--- title: "The Best Fertilizer Spreaders to Feed Your Lawn Quickly and Evenly" description: "We tested 13 fertilizer spreaders, from Earthway to Scotts, to find the best walk-behind, tow-behind, and handheld options." date: "2026-04-14" modified: "2026-04-14" authors: - name: "Mark Wolfe" job_title: "Staff Writer" link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/mark-wolfe/" url: "https://www.bobvila.com/reviews/best-fertilizer-spreaders/" categories: - "Lawn, Garden & Pool" - "Reviews" tags: - "Commerce" - "MPR" --- # The Best Fertilizer Spreaders to Feed Your Lawn Quickly and Evenly ![Best Fertilizer Spreader]() *Photo: Debbie Wolfe for BobVila.com* Whether seeding a new lawn, feeding an existing garden, or treating a yard for an insect infestation, a fertilizer spreader is an invaluable tool. These machines apply [lawn care]() products quickly and evenly without requiring you to touch them, keeping you safe from contacting potentially dangerous chemicals and resulting in more consistent application with less product waste. In the winter, they can also be used to spread salt on icy walkways and paths. But knowing which spreader is right for your property and needs requires a little research, which is why we tested 13 popular models before selecting just nine to recommend. Based on our tests and the professional opinions of two lawn care experts, we chose the [Earthway 50-lb. Commercial Broadcast Spreader]() as our top pick. This three-point fertilizer spreader holds a substantial amount of product, delivers a consistent spread pattern, and is easy to maneuver—even when full. However, there's also a lot to like about the rest of the models that passed our tests, so it's worth reviewing all of the best fertilizer spreaders before choosing the one that's right for you. 1. **BEST OVERALL:** [Earthway 50-lb. Commercial Broadcast Spreader]() [↓ *Jump to Review*](<#earthway-50-lb-commercial-broadcast-spreader>) 2. **BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:** [Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader]() [↓ *Jump to Review*](<#scotts-turf-builder-edgeguard-mini-broadcast-spreader>) 3. **UPGRADE PICK:** [Scotts Elite Spreader]() [↓ *Jump to Review*](<#scotts-elite-spreader>) 4. **BEST FOR LARGE YARDS:** [Agri-Fab 130-lb. Push Broadcast Spreader]() [↓ *Jump to Review*](<#agri-fab-130-lb-push-broadcast-spreader>) 5. **BEST PULL-BEHIND:** [Agri-Fab 130-lb. Tow-Behind Broadcast Spreader]() [↓ *Jump to Review*](<#agri-fab-130-lb-tow-behind-broadcast-spreader>) 6. **BEST MANUAL HANDHELD:** [Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader]() [↓ *Jump to Review*](<#scotts-whirl-hand-powered-spreader>) 7. **BEST BATTERY HANDHELD:** [Ryobi 18V One+ 1-Gallon Power Spreader]() [↓ *Jump to Review*](<#ryobi-18v-one-1-gallon-power-spreader>) ![Best Fertilizer Spreader]() *Photo: Mark Wolfe for BobVila.com* ## Fertilizer Spreaders Comparison Chart | **Product Name** | **Type** | **Capacity** | **Flow Controller** | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [Earthway 50-lb. Commercial Broadcast Spreader]() | Walk-behind, rotary | 50 pounds | Sliding lever | | [Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader]() | Walk-behind, rotary | 25 pounds | Dial and spring lever | | [Scotts Elite Spreader]() | Walk-behind, rotary | 60 pounds | Dial and spring lever | | [Agri-Fab 130-lb. Push Broadcast Spreader]() | Walk-behind, rotary | 130 pounds | Sliding lever | | [Agri-Fab 130-lb. Tow-Behind Broadcast Spreader]() | Tow-behind, rotary | 130 pounds | Sliding lever | | [Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader]() | Handheld, rotary | 2 pounds | Dial and spring trigger | | [Ryobi 18v One+ 1-Gallon Power Spreader]() | Handheld, rotary | 10 pounds | Dial and sliding lever | ## Our Top Picks Each of the following models earned a spot on our list based on their standout performance in our hands-on tests. Read on to learn more about their spreading capacity, holding capacity, precision, and method of operation. **Our Ratings:** Durability **5/5**; Maneuverability **5/5;** Ease of Assembly **5/5**; Storage **3/5**; Value **5/5** The Earthway walk-behind broadcast fertilizer spreader is a commercial-grade multiuse spreader sized for yards between 10,000 square feet and an acre. It features a heavy-duty poly hopper with a 50-pound capacity, and its frame has a 175-pound load-bearing limit for withstanding uneven terrain. The 13-inch-diameter stud tires are attached via rustproof rims, and the