy handle grips can rip if proper isn’t taken.
5. Brinly P20-500BHDF Push Spreader with Side Deflector Kit
- 50-lb Capacities: Heavy-Duty Rust-Proof Hopper Holds 50 lbs. of Yard Fertilizer, Grass Seed, or Snow and Ice-Melt...
- Deflector Included: Includes Deflector Kit to Control Material Flow and Prevent Distribution to Unwanted Areas,...
- Easy Maneuvering: Large 12" x 3" Pneumatic Turf-Tread Tires for Durability and an Easy Push Through the Lawn
- Long-Lasting Hardware: Fully Enclosed Rust-Resistant Gearbox and Stainless Steel Hardware, Shaft, and Agitator...
- Fast Calibration: Easy-to-Reach Controls and Simple Calibration Settings Ensure Accuracy
Last update on 2024-08-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Push spreaders are great choice for small lawns, narrow spaces, and walkways and medium-sized yards.
This product from Brinly is one of the best.
The heavy-duty hopper, including crop, fertilizer, or ice-melting agents, contains about 50 pounds of materials.
It is compact for easy storage and it comes fully assembled and calibrated.
The material’s movement is regulated by a deflector and prevents it from getting into driveways, sidewalks, and other undesirable areas. You can just flip it up and out of the way when it’s not in use.
Pros:
• Great value and dependable
• Built for multiple usages
• Perfect for small spaces
• Great control of the rate of spread
Cons:
• Very lightweight overall for all-season use
• May not spread small grass seeds well
