Lawn Synergy Application Tool

Find the Right Spreader Setting for Your Lawn Product

Select your product, spreader brand, and model to get a recommended starting setting for fertilizer, grass seed, pre-emergent, weed control, and other granular lawn products.

Covers popular spreaders Built for Lawn Synergy rates Helps prevent over-application

Lookup Tool

Spreader Settings Lookup

Select your product and spreader to get a recommended starting point.

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Spreader settings are a starting point. Your actual setting may vary based on walking speed, spreader age, humidity, and how easily the product flows. For best results, measure your lawn and divide the product into portions for each section of your yard. For example, if your front yard is 2,000 sq. ft. and your backyard is 3,000 sq. ft., set aside the right amount of product for each area before spreading. Start with the recommended setting, spread evenly, and adjust slightly if needed so the product runs out as you finish that section—not too early and not with a lot left over.

Before You Spread

The 3-Step Check

Use these quick checks to avoid over-applying or running out before the lawn is finished.

Portion the Product

Portion the Product

Split your lawn into sections and use the correct amount in each area.

Adjust as You Go

Adjust as You Go

If you are halfway through the lawn, you should be close to halfway through the product.

Backup Chart

Quick Reference Spreader Settings Chart

Use this chart as a backup reference if you do not see your exact product or spreader in the lookup tool.

Spreader Model 2 lbs 3 lbs 4 lbs 5 lbs 6 lbs
Scotts Spreaders 4 4.5 5 5.5 6
Lesco Spreader 12 13 14 15 16
Earthway EV-N-Spread 2600 Rotary 12 14 15 16 17
Earthway 2150 Commercial Broadcast 14 15 16 17 18
Echo RB-60 Broadcast Spreader 4 4.5 5 5.5 6
Sta-Green Rotary Spreader 3 4 5 6 7
Spyker P20-5010 Broadcast Spreader 3.5 4 4.5 5 5.5

Quick Reference

Popular Spreader Starting Points

Use these as general starting points when applying Lawn Synergy granular products.

Scotts Spreaders 5 to 5.5
Lesco 50 lb / 80 lb Rotary 14-16
Echo RB-60 5 to 5.5
Earthway 2150 16 to 17

FAQs

Spreader Settings Questions

Answers to common spreader setting and calibration questions.

Why are spreader settings starting points?

Settings can vary based on walking speed, spreader condition, product density, and humidity.

How do I know if I am applying the right amount?

Divide your lawn into sections and portion your bag accordingly.

What is the best setting for grass seed?

For most grass seed blends, 4-5 lbs per 1,000 sq ft is sufficient for overseeding. Set your spreader on a lower setting and go over the area twice in opposite directions for even coverage.

For new lawn installation, 8-10 lbs of cool-season grass seed is recommended. Large bare areas must be properly prepared where loose soil is touching the seed. Also, topdress with peatmoss or seed-aide to help hold moisture needed for germination.

Do spreader settings vary by product type?

Yes. Fertilizers, weed & feed, and grass seed all require different rates. Check the label or use the widget above.

How do I calibrate my spreader?

Measure a known area of lawn, such as 1,000 square feet. Add the recommended amount of fertilizer for that area into your spreader. Apply evenly over the area. If you run out too soon, lower the setting. If you have product left over, slightly increase the setting.

What happens if I apply too much fertilizer?

Applying too much fertilizer can cause uneven growth, lawn burn, excessive top growth, or nutrient waste. It is better to apply slightly light and make a second pass than to apply too heavily in one pass.

Why did my lawn have stripes after spreading fertilizer?

Stripes usually happen when the spreader pattern is uneven, passes are too far apart, or the spreader setting is too high. To prevent striping, overlap broadcast spreader passes slightly and maintain a consistent walking speed.

Do I need to water in fertilizer after applying?

Most granular fertilizers should be watered in after application to help move nutrients into the soil and activate the product. If the product contains weed control or pre-emergent, follow the specific watering instructions on the label.

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