super-duty gearbox is durable enough to last for years. While the assembly instructions for this pick were incredibly easy to follow, assembly and calibration still took a few hours. However, once we got started actually using this rugged yard fertilizer spreader, we found its two-position height adjustment handle and T-speed lever comfortable despite our different heights, and we liked how evenly the three-hole drop shut-off system delivered product across our lawn. Even when fully loaded, the air-filled pneumatic stud tires rolled effortlessly up and down slopes and over rough ground, cushioning bumps to maintain a highly consistent distribution pattern. In addition to being an excellent choice for year-round use as a lawn seed fertilizer spreader, this Earthway model would also work well with ice-melting products. **What our tester says:** "Once we got to testing this spreader, we both remarked on how durable it felt and how comfortable and easy it was to operate. Since it is on the large side, it would be nice if it had a rain cover so we could store it outside, but that's really the only thing about this pick that we don't love."—Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer **Get the Earthway fertilizer spreader at** [**Amazon**]()**,** [**The Home Depot**]()**,** [**Walmart**]()**, or** [**Northern Tool + Equipment**]()**.** **Our Ratings:** Durability **3/5**; Maneuverability **3/5;** Ease of Assembly **5/5**; Storage **5/5**; Value **5/5** Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard mini broadcast spreader is small, lightweight, and easy to store, making it ideal for those with limited space. Though it can hold up to 5,000 square feet of lawn products for yards up to 10,000 square feet, its fold-down handle makes it easy to tuck out of the way when the work is complete. It also includes a control panel with precision rate settings for more accurate coverage and an EdgeGuard feature that blocks the right side to prevent fertilizer from spraying onto sidewalks or flower beds. During testing, we appreciated that this little spreader didn't need any assembly. Its hard plastic wheels came attached and the spreader itself was already calibrated. Still, the wheels are fairly skinny and hard, so they didn't roll as smoothly across uneven ground as air-filled tires. Also, we noticed that the last bits of product always got stuck to the bottom of the spreader due to static buildup. For the price, though? It's a great choice for homeowners with small- to mid-sized yards and limited storage space who still want easy operation and precision coverage. **Get the Scotts EdgeGuard fertilizer spreader at** [**Lowe's**]()**,** [**Tractor Supply Co.**]()**,** [**Ace Hardware**]()**,** [**The Home Depot**]()**,** [**Walmart**]()**, or** [**Scotts**]()**.** **Our Ratings:** Durability **4/5**; Maneuverability **3/5;** Ease of Assembly **4/5**; Storage **4/5**; Value **4/5** The Scotts Elite spreader is a high-capacity option designed to efficiently cover up to 20,000 square feet with 60 pounds of product. Its twin discharge design evenly lays down material in a 6-foot-wide path, meaning it spreads fertilizer twice as fast as more basic models. Assembly of the Scotts Elite was quick and easy—all we had to do was snap on the wheels and unfold the handle. The soft plastic wheels rolled much more easily over varying terrain than the standard hard-plastic wheels on less expensive Scotts spreaders, but not as well as air-filled tires. We liked that the comfortable ergonomic handle has a smartphone holder so you can stay connected as you work. This is also a versatile spreader since it can accommodate large particles of corrosive rock salt in addition to standard-sized ice melt, making it a good all-around spreader for midsize suburban yards, especially in icy climates. **Get the Scotts Elite fertilizer spreader at** [**Lowe’s**]()**,** [**Tractor Supply Co.**]()**,** [**Ace Hardware**]()**,** [**Walmart**]()**, or** [**Blain's Farm & Fleet**]()**.