Choosing the Best Lawn Spreader: Professional Insights & Recommendations

A Comprehensive Guide on Choosing the Right Broadcast Spreader for Lawn Care Professionals

Key Takeaways

•  The Importance of Durability:  Investing in a long-lasting spreader like the stainless steel Lesco can save money in the long run.

•  Quality vs. Quantity:  A higher upfront cost can often mean a product that lasts longer and performs better.

•  Maintenance Can Prolong Life:  Regular care, even for top-tier spreaders, ensures longevity and better performance.

•  Availability of Parts:  Choose spreaders where replacement parts are easily available.

•  Used Spreaders Offer Value:  Second-hand quality spreaders can be a budget-friendly option without compromising on performance.

•  Tailor to Your Needs:  The right spreader varies based on job size and specific requirements.

•  Power Spreaders for Efficiency:  For those looking to save time, powered spreaders might be worth the investment.

Every lawn care professional knows the importance of a reliable broadcast spreader. It plays a pivotal role in ensuring that seeds, fertilizers, and other lawn care products are evenly distributed across a lawn. But with numerous options in the market, the decision-making process can become daunting. 

Think about it: Which spreader provides the most value for the price? How significant is durability when considering cost? Let’s dive in and dissect the pros and cons of some of the top choices discussed by professionals who've been in the trenches.

The Resounding Vote: Lesco Stainless Steel Spreaders

In my experience, when lawn care professionals discuss spreaders, the Lesco stainless steel models, especially the 80lb, tend to dominate the conversation. Let's dig a little deeper into why this particular brand and model is held in such high esteem:

•  Durability:  Most people don't know this, but a common sentiment is that the stainless steel Lesco spreaders last " near forever". The stainless steel composition prevents the quick rusting which many other spreaders suffer from, particularly when exposed to fertilizers.

•  Availability of Parts:  If something does go wrong, finding replacement parts for Lesco spreaders is relatively easy, which can extend the life of the spreader.

•  Industry Standard:  Not only have professionals been using this brand for years, but many claim the 80lb Lesco is essentially the industry standard.

On the other hand, the price tag attached to the Lesco spreaders, especially the 80lb model, is not insignificant. Many professionals wrestle with the idea of investing around $600 for a spreader. However, think about it: If the spreader truly lasts "forever," that cost is spread out over numerous years, arguably providing great value.

Alternative Options to Consider

1.  Used Spreaders:  One alternative is to buy a used spreader. With the rise of ride-on spreaders, some professionals may have push spreaders they no longer use. Purchasing used can provide the quality of a higher-end spreader at a fraction of the price.

2.  Echo 60lb Spreader:  Retailing at around $149.99, this model is mentioned as being well-built and provides good value for its price.

3.  Earthway 50lb Spreader:  Another alternative, the Earthway spreader has a plastic hopper which prevents rusting. It's versatile and can handle fertilizer and salt. It's particularly effective when dealing with granular substances, but it might struggle with clumpier materials.

4.  Anderson’s Professional Stainless Steel Spreaders:  Anderson's, which now makes some of the original Scott’s models, is seen as a high-quality, albeit pricier, option. Some professionals swear by its durability, with spreaders lasting several decades.

5.  Power Spreaders:  Some professionals recommend powered spreaders, highlighting their efficiency. They can dramatically cut down the time required for a job, which might justify the investment.

Words of Wisdom from the Pros

A few key takeaways resonated from the pros' insights:

•  Quality Over Quantity:  Simply put, investing in a quality spreader might hurt initially, but in the long run, it's likely to pay off in durability and performance.

•  Maintenance Matters:  Even the best spreaders need care. Regular washing and occasional application of products like WD40 can prolong the life of a spreader.

•  Consider Your Needs:  The ideal spreader for a vast golf course might differ from that for a suburban lawn. Tailor your choice to your specific needs and business scope.

In conclusion, choosing the right spreader for your lawn care business is pivotal. Based on the results of this discussion, while the Lesco stainless steel spreaders come out on top, there are multiple good options out there.

The key is to evaluate your budget, needs, and desired longevity of the product before making a decision. After all, the right spreader can make your work more efficient and yield better results for your clients.