Shopping for a lawn spreader can be overwhelming, leave alone confusing, thanks to the many types available. How do you know which one is right for you?
Let’s solve that puzzle together, once and for all, by discussing two popular options – broadcast spreaders vs drop spreaders.
In this article, I’ll take an in-depth look at these two types of spreaders, comparing their features so that you can make the right choice for your yard.
Brief Overview
Spreaders are machines used for dispersing materials such as fertilizer, seeds, and pesticides. They’re useful in landscaping, gardening, and farming applications to evenly distribute material over a large area.
Broadcast
A broadcast spreader is the most common type of spreader out there. It uses rotating discs with holes to cast granular or liquid materials over a wide area.
They disperse material in a wide pattern over the landscape; this makes them ideal for fertilizers, grass seed, ice melt and other materials that need even coverage across large areas. On the other hand
Broadcast spreaders can be used with dry or liquid fertilizer and come in both walk-behind models as well as push carts.
The primary advantage of using a broadcast spreader over the drop model is its ability to cover larger areas quickly due to its wider throwing distance.
Drop
A drop spreader is similar to a broadcast spreader but instead of having spinning disks it drops material from a hopper along its path without casting it outwardly. They distribute material directly under the hopper in a narrow band.
They make great choices for more precise treatments such as weed control products or granular insecticides.
Drop spreaders only work with dry materials like seeds, mulch or fertilizer since they don’t have any way to contain liquids during application.
They tend to be less expensive than broadcast spreaders but require more care when applying because you must keep the hopper at a designated height from the ground for proper distribution of product.
Whether you’re looking for strength and speed with a broadcast spreader or accuracy with a drop model, there’s sure to be one out there perfect for your needs! Let’s compare the pros and cons of each model.
Broadcast Spreaders
Advantages
Broadcast spreaders are a great choice when it comes to lawn care and gardening.
Wide Coverage
Not only do broadcast spreaders provide superior coverage of fertilizer, weed killer, or seed, but also make the job easier with their usability. They give an even coverage over wide areas quickly and easily.
Efficiency
Broadcast spreaders take less time than hand spreading materials like seeding or fertilizers which can be backbreaking labor without them!
Convenience
The convenience factor should not be overlooked either – broadcast spreaders come in push models as well as towable versions that save you tons of energy and effort while covering larger spaces faster than ever before.
All these features mean a better looking yard with less work on your part!
Disadvantages
As the name implies, broadcast spreaders have the potential to be a fast and efficient way of spreading fertilizer or other materials. But with any tool there are bound to be some drawbacks and this is true for broadcast spreaders as well.
Possibility Of Uneven Distribution
One major disadvantage of using broadcast spreaders is that they tend to create an uneven distribution pattern on your lawn or garden. This fixed-pattern can cause problems such as over fertilizing in certain areas while under fertilizing others.
What’s more, they are not able to reach tight spaces such as corners or narrow pathways due to their wider dispersal pattern.
The Risk Of Wastage Of Material
Another issue associated with broadcast spreaders is their tendency to waste product due to its inability to target specific areas accurately.
For example, if you’re trying to apply fertilizer near a fence line, it may end up spilling out onto nearby sidewalks or driveways rather than being applied directly where needed. That means more money spent buying fertilizer and more time wasted cleaning up excess mess afterwards.
All of these factors add up quickly when considering whether broadcast spreader will best serve your needs.
Drop Spreaders
Advantages
Drop spreaders have a lot of advantages that make them ideal for many applications.
The efficiency, accuracy, precision and versatility of drop spreaders gives them an edge over other types of spreaders. These features allow users to cover more area in less time while achieving the desired results with minimal waste.
Efficiency
For starters, drop spreaders are very efficient due to their precise application capabilities. This allows users to apply just the right amount of product needed without wasting material or causing damage to the environment.
Accuracy
Drop spreaders provide a more accurate coverage than broadcast spreaders because you can control how much is applied in each spot.