** **Our Ratings:** Durability **4/5**; Maneuverability **5/5;** Ease of Assembly **2/5**; Storage **2/5**; Value **4/5** The Agri-Fab push broadcast spreader is big enough to apply conventional or [organic lawn fertilizer]() to yards of up to 1 acre. With a 130-pound hopper, it holds nearly three times as much product as our top two picks. Depending on how you have it set, it can distribute a path width of 8 to 12 feet and cover up to 25,000 square feet with each load. Despite its large capacity, this lightweight spreader weighs only 6.81 pounds, enabling excellent maneuverability even when full. Its steel rod flow-control arm makes it easy for users to open and close the rustproof poly-constructed hopper, and the heavy-duty 1-inch pneumatic tires offer a smooth ride even over roots and rocks or through dips in the yard. Assembly of this spreader takes about an hour, plus you'll need another 10 minutes or so to calibrate it. Although the coverage path is similar to 50-pounder spreaders, the massive hopper reduces time spent refilling, making it an efficient option for larger properties. **Get the Agri-Fab push fertilizer spreader at** [**Northern Tool + Equipment**]()**.** **Our Ratings:** Durability **4/5**; Maneuverability **4/5;** Ease of Assembly **3/5**; Storage **2/5**; Value **4/5** The Agri-Fab pull-behind fertilizer spreader functions as a large motorized fertilizer spreader when attached to a lawn tractor, riding lawn mower, or other vehicle via its universal hitch. Designed for properties of 1 acre or more, it features a 130-pound heavy-duty plastic hopper and a steel direct flow control arm, which is accessible from the driver's seat for quick and even application of seed and other lawn care materials. When trying out this tow-behind model, we liked its squatty dimensions, short hitch length, and 13-inch pneumatic tires, which made it highly maneuverable, even around curves. The low height also allowed for easier loading and improved stability on hilly ground. However, we found the control lever, located on the trailer tongue, to be somewhat awkward to operate from the mower seat. **Get the Agri-Fab tow-behind fertilizer spreader at** [**Amazon**]()**,** [**Lowe's**]()**,** [**Tractor Supply Co.**]()**,** [**Walmart**]()**,** [**Northern Tool + Equipment**]()**, or** [**Blain's Farm & Fleet**](). **Our Ratings:** Durability **4/5**; Maneuverability **5/5;** Ease of Assembly **5/5**; Storage **5/5**; Value **4/5** The Scotts Whirl fertilizer hand spreader is a convenient year-round tool for small yards. It measures just 8.5 inches high by 8.7 inches wide by 13.1 inches deep and weighs only about a pound, making it convenient to carry and store. Since it's constructed from heavy-duty plastic, it's safe to use with everything from spring and [winter grass fertilizer]() to ice melt without worrying about corrosion, as you might with a spreader with metal components. We liked this spreader because it takes up almost no storage space and is super easy to operate. All we had to do was fill the hopper, squeeze the trigger, and turn the handle. It has an adjustment dial to control the opening width, and the trigger opens the hopper gate to release the material as you turn the baseplate crank. There's even a slide-out wrist support to help steady the hopper and reduce operator fatigue during use. This would be a good tool for seeding bare spots created by [chinch bug damage](), treating difficult-to-reach areas, or spreading ice-melt products. **Get the Scotts Whirl fertilizer spreader at [**The Home Depot**]()**, [**Lowe’s**]()**,** [**Tractor Supply Co**]()**.,** [**Ace Hardware**]()**, or** [**Walmart**]()**.** **Our Ratings:** Durability **4/5**; Maneuverability **5/5;** Ease of Assembly **5/5**; Storage **5/5**; Value **4.25/5** The Ryobi 18V (volt) One+ 1-gallon power spreader is a cordless battery-powered tool that makes it easy to distribute fertilizer and seed as well as [ice melt](). Compatible with the brand's One+ battery system and equipped with a 10-pound hopper, it's great for quick and easy application in small- to medium-sized spaces. It features an adjustable flow rate that allows you to customize spread based on material and desired coverage and a lightweight design that's easy to maneuver, especially compared to large, push-type spreaders. Those looking to cover a large property will likely find their hand getting tired since there's no always-on setting. Instead, users must hold the trigger down to propel product out, making it a better option for spot treatments or small spaces. However, if you already own compatible 18V Ryobi tools and prefer the precision of a hand spreader, it's an excellent option. **What our tester says:** "I like this little battery-powered hand spreader for spot-treating areas of my yard that seem to struggle, but I also used it this past winter to apply salt to my front porch and steps so delivery people didn't slip. Since I already had other 18V Ryobi tools, this multi-function spreader made an especially nice addition to my lineup."