How to Use a Drop Spreader

A drop spreader sprinkles the contents straight down onto the lawn in an area the width of the hopper. Compared to a broadcast spreader, it’s better for smaller sized yards or if you have lots of contours and need to spread product in a precise path. Learn how to use one to apply lawn care products like granular fertilizers, grass seed, soil amendments and pesticides.

TIP: If your model of spreader isn’t included on the bag, you may find the correct setting using a manufacturer’s online Spreader Setting Calculator.

Step 1 Fill the hopper

Follow the directions on the bag to fill the hopper with the right amount of lawn product. Fill it on the sidewalk or driveway. That way, if you spill, it won’t leave a burn mark on the lawn.

Step 2 Find your settings

Find the recommended setting for the spreader on the back of the bag of product.

Step 3 Set the dial

The dial, controls how much product your spreader distributes. Set the dial on the spreader to match that number.

Step 4 Create a border

Make a header strip, or border around the outside edge of the lawn. This helps prevent sprinkling the product in garden beds and walkways.

Step 5 Follow the right pattern

You want to cover the lawn evenly without spreading too much product on overlapping areas. So, hold the handle lever so the product flows as you walk. As you hit those borders, shut it OFF while turning so you won’t spread an extra layer of product there. Turn it back ON as you walk back and line up with the wheel tracks from the first pass, or the arrow on the hopper. Follow this pattern for the rest of the lawn.