Hand held spreader

Types of hand-held spreaders

A hand-held spreader is an equipment used to spread seeds, fertilizers, ice melters, and other small particle materials uniformly over a given area. Hand-held spreaders can be of many types.

• Drop spreader

  A drop spreader distributes materials vertically by dropping them through a hopper. The well-controlled spreading process has a precise material placement, making it ideal for laying seeds and fertilizers on the lawn. However, the spreader requires the user to make straight passes without overlapping to achieve precise application, which could be a challenge and make the lawn care process time-consuming.

• Broadcast spreader

  This type of hand-held spreader uses a rotating disk to spread seeds or fertilizers in a wide, circular pattern. The spreader is popular among lawn care enthusiasts because it hastens the seeding process, which is efficient for large areas. However, the method can be inaccurate, posing a risk of over-fertilizing or under-fertilizing the lawn.

• Pint-sized spreader

  This hand-held spreader is small and designed for easy use with one hand. It comes with a bag that can be used for various materials like seeds, fertilizers, and ice melt, making it versatile for indoor and outdoor use. The spreader is manufactured to come in various sizes and can be adjusted to control the flow of the material. However, the pint-sized spreader is suitable mostly for small area application.

• Rotary Spreader

  This spreader has a circular dish in which the material to be spread is placed and then rotated to distribute the material evenly over a given area. It is designed for large area coverage and is commonly used for spreading lawn fertilizer, grass seeds, and rock salt for ice control on driveways and sidewalks. Rotary spreaders provide a quick, efficient, and uniform application of materials. However, the precision control may be limited, and there could be a potential for uneven distribution to occur.

• Wheel Spreader

  A push wheel spreader has wheels to which small trays are mounted for carrying and uniformly distributing materials like seeds and fertilizers. Wheel spreaders are available in different sizes and are suitable for small to large area applications. They are easy to use and ensure an even distribution of materials. Some models have adjustable spreading widths and made to be used for lawn care, gardening, landscaping, and agriculture.

Specifications & maintenance of hand-held spreaders

Specifications

• Sizes: Hand-held fertilizer spreaders usually come in various sizes, like small (1-5kg), medium (6-15kg), and large (16-25kg) capacities. Specific size offerings depend on the spreader's purpose and design.
• Throwing distance: The spreading distance of hand-held spreaders generally ranges from 1 to 5 meters or even longer, depending on the spreader's design, adjusting functions, and type of material. The spreading distance for salt spreaders can be up to 10 meters.
• Coverage width: Usually, it varies from 0.5 to 3 meters, depending on the spreader's design and settings. For some hand-held spreaders, the coverage width can be up to 4 meters.
• Material: Hand-held spreaders are commonly made of plastic and steel. Plastic spreaders are lighter and more resistant to rust, while steel spreaders offer increased durability and stability.
• Adjustment options: Many hand-held spreaders provide adjusting options so users can change the spreading quantity based on their needs. The lowest spreading amount is usually 0.5-1kg/100m², and the highest is 5-20kg/100m².

Maintenance

• Cleaning:

  After use, thoroughly clean the spreader to prevent residue buildup. Use water and a brush to clean the inside, outside, and spreading mechanism, making sure to remove any stuck material. This helps avoid corrosion and blockage.

• Drying:

  After cleaning, dry the spreader to prevent rusting or corrosion. Hand-held spreaders made from plastic and stainless steel can be simply air-dried, but for those made of mild steel, users can wipe them with a clean cloth and apply a thin layer of oil on the exposed metal parts to prevent rust.

• Lubrication:

  Regularly lubricate the moving parts, such as bearings and axles, using appropriate lubricant. This can ensure their smooth operation and prolong their service life.

• Inspection and repair:

  Periodically inspect the spreader for signs of wear or damage, such as broken, loose, or blocked parts. If any problems are found, repair or replace them promptly to ensure normal use. Some common problems are as follows:

  Common problems

  • Stuck mechanism:

    The spreading mechanism may get stuck due to material residue or dirt buildup. Cleaning it promptly can avoid this problem.

  • Loose parts:

    Over time, some parts may become loose, affecting the spreader's function. Regular inspection and timely fastening can prevent this.

