Working in your garden is one of the most satisfying feelings ever. You get to grow your own plants and see them become something that you can feel proud of. But doing the job right requires both patience and the right tool. And speaking of the right tools, a good fertilizer spreader is a must have for any garden. Choosing the right one on your own can be a very daunting task. Given a large number of options available, choosing one can be close to impossible for most people.
There are so many brand names and price ranges that anyone would get confused. This article will address this exact problem as we have conducted in depth research to bring you all the information that you need. No need for you to go through page after page of product listings. Simply give this detailed guide a read and you will not only find the best drop spreader for yourself but learn about them in depth as well.
Comparison of 10 Best Drop Spreaders in 2020
Image | Model | Features | Latest Price |
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Scotts Turf Builder Classic Drop Spreader |
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Gandy Towable Drop Spreader |
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Agri-Fab Max Tow Behind Drop Spreader |
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Precision Products Deluxe Step-Up Drop Spreader |
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Agri-Fab 45-0545 Drop Spreader |
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CRAFTSMAN Spike Aerator Drop Spreader |
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Sealey Drop Spreader |
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Lesco Drop Spreader |
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Spyker Commercial Drop Spreader |
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Gandy Drop Spreader |
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Top 10 Best Drop Spreader Reviews in 2020
Let us take a look at the list of drop spreaders that we have compiled and reviewed for you here.
1. Scotts Turf Builder Classic Drop Spreader
The Scotts Turf Builder Classic Drop Spreader is a great tool for applying fertilizer or grass seeds to your turf in any season. It offers a good spread and has a ton of capacity. The larger models can cover up to 10,000 sq. feet, minimizing the need for refills. The spread it creates is also quite uniform and that is especially important with granular products.
The control panel given on the spreader allows you to precisely determine the quantity you need to spread. A special feature of this drop spreader is that it comes with a side lock that prevents fertilizer from spreading to the sides. This is especially useful when you are working on lawn edges and don’t want to get your driveway or sidewalk dirty.
The device comes calibrated from the supplier which also removes a big hassle at the user’s end. Price wise this spreader is quite good and given the long lifespan it can provide it is a particularly good deal.
- Good value for money
- Setup is quite easy
- Easy to store and use
- Supports many types of fertilizers and seeds
- Has a bigger capacity than most other drop spreaders
- Uneven spread at times
- Fertilizer can get stuck in wheels
- Difficult to work on uneven surfaces
2. Gandy Towable Drop Spreader
As far as spreads go, this is one of the best options on the market. This drop spreader has its own V-N-SPRED 3-hole drop shut-off system which allows for maximum accuracy in every spread. The drop speed is adjustable and this can be useful to ensure a good spread on both the edges and the main area.
The hopper on top is also quite big and the frame can hold around 120 lb of the load. The gearbox mechanism of this spreader is completely enclosed which helps eliminate the possibility of blockage in the chute. The body of the drop spreader is quite sturdy and will last you a long time. The movement is quite easy on it as well.
The adjustable handlebar allows for easy use for people of different heights and makes moving it around quite easy. The tires are heavy duty and pneumatic, allowing easy operation on uneven surfaces. They also don’t have the problem of going flat due to their design.
- Fairly easy to operate
- Adjustable bar size
- Protected gear system
- Durable design provides long life
- Assembly can take some time
- Instructions for assembly not very good
3. Agri-Fab Max Tow Behind Drop Spreader
This particular best drop spreader product that you can use for a lot of different environments. The large bucket and 175lb capacity make it efficient and effective for both seeds and fertilizers. The 42-inch spread of the bucket allows you to cover a larger area in less time.
The product does not come pre assembled but is easy to put together and has an assembly video for assistance. It is rated for an area of 40,000 sq. ft. which means refilling is almost never required in medium-sized gardens. It is fairly easy to operate on uneven surfaces due to its pneumatic tires.
They also allow easy operation, especially when hooked with the tow. The universal tow hook allows for a range of applications as well. The galvanized steel build quality is also very good and ensures a good lifespan.
- Durable build quality
- Easy to assemble
- Wide dropper spread
- Provides 3-year warranty
- Quality can be bad at times
- Does not work well in wet sand
4. Precision Products Deluxe Step-Up Drop Spreader
If you are looking to expand your capacity and move to a bigger area, this spreader will do a great job. This drop spreader sports a huge 75 lb capacity. The coverage on this thing is quite huge, with applications ranging from grounds maintenance to farming and landscaping as well.
