How to Use a Broadcast Spreader to Fertilize a Yard

If you have ever observed a grass-patch dry up due to the application of excess fertilizer, you understand the need for even distribution. If you apply insufficient fertilizer, the ground will not get enough nutrients. However, extra fertilizer application leads to the development of tell-tale dead areas.

To ensure that you apply your granular fertilizer at the right rate, you should use a broadcast spreader. Broadcast spreaders serve best for large open fields like lawns, although you can apply them anywhere.

So, to use broadcast spreader;

1. Press in the builder’s setting on the spread rate gauge, and measure and test the product’s pattern of dispersion through your spreader. Start by cleaning debris and dirt off the driveway, then carry out the dispersal pattern test. 
2. For a broadcasting spreader, the right side of the pattern dispersal is 1 or 2 feet wider than the left. Use the test information to know the pattern you can use to push your spreader across the garden for total coverage with 6 inches to 1 foot of overlap. Note “wide side,” “narrow side” information on a piece of masking tape, and so that you do not forget your broadcasting model for each side., stick it at the back of your hopper.
3. Essential: do not wash, blow, or sweep the test material in the street. Sweep and discard it back into the hopper.
4. If your product has no recommended settings for the spreader, turn to the owner’s manual for available alternatives for each product. If not, you will have to apply trial and error. Set your spreader to light coverage. Use the products on the square footage as advised. Then see how much of the product is left in the hopper. Modify the remaining material on the same region; this time, apply it perpendicular to your first pattern.
5. You first spread across the hills when beginning the yard pattern. That way, you will have the right lawn products to minimize “skipping” the uneven ground.
6. Maintain the speed you would use to walk a midsized, mid-aged dog (about three mph). Your walking rate dictates how much and how wide your broadcaster throws. Walking faster makes you establish a thin coverage; walking slower increases product density reduces its throw width.
7. Whenever you are set to turn or stop, shut the flow lever to halt dispersion of the product and carry-on with one more stride. That minimizes the waste and prevent damage to your yard as a result of excess product application. Do not pull the spreader backward with the flow lever open to avoid releasing excessive quantities of the product.
8. As you run the spreader, keep the impeller approximately level. When you adjust the handlebar upwards or downwards, the product is thrown too high or low hence uneven coverage.
9. Avoid using excess weed killer and fertilizer. Observe the coverage rate as the manufacturer recommends, for each product. Over application and overuse can results in yard runoffs, which contaminates streams and lakes. Always have a nuisance desk mask and gloves to protect yourself whenever you handle chemical lawn products. 

After Spreading Fertilizer

Once you complete the exercise, water your yard in depth. That will help the nutrients get into the soil for it to be absorbed by the grassroots. Additionally, watering washes the fertilizer off the grass leaves hence keeping them healthy.

How Do You Maintain Your Fertilizer Spreader?

One of the primary responsibilities of having a fertilizer spreader is maintaining it. Failing to observe that may force you to buy parts you did not need in the first place.  

·        Proper Storage

You don’t want to leave your spreader with fertilizer, so always ensure that it is empty before you store it. For large models, ensure that you lower the rollers onto a hard and flat surface. Keeping your seeder inside will make the long-lasting.

·        Lubricate Your Spreader

To maintain that smooth working of your fertilizer spreader, oil application to all moving parts like sprockets, chains, and grease fittings, is necessary. If you ignore this, the chances of your spreader breaking or getting stuck are higher.

·        Keep it Clean and Neat

Whenever you are done using your spreader, empty it and brush out every bit of fertilizer. Thoroughly rinse the fertilizer spreader using water and let it dry. If you possess a larger spreader, you should clean off all dirt and grease. Also, always empty its content if it will take a while before you use your spreader.

·        Inspect Your Chains

The larger fertilizer spreader designs come with chains that will require your attention to ensure that they stay in good condition. You may need to tighten, replace or oil them.

·        If You Have to, Disassemble Your Spreader

You can always dismantle your seed spreader if the need arises. However, ensure that you know the positions taken by each piece. It is essential that you reassemble your spreader’s parts correctly, failure to which it may malfunction by turning in the wrong direction. That is especially relevant with small spreaders.

·        Do Touch-ups from Time to Time

Larger spreaders are constructed using metals, while the smaller ones are mostly made of plastic. Touch-ups are necessary whenever you see your paint begin to wear off. That will prevent rusting, which can degrade your fertilizer spreader. 

·        Check for Exhausted Parts

Always inspect your fertilizer seeder for worn out parts because wear and tear still hinder the smooth operation. Therefore, replace the worn-out parts as required to avoid a breakdown problem. 

Regardless of the size of the spreader you own, most of the guidelines are the same. Also, go through the maintenance procedures found in the manufacturer’s manual. If you threw it away or lost it, contact the manufacture, ask google or consult someone in your locality.

Wrapping up

If you want an attractive lush green yard, you know the importance of supplementing your grass with fertilizer. Though you can still apply fertilizer using your hands, it is better and quicker to use spreaders. Lastly, know how to use it and maintain your spreaders; for smooth operation whenever you need it. 

If you’ve not purchased a broadcast spreader yet, I have reviewed the best broadcast spreader for the money.