  • Wheel wear:

    Hand-held spreaders are usually equipped with wheels, which may wear out over time, affecting movement. Users need to replace the worn wheels as needed to ensure normal use.

Scenarios

Handheld fertilizer spreaders serve several important functions in various tasks and industries. Some of them are the lawn spreader for grass seed; in this case, the spreader will be used to broadcast grass seeds over bare patches of the lawn or an entire area to achieve a thicker, healthier, and greener lawn. When achieving a green lawn is not part of the agenda, the lawn spreader can also be used to cover an area with pesticides and herbicides to control weeds and pests. Use the handheld spreader to evenly spread fertilizer across garden beds, including flower beds and vegetable patches, to promote even growth and healthy plants.

Gardening enthusiasts and homeowners may also use the handheld spreader to spread sand on pathways or driveways or salt on icy sidewalks to improve traction in winter. Some lawns may also require overseeding with clover and other plants to enhance biodiversity and soil health. The clover seeds can easily be spread using a handheld spreader. Reseeding areas of the lawn that have been damaged due to heavy foot traffic or weather effects can also be done easily with a handheld model.

Homeowners and professional landscapers will use the handheld spreader to cover an area with pest deterrents such as diatomaceous earth or insecticides to protect against infestations. Handheld spreaders are also used in historic preservation or archaeological preservation to assist with the even application of materials required for stabilizing ruins, for example, lime or sand when carrying out stabilization techniques in historic places.

How to choose a hand-held spreader

Purchasers need to think about a number of aspects of the hand-held spreader to make an informed choice.'

• Scope of application

  The kinds of materials and spreading situations that the hand-held spreader can fulfill, such as fertilizers, pesticides, seeds, etc., may be different. Ensure that the spreader's application scope matches the intended use to avoid compatibility issues.

• Operating environment

  The operating environment, such as field work, gardening, or construction sites, also affects the selection of spreaders. Choose an appropriate spreader model to ensure efficiency and ease of use in different operating environments.

• Material and durability

  It is necessary to investigate widespread materials and durability, as low-quality spreaders can result in frequent breakdowns and replacement needs. Choosing a sturdy spreader can save long-term costs.

• Adjustment and control functions

  Check the adjustment and control functions of the spreader, such as dosage adjustment, width regulation, etc. These functions enable users to adjust the spreading quantity and width according to their needs, improving the accuracy and effectiveness of spreading operations.

• Comfort and ergonomics

  Factors like weight, handle design, and balance affect comfort and ergonomic considerations. Spreading can be a long and tedious task, so choosing a spreader that provides comfort and ergonomic support can reduce user fatigue and improve work efficiency.

Hand held spreader Q&A

Q1. What materials are suitable for a handheld broadcast spreader?

A1. Handheld spreaders are primarily built to spread dry materials. Most spreaders will spread different fertilizers, herbicides, insecticides, seed, lime, and sand. Certain materials with clumpy or large particle sizes, such as chalk, should be avoided since they may block the spreader's flow system. Furthermore, abrasive or corrosive materials, such as marine salt, should be used with caution since they may damage the spreader mechanism. In the event of doubt, consult the manufacturer's handbook or contact a professional for advice.

Q2. Does a hand salt spreader work?

A2. Yes, handheld spreaders can be used for salt spreading. During winter conditions, salt is spread on road and pathways to avoid ice formation and guarantee safety. It is important to note that using salt can have a detrimental impact on the environment, thus, efforts should be made to use the least quantity necessary and select the appropriate kind of salt.

Q3. What is the difference between a hand held spreader and a hand held shaker?

A3. A handheld spreader is designed to distribute materials evenly over an area while a shaker is designed to release materials in a specific pattern or at particular intervals by shaking the container. Spreaders are commonly used in agriculture, landscaping, and road maintenance, while shakers are used in cooking, science, and other activities.

Q4. How should one spread fertilizer with a handheld spreader?

A4. Calibration is necessary first. Test the spreader with the fertilizer that is to be used. Check the manufacturer's instructions on how to properly fill the spreader and set it for the right application rate. Spread the fertilizer evenly after walking at a consistent pace. Avoid overlapping or walking too far ahead to ensure even distribution. Once done, map out an area and apply the remaining fertilizer in the same manner. Finally, clean the spreader after use to avoid any possible buildup of material in the future.