The mechanism inside is quite sturdy and provides a good spread across the whole area. The 12-Inch poly wheels are also kept covered to avoid getting clogged from seeds, fertilizer, or other materials. It is fairly easy to hook up and operate and also comes with a rain cover, allowing operation in all weathers.
The body is of high quality and is meant to last a long time. Given its durable build and capacity, it can be used for a range of different applications.
- Very good value for money
- Assembly straightforward and easy
- Easy to install and operate
- Sturdy build quality
- Sprayer not very accurate
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5. Agri-Fab 45-0545 Drop Spreader
This all-purpose spreader has a good range of applications and a larger than usual capacity. With 175 lb hopper capacity, it can cover quite large areas in one filling. The hopper sits on tops of a rugged frame that has a pretty decent load bearing capacity. The pneumatic tires are sturdy and work a long time without ever going flat.
While it can easily spread fertilizer and seeds, it is also well-equipped for dealing with snow. A dedicated auger allows for effective removal of snow while minimizing clumps. The hopper also has a baffling present under it for a reasonably controlled spray in every direction.
The hopper also has snow and rain cover on it which allows for operation in all weathers. The overall size of the drop spreader is not too big for its capacity and storage is also fairly easy.
- High capacity
- Works in all weather and supports ice melts/salt.
- It’s almost assembled.
- Easy to use
- Reasonably priced
- Spread rate is low
- Parts can corrode over time
6. CRAFTSMAN Spike Aerator Drop Spreader
The CRAFTSMAN Spike Aerator Drop Spreader is made for covering large areas efficiently and its specs make sure you can do that with ease. The huge 100lb hopper carries enough material for about 17,500 sq. ft. and all that weight is supported by big pneumatic tires.
The transport is smooth on all surfaces and the 32 in. the spread allows you to cover the area quite quickly. The hopper is made of rustproof material and has a sturdy build quality, allowing a long lifespan.
The best drop spreader also comes with a universal hitch design, allowing it to be towed by a range of different vehicles. The distributor is also well-designed, allowing for an even spread over large areas.
- Good value for money
- Good build quality
- Higher capacity minimizes refills
- Large tires make operation smooth
- A bit difficult to assemble
- The chassis could be a bit stronger to hold large weight better
7. Sealey Walk Behind Drop Spreader
Drop spreading is a task that always requires specialized tools and this barrel spreader does the job well. It is easy to use, has very little to assemble, and provides a large capacity. The mesh design spreads the compost evenly and is quite effective.
The body is quite sturdy, and the steel design provides long life. The powder coat paint also prevents it from getting rusty. The sliding door of the drop spreader comes in a slide open design. This allows for easy refilling of the drum and makes it look clean as well.
The clean and simple design also allows you to work quite fast. The only major and the most common problem it has is that the door can have compost stuck in its slider, causing a jam.
- Sturdy build quality
- Easy to operate
- The sliding door allows easy refilling
- Even and fast spread on every use
- Can break sometimes
- Sliding door can cause compost jams
8. Lesco Drop Spreader
The Lesco Drop Spreader is a particularly effective product with great value for money. If you want to cover a large area but do a precise job at the same time, this is a great option to choose from. The hopper spread is quite wide with a spread of up to 36 in.
It is also usable in all weather conditions and can spread seeds, fertilizer, and even salt for melting ice. The whole body comes painted with powder coat paint to prevent rusting.
It also has a rain cover so you can operate it whenever you want. The assembly is also not required for the most part and you can have it ready to be towed in no time.
- Great build quality
- Metallic gears operate smoothly and last long
- Covers large areas in a single fill
- Less operation time required due to the large spread area
- Design for the spreader could be better for more evenness
9. Spyker Commercial Drop Spreader
The Spyker Commercial Drop Spreader does what it does quite well. It comes with a decent 120lb capacity that covers most mid-sized gardens with ease. The design is quite simple and that makes assembly a fairly easy job to do. The large height and clean style allow for it to be used in all weathers.
In addition to fertilizer and seeds, it can also spread ice-melt agents effectively. The large 13” tires are a key feature when it comes to operating this spreader. They provide a steady flow and make working on uneven terrain a breeze. The biggest highlight of this product is the powder coated steel frame.
This is particularly useful for making sure that you do not get your material on surfaces where you don’t want it. This can help keep the sidewalks and driveways clean.
- Simple and easy to use
- Calibration is quite easy
- Deflector allows controlled spread in corners
- Large pneumatic wheels allow smooth movement over all terrains.