—Michelle Larson, Product Reviews tester and writer **Get the Ryobi fertilizer spreader (tool only) at** [**The Home Depot**]()**.** ## [Jump to Our Top Picks](<#recap>) ## How We Tested the Best Fertilizer Spreaders | **Testing Stats** | | --- | | Products tested | 13 | | Hours/weeks/time spent testing | 37 hours | | Tests performed | 5 | | Price range | $30 to $370 | Testing fertilizer spreaders meant rating them based on ease of assembly and calibration; distribution width, accuracy, and consistency; ease of controlling the on-off function while in motion; maneuverability over varying terrain; and user comfort. To arrive at these ratings, we assembled each model, loaded them with lawn fertilizer, and ran them across a tarp on level ground, measuring discharge width and consistency. During that process, we tested the on-off functionality while moving, which is important at start-up and when preparing for end turns. Finally, we pushed or pulled each spreader through a variable-terrain course, observing the way it rolled over bumps and dips and navigated corners. | **Product Name** | **Durability** | **Maneuverability** | **Ease of Assembly** | **Storage** | **Value** | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [Earthway 50-lb. Commercial Broadcast Spreader]() | 5 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 5 | | [Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader]() | 3 | 3 | 5 | 5 | 5 | | [Scotts Elite Spreader]() | 4 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 | | [Agri-Fab 130-lb. Push Broadcast Spreader]() | 4 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 4 | | [Agri-Fab 130-lb. Tow-Behind Broadcast Spreader]() | 4 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 4 | | [Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader]() | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 | | [Ryobi 18v One+ 1-Gallon Power Spreader]() | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.25 | ## What to Consider When Choosing a Fertilizer Spreader To help us determine which fertilizer spreader features matter most, we also spoke to Taylor Olberding, co-founder of nationwide lawn maintenance company [Heroes Lawn Care](), for his professional opinion. In addition to considering your property's size and unique features, it's also important to consider whether you'd rather push, pull, or carry the spreader and whether there are any extras that might make using it more comfortable. You'll also want to pay attention to what it's made from since some materials are more durable than others. According to Olberding, users should “Ensure it has air-filled tires (not plastic tires), is made of stainless steel/noncorrosive material with a plastic hopper, and can be easily configured based on the fertilizer product.” He also adds, “Ensure you are able to adjust the openings for accurate application and have an edge guard to help prevent fertilizer from spreading onto nontarget areas.” ### Types of Fertilizer Spreaders Two basic types of spreaders exist for dry applications––rotary spreaders, also known as broadcast spreaders—and drop spreaders. There are also spreaders designed for liquid products, including [homemade lawn fertilizer](). #### Rotary/Broadcast Spreaders A rotary spreader uses a rotating base plate to disperse seeds or granules that pour slowly from a hopper. They are called broadcast spreaders because they throw the product several feet to the front and sides of the spreader path. Rotary spreaders cover an area three times their width, or broader, on every pass. These are the fastest tools you can use to spread dry materials, but their spreading abilities are less accurate than those of drop spreaders. Rotary spreaders are available in several sizes, so you can buy one that works for a tiny garden, a large estate lawn, and anything in the middle. #### Drop Spreaders When precision is critical, choose a drop spreader. These devices drop a swath of product through a wide, narrow opening directly beneath the spreader. They provide calibrated coverage, but the precision boosts the chance that the user will miss or double-cover an area. For users who have precise application needs, this tool is ideal. Users can easily control where a drop spreader distributes the product because it only drops between its wheels. The downside is that users will spend more time covering a lawn using a drop spreader than a rotary spreader. #### Liquid/Spray