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University of Rhode Island GreenShare Factsheets

Lawn Spreader Calibration

The proper application of any lawn management materia--seed, fertilizer, limestone or a pesticide--can only be accomplished with a properly-calibrated spreader. Both the spreader and the material being applied should come with specific directions for spreader settings. However, in the event that such directions are not available, the directions below can be used to calibrate a drop-type spreader for any material.

1. Make a V-shaped trough of heavy cardboard, wood or tin. Fasten this trough beneath your spreader to catch the material you want to spread. A trough made from a piece of eaves works well--simply close off the ends with masking tape.

2. Set the spreader on a manufacturer-suggested number and cover a 100 square foot area. If your spreader is:

   • 1 foot wide, go forward 100 feet

   • 1-1/2 feet wide, go forward 66 feet

   • 2 feet wide,go forward 50 feet

   • 3 feet wide, go forward 33 feet

   • 4 feet wide, go forward 25 feet

3. Shut the spreader off when you have traveled the right distance. Weigh the collected material and multiply by 10. This will give you the amount applied for 1,000 square feet. Most material recommendations for lawn use are given on a 1,000 square foot basis.

4. If you applied too much, shut the spreader down and try again. If you applied too little, open the spreader up and try again. If it came out just right, record the setting number with the material used so you don't forget it for the next application.

Note: How materials flow varies depending upon the carrier used, storage conditions, etc. To avoid damage and to do an effective job with a new or an old material, it is always best to calibrate the spreader.

Most manufacturers will provide instructions for calibrating their brand of equipment upon request. For this information, check with the dealer from whom the spreader was purchased or contact the manufacturer directly.

Adapted from the University of Massachusetts Extension, 2000

Pesticides are poisonous! Read and follow all safety precautions on labels. Handle carefully and store in original containers out of reach of children, pets or livestock. Dispose of empty containers immediately, in a safe manner and place. Pesticides should never be stored with foods or in areas where people eat.

When trade names are used for identification, no product endorsement is implied, nor is discrimination intended against similar materials. Be sure that the pesticide you intend to use is registered for the state of use.

The user of this information assumes all risk for personal injury or property damage.

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For more information, call the URI CE Gardening and Food Safety Hotline at 1-800-448-1011 or (401)874-2929 from outside Rhode Island; Monday-Thursday between 9 am and 2 pm.

 

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