Pull Behind Lawn Fertilizer Spreaders: The Ultimate Guide

Spreading fertilizer evenly over your lawn is essential for a healthy, lush lawn. A pull behind lawn fertilizer spreader can make the job quick, easy, and accurate. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you choose and use a pull behind lawn fertilizer spreader.

Types of Pull Behind Lawn Fertilizer Spreaders

There are two main types of pull behind lawn fertilizer spreaders: broadcast spreaders and drop spreaders.

• Broadcast spreaders distribute fertilizer in a wide pattern, so they're best for large areas. They can be towed behind a lawn tractor or ATV.
• Drop spreaders release fertilizer in a narrow strip, so they're better for small areas or areas with obstacles. They can be towed behind a walk-behind lawn mower or pushed by hand.

Choosing the Right Pull Behind Lawn Fertilizer Spreader

When choosing a pull behind lawn fertilizer spreader, consider the following factors:

• Size of your lawn: For lawns up to 1/2 acre, a small broadcast spreader or drop spreader will suffice. For larger lawns, a larger broadcast spreader will be necessary.
• Type of fertilizer: Broadcast spreaders can be used with both granular and liquid fertilizers, while drop spreaders are designed for granular fertilizers only.
• Features: Some spreaders come with features such as adjustable spread width, variable speed control, and built-in scales. These features can make spreading fertilizer more precise and efficient.

How to Use a Pull Behind Lawn Fertilizer Spreader

Using a pull behind lawn fertilizer spreader is a relatively simple process, but there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure accuracy and safety.

1. Calibrate your spreader: Before applying fertilizer, it's important to calibrate your spreader to ensure it's applying the correct amount of fertilizer. To calibrate your spreader, follow the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Set the spread width: The spread width of your spreader should be adjusted according to the size of your lawn and the type of fertilizer you're using. For broadcast spreaders, the spread width should be set to the width of your lawn. For drop spreaders, the spread width should be set to the width of the area you want to fertilize.
3. Fill the hopper: Fill the hopper with fertilizer, but do not overfill it. Overfilling the hopper can clog the spreader and result in uneven application.
4. Start spreading: Start spreading fertilizer in an even, back-and-forth motion. Walk or drive slowly to ensure even coverage.
5. Overlap rows: As you spread fertilizer, overlap each row by about 1/3 to ensure complete coverage.
6. Rinse the spreader: After you're finished spreading fertilizer, rinse the spreader with water to remove any residual fertilizer. This will help prevent corrosion and ensure the spreader is ready for next time.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Pull Behind Lawn Fertilizer Spreaders

Benefits:

• Evenly distributes fertilizer, promoting healthy lawn growth
• Saves time and effort compared to manual spreading
• Adjustable spread width and variable speed control allow for precise application
• Can be used with granular or liquid fertilizers (broadcast spreaders only)

Drawbacks:

• Requires a tow vehicle (lawn tractor, ATV, or walk-behind lawn mower)
• Can be expensive to purchase and maintain
• Requires calibration before each use to ensure accuracy

Safety Precautions for Using Pull Behind Lawn Fertilizer Spreaders

• Wear gloves and protective eyewear when operating a fertilizer spreader.
• Avoid overfilling the hopper.
• Keep children and pets away from the spreader while it is operating.
• Rinse the spreader thoroughly with water after each use.
• Store the spreader in a dry, well-ventilated area.

Troubleshooting Common Problems with Pull Behind Lawn Fertilizer Spreaders

• Clogged spreader: If the spreader is clogged, remove the hopper and clear any obstructions. Then, rinse the spreader with water to remove any residual fertilizer.
• Uneven application: If the spreader is applying fertilizer unevenly, calibrate the spreader according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Corrosion: To prevent corrosion, rinse the spreader thoroughly with water after each use and store it in a dry, well-ventilated area.

Cost-Saving Tips for Using Pull Behind Lawn Fertilizer Spreaders

• Buy fertilizer in bulk to save money.
• Calibrate your spreader regularly to ensure you're applying the correct amount of fertilizer.
• Avoid overwatering your lawn after applying fertilizer, as this can leach the fertilizer away.
• Mow your lawn regularly to promote healthy growth and reduce the need for fertilizer.

Innovation: The Future of Pull Behind Lawn Fertilizer Spreaders

The future of pull behind lawn fertilizer spreaders lies in innovation. New technologies are being developed to make spreaders more accurate, efficient, and user-friendly. For example, some spreaders are now equipped with GPS technology to ensure precise application. Others are equipped with sensors that can automatically adjust the spread width and application rate based on the type of fertilizer and the size of the lawn.

Conclusion

Pull behind lawn fertilizer spreaders are a valuable tool for homeowners who want to achieve a healthy, lush lawn. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you can choose and use a pull behind lawn fertilizer spreader that meets your needs. With proper use and maintenance, your spreader will provide years of reliable service.

Tables

Table 1: Types of Pull Behind Lawn Fertilizer Spreaders

Table 2: Benefits and Drawbacks of Pull Behind Lawn Fertilizer Spreaders

Table 3: Troubleshooting Common Problems with Pull Behind Lawn Fertilizer Spreaders

Table 4: Cost-Saving Tips for Using Pull Behind Lawn Fertilizer Spreaders