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Tow-behind spreaders are essential for lawn care, especially on vast or hilly terrains. Hailing from a variety of manufacturers and bearing numerous models, selecting an appropriate tow-behind spreader can be intimidating. However, the correct spreader should provide an even, efficient, and hassle-free application of fertilizers, seeds, ice-melting agents, and any other granular materials.
Quality tow-behind spreaders should be robust, easy to assemble and use, and have accurate, easy-to-adjust spreading rates. Incorrect spreading rates can result in over or under-fertilization, potentially harming your lawn or yielding lackluster results. A good spreader should also have durable tires, a reliable hitch system, and a wide coverage area to complete your lawn care in as few runs as possible.
Material quality is another essential aspect to consider. The spreader should be resistant to corrosion and be able to handle harsh environmental conditions. A spreader constructed from quality, long-lasting materials will provide optimal performance and withstand the test of time.
In this article, our goal is to ease your task of choosing the best tow-behind spreader. We’ve extensively researched, tested, and analyzed various models to find the ones that stand out in terms of performance, durability, user-friendliness, and overall value for your money. By the end of this article, you’ll be armed with all the required information to choose the best tow-behind spreader that suits your needs to perfection.
Best Tow-Behind Spreaders
Deciding on the right tow-behind spreader is a crucial step for achieving a healthy, beautiful yard or garden. It is an investment that should save you time, effort, and resources. Numerous options exist in today’s market, leading to confusion on what spreader matches your unique requirements. To make the process less daunting, we’ve meticulously compiled a list of the best tow-behind spreaders, based on our hands-on experience and thorough tests with each model. Stay tuned to explore our top picks and determine which one will serve your purposes best.
Agri-Fab 45-0463 130-Pound Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient tow-behind spreader, the Agri-Fab 45-0463 130-Pound Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 50-foot spread pattern ensures efficient spreading, making it perfect for larger lawns or fields.
- The hopper holds up to 130 pounds of fertilizer, seed, or salt, making it easy to handle larger jobs with fewer refills.
- The easy-to-adjust gate controls the flow of material, allowing for precise spreading.
Cons
- The spreader is quite heavy, weighing in at 64 pounds, which may make it difficult for some users to maneuver.
- The assembly process can be time-consuming, requiring some patience and attention to detail.
- The spreader may not be suitable for use on driveways or other paved surfaces, as it could potentially damage the finish.
We’ve had the opportunity to use the Agri-Fab 45-0463 130-Pound Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader, and we’re impressed with its performance. The spread pattern is even and consistent, and the gate makes it easy to adjust the flow of material for precise spreading.
The hopper capacity is impressive, allowing us to handle larger jobs without the need for frequent refills. The adjustable spread pattern is also a nice feature, as it allows us to customize the spread pattern to our specific needs.
While the spreader is quite heavy, we found that it was easy to tow behind our ATV. The adjustable height positions also make it easy to customize the spreader to our specific needs.
Overall, we would highly recommend the Agri-Fab 45-0463 130-Pound Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader to anyone in need of a reliable and efficient tow-behind spreader.
Agri-Fab 45-0530-131, 85 lb. Tow Broadcast Spreader
If you’re looking for a reliable tow-behind broadcast spreader, the Agri-Fab 45-0530-131 is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 13-inch diameter spread pattern provides even coverage for larger lawns.
- The tow-behind design allows for easy maneuvering and minimal effort.
- The 85-pound capacity can cover up to 1/4 acre with a 50-pound bag of fertilizer.
Cons
- The spreader doesn’t come with a tow rope, so you’ll need to purchase one separately.
- The spreader doesn’t have a deflector, so you’ll need to be careful not to over-fertilize.
- The spreader’s legs are a bit flimsy and may require some extra care when assembling.
We’ve used the Agri-Fab 45-0530-131 to spread fertilizer on our lawn, and we’re impressed with its performance. The tow-behind design is a great feature, as it allows us to easily maneuver the spreader without having to push it ourselves. The 13-inch diameter spread pattern provides even coverage, so we don’t have to worry about any bare spots in our lawn.
One thing to note is that the spreader doesn’t come with a tow rope, so you’ll need to purchase one separately. Additionally, the spreader doesn’t have a deflector, so you’ll need to be careful not to over-fertilize any areas. Finally, the spreader’s legs are a bit flimsy and may require some extra care when assembling.
Overall, we would recommend the Agri-Fab 45-0530-131 to anyone looking for a reliable tow-behind broadcast spreader. Its even coverage and easy maneuverability make it a great choice for larger lawns.
Betterhood 24” Compost Spreader Peat Moss Spreader, Lightweight Metal Mesh Manure Spreader W/Adjustable T Shaped Handle for Planting & Seeding, Fertilizer Spreaders for Lawns & Garden
If you’re looking for a lightweight and durable compost spreader, the Betterhood 24” Compost Spreader Peat Moss Spreader is worth considering.
Pros
- The lightweight metal mesh design makes it easy to maneuver and spread materials evenly.
- The adjustable T-shaped handle allows for comfortable use at different heights.
- The spreader is suitable for a variety of materials, including grass seed, topsoil, compost, mulch, and more.