- Bucket style hopper isn’t very attractive
- Cheaper options available from the competition
10. Gandy Drop Spreader
If you want a spreader that does it all, has a good design, and long life, then this Gandy Drop Spreader is a good choice for you. Whether you want to spread seeds, fertilizer, or ice-melt agents, you can rely on this to do the job well.
The extra-large wheel size allows easy operating in any terrain and provides a decent height as well. The hopper is rustproof and is capable of carrying 120lb load which allows it to be used for both medium and large sized projects.
The spreader is covered on all sides to control the spread and give an even coat on the whole area. The mechanism is also sufficiently covered and that allows for an improved lifespan. One of the biggest points is the price to size ratio which is better than a lot of other best drop spreaders.
- Great value for the size
- Large tires
- Easy to operate
- The covered mechanism ensures longevity
- Non-pneumatic tires can go flat
- Maintenance on the gear mechanism can be a bit difficult
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Informative Section
Catering to your queries and doubts, we compiled this extensive buying guide that can make the choice much easier for you.
What is a Drop Spreader?
Before you move on to the listings, make sure that you know about the best drop spreaders and how they differ from other spreaders. To put it plainly, a drop spreader is the type of spreader that you push on wheels. It focuses on larger areas and is a great tool if you have a medium-sized row gardening layout.
You also have the handheld spreader, which, as the name tells, is for lifting in your hands and moving around the garden yourself. This is perfect for people who have a small garden or a backyard to work in. In a small space, you can use this very easily.
The third type is a broadcast spreader which is also known as a rotary spreader. This is more of a professional grade product that works best in large areas, typically at least 1 acre. It works the same way as a drop spreader but has a much bigger spray area of around 3-4 ft. in radius.
What to Look for in a Fertilizer Spreader?
There are several things that you should consider when looking for a fertilizer spreader. For most people, the biggest two things in mind are the price of the product and its lifespan. However, when talking about the best drop spreaders, you will find that most of them fall in the same price category. There are some that go beyond the normal price range too, but they can be quite worth the investment if you buy the right product.
Speaking of the lifespan, it is primarily dependent on the amount of usage your spreader sees. However, with a basic mechanism in most spreaders, you can expect a good lifespan as long as you don’t push it too hard. Size and terrain are also a consideration for every buyer. However, since the focus here is on drop spreaders, we will run with the assumption that it is for a mid-sized lawn.
Last but not least, the material that your spreader is made of is also worth considering. Spreaders come in both steel and plastic bodies. For steel options, there is a lot more precision as compared to plastic. However, the plastic ones naturally provide a longer life span. Where your preference lies is entirely up to you. The review we will provide later should help you out with making this decision as well.
How to Use Your Spreader Properly?
Now that you are familiar with the basics, let us take a look at how the spreader is meant to be used. Before anything else, always read the specific guidelines that the manufacturer provides with their product. While this may be an unpopular opinion, reading the paperwork can often help increase any product’s life significantly. Here are a few points to keep in mind when using your best drop spreader.
- Find out what specifications the manufacturer has provided for your specific drop spreader. Follow the instructions closely and calibrate the spreader accordingly.
- Always load your drop spreader on your driveway or a sidewalk. Avoid using the garden or you may spill fertilizer in that area. Also avoid doing it indoors because, well, that is pretty straight forward don’t you think.
- When using the spreader, keep your movement speed steady. Inconsistent speed can result in an uneven spread of fertilizer.
- If you stop during the spreading process or take a turn, it is best to close the openings. This will help you avoid overflow and retain an even spread.
- If your spreader is prone to rust, always clean it up after use and make sure it does not contain any residue.
- Apply machine oil every once in a while to all the metallic parts of the spreader mechanism. This will let them work smoothly and also increase their lifespan.
Conclusion
Garden care is no joke and doing it properly requires a lot of dedication. With the proper drop spreader, you can make sure that your garden looks beautiful all year round. Given the additional option of spreading salt and ice-melt agents, some of these products do seem like a great catch. When it comes to making the final decision, the cards are completely in your hands.
There is sufficient information provided here to make you realize exactly what your specific needs are. Keeping those in mind, you should go through the list thoroughly and make sure you consider each option. Compare whatever is on offer with your specific needs and see how each product fares. You are about to invest in your garden’s future and opting for the right tool can make all the difference.
The opinions shared here provide a well-balanced outlook on what each product is like and what you can expect. The only obvious thing that you can use to eliminate options is the size of your area. If you are going to work in a mid-sized area, the larger drop spreaders may not be for you.
However, if you are working in a large area, or you like the functions of a specific model then you can go for it. We hope that by now you have already made up your mind about the best drop spreader you want for your garden.
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