You cannot have a beautiful lawn without investing some time into taking care of it – and the spreader is crucial to that goal.
Spreaders are impressively versatile and can handle multiple gardening needs, ranging from seeding to applying fertilizers. There are two types of these spreaders; the broadcast and drop spreaders, and your choice between the two will depend on your intended usage.
What are the differences between the Broadcast spreader vs. Drop spreader?
| Broadcast spreader (Earthway Even Spread 2150 spreader) | Drop spreader (Scotts 76565 Turf Builder classic drop spreader) | |
|---|---|---|
| Tire diameter (in inches) | 13 inches | 11 inches |
| Capacity | 50 lbs. | 25 lbs. |
| Dimensions (in inches) | 23.6 x 15.8 x 14.5 inches | 47 x 32 x 18 inches |
| Check price here | Check price here |
Broadcast spreader vs. Drop spreader – How do they compare?
Coverage area
Broadcast spreaders are ideal if you want to seed entire lawns due to their coverage. It is quite easy to set it to spread out its contents at a regulated rate, and it will release enough on the ground to ensure a thick grass cover when it begins germinating. On the other hand, drop spreaders are great for spot seeding, when you already have grass growing on the lawn but need to apply granular content to specific areas.
The broadcast spreader wins here as it offers more coverage and versatility.
Application of content
Broadcast spreaders offer greater consistency when you want to apply content such as herbicides and fertilizers, as it does not leave stripped lines on your land. Drop spreaders are good as well, although they work better if you want a more precise application.
Due to consistency, the broadcast spreader wins in this category.
Broadcast spreader vs. Drop spreader – A comparison review
Broadcast spreader Overview
Also known as rotary spreaders, these broadcast granules in all directions and have a guard on their rear to prevent them from shooting at your legs. This design makes them the best choice for large lawns, as they will cover as much ground as possible while spreading their contents at your walking pace.
Pros
- It covers a wide area in a short time
- You can adjust the distance and speed of the spreader
Cons
- It is challenging to control the product flow patterns, resulting in wastage at times
Drop spreader Overview
- Large capacity hopper holds up to 10,000 sq. ft. of Scotts lawn product, including grass seed and fertilizer
- Heavy-duty frame for optimum stability
- 22-inch spread pattern delivers maximum coverage and accuracy
Drop spreaders are what you need if you want an accurate application of your fertilizer or granular content, as it only releases its contents where you direct it. It is easy to operate and works best on a small lawn.
Pros
- It allows you to have more control over where the granular products go
- Ideal if you want more accurate application in a smaller lawn
Cons
- It is time-consuming to use as it spreads granular products in smaller increments
Verdict: So, which one is better – the Broadcast spreader or the Drop spreader?
It is a difficult choice, but the Broadcast spreader wins due to its advantage of greater consistency in spreading its contents, as well as the wider coverage that spreads out your granular content without taking up much time or effort from you.
FAQs
Can I use a broadcast spreader to spread soil?
No, as the soil tends to be too clumpy and coarse to go through the spreader as effectively.