Owing to the rapid rate of technological advancement, it’s no surprise that the demand for mechanized agriculture has risen considerably over the past few years. Population growth, a decrease in the availability of manual labor, and several other factors have made the manual application of seeds, fertilizers and other soil additives less desirable. 

Even nurseries and lawn owners these days would rather opt for an automated spreader than go mechanical. Spreaders are used to evenly distribute grass seeds and fertilizers in the appropriate amounts across your lawn.

All spreaders have a hopper to hold the product before distribution commences, and an adjustable opening underneath to control the amount of seed or fertilizer that is let out during distribution. 

There are two types of spreaders: Drop and Broadcast, which is also known as Rotary spreaders. Unlike a drop spreader that distributes its contents in even rows, broadcast spreaders distribute in all directions, in a fan-like pattern, and cover a wider surface area per pass.  

Republic EZ Broadcast Spreader Settings 

Most lawn owners usually prefer not to calibrate their spreader to discover the precise setting. They would rather just use it on the go, irrespective of the type of spreader. However, each spreader is slightly different and many variables could affect its application rate. 

Such variables include the type of spreader you use, its age, and current working condition. Even the rate at which you walk can also affect the amount of product being distributed. Therefore, the best way to ensure that you are applying the needed amount of product is to calibrate your spreader.

While that’s the case, here are some standard broadcast spreader settings that we’ve tested on the Republic EZ spreader.

Republic EZ Broadcast Spreader Application Settings: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Mow Your Lawn

When applying fertilizers or granular soil additives, the efficacy of the product is often affected by mowing. Weed control measures can also be rendered deficient when applied on an overgrown lawn. 

So first off, you should mow and rake out your lawn before applying your chosen product. This way, the soil is exposed, and the product would have an easier and faster time reaching it. 

Step 2: Calibrate Your Spreader

You will recall that the only way to ensure that you apply the proper amount of the product in your soil is to calibrate your spreader. Follow the instructions above to ensure that your Republic EZ Broadcast Spreader is properly calibrated. 

Step 3: Fill Your Hopper

Before pouring your product into the hopper, you should ensure that it is properly closed so you don’t end up wasting it. It is also advisable that you fill your hopper on a leveled surface away from your lawn; say a drive or walkway, to avoid excess application. You wouldn’t want the wind blowing off some of the product on your lawn before you begin the application. 

In addition, sweep up any product that falls on those surfaces so it isn’t washed into waterways. If you accidentally dump some of the product on your lawn, gather up what you can then use a stiff broom to spread out what remains. 

Step 4: Apply Your Product

When applying your product, it is important to note that you are an essential part of the distribution equation. Therefore, walk at a steady pace. The slower you walk, the more of the product would be distributed. Likewise, the faster you walk, less of the product will be distributed. 

When taking turns, it is advisable to close off the spreader to avoid uneven application. After making a turn, you should start walking before opening the spreader. Also when applying, 50% of the product should be applied to one half of your yard, and the other 50% should be applied to the other half. 

You should also avoid spreading the product on windy days so your product would stay exactly where you want it to be. 

Step 5: Store Your Spreader Appropriately

It is crucial that you clean your spreader after each use. Never leave your product in the hopper after each use, because most products contain corrosive chemicals that can damage the movable parts of your spreader, and render it inoperable. We wouldn’t want that now, would we? 

What does “spreader settings” mean? 

Spreader settings is the rate at which you apply product to your lawn. That is, it is the amount of material applied per unit area of land. 

What do the numbers on my spreader mean? 

The numbers usually represent the amount of product that is to be applied over specific square feet of land. On your spreader, you can find numbers such as 6, 6 ½, and so on. 

Are drop spreaders better than broadcast spreaders? 

A broadcast spreader would ensure that different parts of your lawn receive an even distribution. A drop spreader on the other hand, is more precise because it doesn’t broadcast the product or change the amount spread based on how fast or slow you walk. 

How fast should you walk when using a broadcast spreader? 

You should walk at a slow, steady pace. Pretty much your normal walking pace. About 3 miles per hour should be sufficient to cover the entire perimeter of your lawn. You should stop once you arrive at your starting point. 

Can you spread grass seed with a drop spreader? 

Yes, you can. Thanks to the precision of drop spreaders, it is perfect for seed application.