Cons
- The spreader may not be suitable for larger lawns or gardens.
- The included instructions may not be clear for some users.
- The spreader may not be as durable as more expensive models.
We’ve used the Betterhood 24” Compost Spreader Peat Moss Spreader for several weeks and have found it to be a reliable and efficient tool for spreading materials in our garden. The lightweight design and adjustable handle make it easy to use, and the metal mesh construction ensures durability and even spreading.
One potential downside is that the spreader may not be suitable for larger lawns or gardens, as it has a spread width of only 24 inches. Additionally, the included instructions may not be clear for some users, and the spreader may not be as durable as more expensive models.
Overall, if you’re looking for a lightweight and affordable compost spreader for your small lawn or garden, the Betterhood 24” Compost Spreader Peat Moss Spreader is a solid choice.
Scotts Elite Spreader for Grass Seed, Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt, Durable Push Spreader Holds up to 20,000 sq.ft. Product
If you’re looking for a durable and efficient spreader, the Scotts Elite Spreader is a great option.
Pros
- The Scotts Elite Spreader has a 4-wheel design that makes it easy to maneuver and covers up to 20,000 sq.ft. This means you can cover your entire lawn with ease.
- The Scotts Elite Spreader has a dial that adjusts from 5 to 50 ft. width, which means you can adjust the spread width to match the size of your lawn.
- The Scotts Elite Spreader has a metal hopper that is built to last and won’t break like plastic spreaders. This means you won’t have to replace your spreader every few years.
Cons
- The Scotts Elite Spreader is a bit heavy, weighing in at 24 pounds. This means it may be difficult for some people to maneuver.
- The Scotts Elite Spreader may be a bit expensive compared to other spreaders on the market.
- The Scotts Elite Spreader may not be suitable for smaller lawns.
We’ve used the Scotts Elite Spreader and found it to be a great option for those looking for a durable and efficient spreader. The 4-wheel design makes it easy to maneuver and cover large areas, while the adjustable spread width allows you to customize the spread to fit your lawn. The metal hopper is also a great feature, as it is built to last and won’t break like plastic spreaders.
However, the Scotts Elite Spreader is a bit heavy and may be difficult for some people to maneuver. It may also be a bit expensive compared to other spreaders on the market. Additionally, it may not be suitable for smaller lawns.
Overall, if you’re looking for a durable and efficient spreader, the Scotts Elite Spreader is a great option to consider.
Chapin 8622B Made in The USA 150-Pound Tow and Pull Behind Spreader with Auto-Stop Dual Impeller That Stops When Not Moving, Designed for Farm and Tough Terrain, Hitch Pins, Black
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty spreader that can handle tough terrain, the Chapin 8622B is a great option.
Pros
- The auto-stop feature ensures that the spreader stops spreading when it’s not moving, which helps prevent overspreading and saves on material.
- The spreader is made in the USA and comes with a 1-year warranty, which gives you peace of mind knowing that you’re getting a quality product.
- The spreader is designed to tow behind an ATV or UTV, which makes it easy to transport and use on a variety of terrains.
Cons
- The spreader only has one adjustment setting, which may not be ideal for those who need to spread different types of material at different thicknesses.
- The spreader is quite heavy, which may make it difficult for some users to tow and maneuver.
- The spreader may be a bit pricey for those on a tight budget.
The Chapin 8622B is a great option for those who need to spread material on tough terrain. The auto-stop feature is a standout feature that helps prevent overspreading and saves on material. Additionally, the spreader is made in the USA and comes with a 1-year warranty, which gives you peace of mind knowing that you’re getting a quality product. However, the spreader only has one adjustment setting and is quite heavy, which may make it difficult for some users to tow and maneuver. Overall, if you’re in the market for a heavy-duty spreader, the Chapin 8622B is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best tow behind spreader, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Spreading Width
The spreading width is an important factor to consider when choosing a tow behind spreader. It determines how much area the spreader can cover in a single pass. A wider spreading width means more coverage, but it also means a larger and heavier spreader. Consider the size of your lawn or driveway and choose a spreading width that will cover it efficiently.
Spreading Pattern
The spreading pattern refers to the shape and distribution of the material being spread. Some spreaders have a fan-shaped pattern, while others have a more even, circular pattern. Consider the type of material you will be spreading and choose a spreading pattern that will distribute it evenly and efficiently.
Capacity
The capacity of the spreader refers to how much material it can hold at one time. A larger capacity means fewer trips back and forth to refill the spreader, but it also means a heavier and more difficult-to-maneuver spreader. Consider the size of your project and choose a capacity that will meet your needs without being too cumbersome.
Construction
The construction of the spreader is an important consideration, especially if you plan to use it frequently or for heavy-duty projects. Look for a spreader made from durable materials, such as steel or aluminum, and with sturdy construction that can withstand frequent use and rough handling.
Ease of Use
Finally, consider the ease of use of the spreader. Look for features that make it easy to operate, such as adjustable settings, easy-to-read gauges, and simple controls. Consider any additional features that may make the spreader more convenient to use, such as wheels for easy maneuverability or a hopper with a tight-fitting lid to prevent spills.