Precision
The precise nature of drop spreaders also makes it easier to achieve uniform results on different surfaces. By using these tools, you can ensure that all areas get equal treatment and consistent results every time!
Versatility
Drop spreaders are incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of tasks from fertilizing large areas to spraying herbicides or pesticides in small spaces. This makes them perfect for almost any job regardless of size or complexity, allowing users to tackle difficult jobs quickly and efficiently.
Disadvantages
Drop spreaders are a common tool used when spreading fertilizer and other materials, but they have their disadvantages.
Cost
The most glaring disadvantage of a drop spreader is its cost; compared to broadcast spreaders, which can be purchased for much less.
Bulkiness
Most drop spreaders are very weighty and bulky, so it takes a lot of effort to move them around.
Slow Working Speed
These machines are often inefficient and slow in comparison to the more modern broadcasting models.
If you’re looking for speed and convenience while working on your lawn or garden, then choosing a broadcast spreader might be the way to go.
Having understood the pros and cons of these models, let’s compare and contrast between them.
Comparison And Contrast
Method Of Distribution
The primary difference between a drop spreader and broadcast spreader is in how they distribute material.
A broadcast spreader throws out particles over a wide area which makes it great for large lawns or fields. It also allows you to cover more ground faster than a drop spreader since the material is dispersed further away from the user.
On the other hand, a drop spreader releases material directly below the unit so it can be used on gardens with greater accuracy and precision when compared to a broadcast spreader.
Price
Broadcast spreaders tend to be cheaper than drop spreaders. However, broadcast spreaders require more maintenance due to their larger size and more complex parts.
Maneuverability
Unlike drop spreaders which have easy maneuverability, broadcast spreaders are not able to reach tight spaces such as corners or narrow pathways due to their wider dispersal pattern.
Accuracy
Drop spreaders provide a more accurate coverage than broadcast spreaders. Because broadcast models release material farther away from you, there may be an increased risk of waste if your application isn’t precise enough.
Working Speed
Drop spreaders lack the ability to cover larger areas quickly like broadcast applications do. Although, as earlier mentioned, they have greater accuracy.
Taking into consideration both types’ pros and cons should help you determine which one is right for your situation.
Determining The Right Choice For Your Needs
Just like any purchase decision, it’s important to weigh your options when choosing between a broadcast spreader and drop spreader. It’s also essential to consider what type of spreading task you’ll be using the spreader for.
Efficiency – Broadcast Spreader
If you’re looking for an efficient way to cover large areas quickly, then a broadcast spreader is the best choice.
Accuracy/Precision – Drop Spreader
If precision is key and accuracy matters most, then a drop spreader will get the job done right.
Size Of Land – Broadcast For Larger Areas
If you will primarily be using the equipment for larger patches of land then a broadcast spreader might work best whereas smaller areas would require better precision provided by a drop model instead. Drop spreaders, on the other hand, have fewer moving parts and can handle thinner materials with greater precision – making them great for smaller jobs or tight spaces that need precise coverage.
Ultimately, it all comes down to finding which one meets your needs in terms of budget and performance requirements.
Maintenance Tips
Maintaining for your spreader – whether a broadcast or drop model – is essential to ensure it works effectively.
For both broadcast and drop spreaders, you should:
- Frequently check the equipment for any damage or wear and tear.
- Regularly inspect hoses, nozzles, valves, etc., ensuring they’re not cracked or worn down.
- Regularly clean off dirt, grime, and other debris on the machine to prevent clogging.
- Make sure all moving parts are lubricated properly with oil or grease to avoid rusting or corrosion.
- Always empty out anything remaining in the hopper before putting it away. This will prevent materials from sticking together due to moisture build-up while sitting idle.
- Cover the machine with a tarp or plastic sheet when storing.
- Store in an area protected from weather elements such as rain and snow.
Following these simple maintenance steps can help extend the life of your spreader and make sure it operates at peak performance when needed most!
