The basics of using a Spreader

Using a spreader enables you to apply granular products evenly across your lawn, giving you consistent coverage and helping you get the best results. You can absolutely throw products out by hand, but results can often be streaky and difficult to get a nice even result. Here is the simple process for spreading products on your lawn:

Step 1: Measure the product

Start by working out the size of your lawn in metres squared using google earth or a good old tape measure, then check the product label for the recommended application rate. Now check the bottom of the spreader where the product falls out from and open the handle/ press the button to engage the spreader to see how much it opens up. To start with make sure it only lets a small amount of product through.   

Keep in mind that different products can have different sized granules called 'prills'. Larger prills flow more slowly than smaller prills, so spreader settings can vary between products.

Step 2: Apply evenly

Walk at a slow but consistent pace to apply the product across the lawn in multiple directions eg walk up and down then lawn, then across. If it seems like only a tiny amount of product is coming out of the spreader, turn it to the next setting then repeat the process of walking across in different angles. Aim to not leave gaps or overlap the product as much as possible. 

As you become more confident with your spreader and understand how quickly it applies the product, you can adjust the setting accordingly, as well as adjust for variations in prill size. 

The goal is an even application, never to get the product applied in one pass. 

Step 3: Water in if required

Always check the product label for watering instructions but nearly all of the time granular products require a good soak after application. 6-10mm of irrigation (~45 minutes of a sprinkler running) is quite common. Leaving a product unwatered can lead the burning of the lawn and reduced uptake of the product, so always make sure you've checked off this step after reading the label. 

A little extra care when measuring and spreading can make a big difference to how evenly your lawn receives the product, and the results that you get!

BONUS SECTION- WHAT TYPE OF SPREADER

Smaller lawns (under 150m2): Hand help spreaders are perfect in this situation as they can generally hold the 2-3kg required and be refilled easily. You can get battery spreaders from a lot of different tools brands which do an excellent job and can be more efficient, but on a more budget friendly note manual hand-crank spreaders are super effective as well. 

Medium-large lawns (150m2 and over): Generally a walk-behind spreader will be the most effective tool for spreading products the larger a lawn gets. There are multiple brands available, just have a look around and see what suits your yard and budget.

**For any spreader you buy remember that a well-functioning piece of equipment will lead to cleaner results and be less likely to spill or malfunction**

I hope this article was helpful, happy spreading!!