Spreaders The most efficient way to spread liquid fertilizer and other liquid lawn treatments is with a hose-end chemical spreader/sprayer. These devices automatically mix the correct proportion of concentrated chemicals with a flowing stream of water that travels through the spreader and out the nozzle. Liquid spreaders are especially useful as secondary tools for emergency treatments and for applying product quickly, although they are less accurate than the other two types of spreaders. Remember, too, that liquid lawn chemicals deliver fast results, but most liquids dissipate more quickly than granules, so regular use is costly. ### Method of Operation The most popular spreaders are broadcast because they offer a balance between speed and precision. Manufacturers make these spreaders in a wide range of sizes, including everything from small, handheld models to extra-large spreaders that can be pulled behind vehicles. Drop spreaders are the best choice when users must navigate obstacles and narrow spaces. They work exceptionally well on small to medium intensively landscaped yards. ### Holding Capacity It is important to know the spreader's holding capacity because that will determine how often the spreader will have to be refilled based on the size of the area it needs to cover. Ideally, users will want to simply fill the spreader once and deposit the treatment over the entire area. Holding capacity and lawn size go hand in hand. A handheld spreader is well suited for small lawns up to 1,500 square feet. For medium-sized lawns up to 5,000 square feet, a small walk-behind spreader suits the job. Large walk-behind spreaders work well for yards up to about 20,000 square feet. Go for a tow-behind spreader if the yard is larger than half an acre. ### Spreading Capacity Spreading capacity refers to the [types of fertilizers]() or materials a spreader can handle. The best fertilizer spreaders can help with [planting grass seeds]() and distributing pelletized chemicals, but far fewer can handle sand, powdered lime, and compost. ### Precision All lawn spreaders deliver better precision than spreading fertilizer by hand, making them useful tools since applying too much or too little product is one of the most common fertilizer mistakes people make. Still, some spreaders are more precise than their competitors, and spreaders that are more accurate tend to be slower. For example, drop spreaders are precise but slow, whereas broadcast spreaders are a bit less accurate but fast. Liquid spreaders are not exact, but they are quite quick. Drop spreaders are the most precise because manufacturers calibrate them for a consistent flow rate to spread only a thin band directly beneath the hopper and between the wheels. You can calibrate a broadcast spreader to deliver a steady flow rate, but you must walk at a consistent pace for even coverage. Manufacturers calibrate liquid spreaders to mix the amount of concentrate per gallon of water accurately, but you are in control of the coverage. ## The Advantages of Owning a Fertilizer Spreader A fertilizer spreader simplifies lawn treatments because it allows users to quickly and evenly apply seed, fertilizer, and lawn pest control products. You will also save time and money using a spreader because it allows you to quickly and evenly apply lawn products. - Spreaders apply lawn treatments far more evenly than hand spreading. - Fertilizer spreaders significantly reduce the time and effort users expend to apply lawn treatments. - The use of a fertilizer spreader for lawns minimizes the user’s exposure to chemicals. ## FAQs Even if you've already chosen the best fertilizer spreader for your yard, you may still have a few questions. The following answers to frequently asked questions should fill in any remaining gaps in your knowledge about operating and caring for these tools. ## Meet the Tester Mark Wolfe is a product tester and writer with an extensive background in the nursery and landscaping industries. He kept his tool box well stocked in order to build or repair fences, walls, irrigation systems, and equipment on any given day. Now he tests and writes reviews about the latest hand tools, lawn care products, outdoor power equipment, and other outdoor-living goods. ## Author Mark Wolfe is a BobVila.com staff writer with an extensive background in the horticulture industry. Since 2020, he has contributed numerous gardening and home improvement articles, along with a variety of tool and product reviews.