Conclusion
In conclusion, broadcast spreaders and drop spreaders each have their benefits.
Broadcast spreaders are more cost effective because they can cover a larger area with less material quickly. This makes them great for large areas that need to be covered in a short amount of time. Drop spreaders, on the other hand, provide greater accuracy when it comes to coverage so they’re ideal for smaller spaces or applications where precision is needed.
Safety should always be a top priority when using either type of spreader as both require proper caution while operating them. It’s also important to consider the type of material you’ll be spreading before choosing one over the other as some materials may work better with one than the other. In addition, double check measurements and settings before use to ensure accurate application of product.
Overall, there’s no right answer when it comes to which type of spreader works best; it really depends on what your needs are and what kind of results you want at the end of the day. Taking into consideration all factors involved will help make sure you get bang for your buck – literally!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Cost Difference Between Broadcast And Drop Spreaders?
When it comes to price, there’s quite a difference between broadcast and drop spreaders. Generally speaking, broadcast are more expensive than drops.
Broadcast spreader costs typically range from $100 – $200, depending on size and brand. Drop spreader costs usually start at around $30 but can go up to around $400 for larger models.
When deciding which type of spreader fits into your budget best, consider how often you plan to use it.
If you’re only going to be spreading fertilizer or seed occasionally, then a drop spreader may be all that you need. However, if you will be using it regularly then investing in a higher quality broadcast model might be worth the extra money in the long run!
What Type Of Material Can Be Spread Using A Broadcast Spreader?
There are several types of materials that can be used with a broadcast spreader. They include:
- Salt
- Ferilizer
- Grass seed
- Sand
- Ice Melt
- Herbicides
- Insecticides
- Granular substances like pelleted lime
No matter what material you decide to use, make sure it suits the job at hand – each one will have its own unique characteristics so do some research beforehand to determine the optimal option for your particular task.
How Large Of An Area Can A Drop Spreader Cover?
Depending on their dimensions, drop spreaders have been known to cover an area up to ten feet in diameter! Their size determines just how much ground they can cover at once.
Drop spreaders are ideal for spreading small particles like fertilizer or seed over larger areas than those that can be covered by broadcast spreaders.
A major benefit of using a drop spreader is that it allows you to target specific sections within your yard with precision accuracy. The adjustable settings allow you to adjust the rate of distribution which makes for better control when applying granular materials such as fertilizer or grass seed.
Additionally, because the material spreads out in rows rather than evenly across a wide area, the overall area coverage may not be quite as large compared to a broadcast spreader; however, this smaller-scale approach more effectively distributes material where needed without wasting valuable resources.
Are There Any Safety Hazards To Be Aware Of When Using Both Types Of Spreaders?
Whether you’re considering a broadcast or drop spreader, there are certain safety hazards you should keep in mind.
- With any kind of machinery, always take the time to read through all instructions and use it according to manufacturer’s specifications. Pay close attention to manufacturer’s warnings about safe operation distances, loading capacities and more.
- Wear appropriate clothing like long pants, closed-toe shoes and gloves while working with either piece of equipment as well.
- Make sure that kids and pets stay away from the work site as much as possible – accidents can happen very quickly if someone isn’t paying attention!
To ensure your experience with a broadcast or drop spreader goes smoothly, following safety protocols is key. Make sure you understand how each type works before attempting to operate them.
Is There A Difference In The Accuracy Of Coverage Between Broadcast And Drop Spreaders?
When comparing broadcast and drop spreaders, there’s no denying that they both have their pros and cons when it comes to achieving accurate coverage.
With a broadcast spreader, you get wide-area coverage but need to be mindful of overshooting areas due to its lack of pinpoint precision. On the other hand, a drop spreader gives you greater accuracy since you have more control over how much material each area receives considering it only drops small amounts at a time.
Ultimately, deciding on one or the other depends on what kind of coverage you’re looking for – whether total area coverage or more precise placement of material.
Photo by StockSnap.
