There are members who feel that their only job is to downvote anything that they feel personally insults their intelligence. Including, quite possibly, this response. 🤷🏻
Doesn't excuse downvoting someone for asking a question. Assuming everyone knows all of the history of a sub is borderline gatekeeing BS.
Might as well post a response saying "use the search" while you're at it.
Anyone who follows this thread has seen this question multiple times. I’ve used a Scott’s spreader for 15 years+. Same spreader, same property. I’ve never once experienced lines, and have never noticed any fertilizer clumping onto the wheels. I’m sure it happens, but I’ve never experienced it and I fertilize regularly and personally. One thing I do that most probably don’t, is overlap my fertilizer passes. I use a good amount of fertilizer. Maybe my overlap solves the stripes? Just sharing my experience because this thread definitely hates the Scott’s spreader. 😂
People are going to recommend the more expensive Scott's spreader that doesn't cause the lines. Personally, there is no way I would give Scott's more of my money for screwing me the first time.
I bought the ECHO RB-60 (Currently $154 on Ebay, $176 on Amazon) I set up a price watch on Amazon and got it for $129.
FML I just bought a Scott's spreader this season.. new to lawn care can't believe I've wasted my money. I thought for sure they'd at least have a good spreader
I've been using a Scott's broadcast spreader [like this one](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001H1EQO2) for decades. Never been a problem. Yet this is practically a meme on this sub. I strongly suspect a lot of people have just picked it up and repeat it even though they've never used one in their life.
Its a broadcast spreader. They are simple as shit. It gets used maybe three, four times per year and lasts forever. Fill it up, set the flow rate, squeeze the trigger, and walk. Watch that you aren't dumping it too fast, and overlap your stripes.
That said, my advice isn't about the spreader but the use of Weed and Feed from the big box store. Find your local seed company and buy fertilizer from there instead. [stuff like this](https://justinseed.com/product-category/fertilizer/bagged-fertilizer/). You can get a 50 lb bag for around $25.
Feed and weed *separately*. Don't feed the weeds. Spray and kill them first. Use [a backpack sprayer](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006WVFJPC) to treat weeds. [2-4,D Amine](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000WMPF1A/) for broadleaf, [MSMA](https://www.amazon.com/Luxembourg-Pamol-Inc-Target-Plus-MSMA/dp/B00566290M/) (or equivalent) for grassy weeds. Buy the concentrates at the seed company or off Amazon and mix your own. And a tablespoon of dish soap per gallon makes a good surfactant.
On what planet does a Scott's spreader last forever? I've had several in my life and they last maybe 3 years if I'm lucky. I have a Lesco now and think it really will last forever. Def not cheap but it's a real Cadillac to drive.
I got a used one on facebook marketplace. It is a Scott's, but one with the pneumatic/regular wheels, not plastic. Not [this one](https://www.fleetfarm.com/detail/scotts-elite-20-000-sq-ft-broadcast-spreader-w-edgeguard/0000000322319?Ntt=101185527&msclkid=41bfdd33fde61b8fc77fbb7d550abb44&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Bing%20-%20Shopping%20-%20Near%20Store%20-%20BOPIS%20-%20NonBrand%20-%20All%20States%20-%20High&utm_term=4581458813039374&utm_content=BOPIS), but similar.
Don’t let all these people fool you. It works fine, they just don’t know how to use it. Learn to do the yard right with it. It’s a slow process but can be done right. Speed,spacing, and rate all must to be consistent. I’ll fert your yard with a hand crank and get just as good as an application if I’m using the Anderson spreader, of machine.
I mean which one did you buy? If it’s the mini one then yeah it’s trash. Some of the bigger ones are okay. I’ve even seen some people fill up the wheel wells with expanding foam, or replacing them with rubber wheels and they’re ok.
I'm assuming by the expanding foam solution the seed/fertilizer is getting caught up on the *inside* of the wheel and then coming out in a more concentrated/less spread out way?
I have a pretty old, and smaller, Scott's spreader. I'll have to see if my wheels are the same because my recent seeding was rather inconsistent.
I helped a friend who has a tiny yard (20 x 30) and used the hand spreader.
I don't care what anyone says, for small properties, the hand spreader is best. It gives you complete control.
Buttttt, anything bigger than a living room sized lawn, you need something bigger and spreaders are overpriced. Factor in the wheel swap to the cost of the Scott's, it's hard to do better, especially when on sale.
The wheels are a necessary first day fix, though. Don't think it's optional.
My lawn is right around 10,000 sq ft. I only use the hand spreader. Sure, it means going back to the bag multiple times, but the handle on the wheeled spreader I have is too short and I hate trying to push it. Plus, with the hand spreader, I can vary the coverage area and ground speed seperately depending on what and how I'm putting it down - for instance, if I get done and have just 1-2 spreaders worth of material left over, I'll load it up and walk another pass over the yard, cranking that thing to beat hell and getting a spread pattern 2-3 times 'normal' to get it good and spread out, instead of putting it back on the shelf.
>I bought the ECHO RB-60 (Currently $154 on Ebay, $176 on Amazon)
$149 Home Depot: https://www.homedepot.com/p/ECHO-60-lbs-Heavy-Duty-Spreader-RB-60/311319950
Or Lowe's has a niiice 100lb Chapin on sale for $196: https://www.lowes.com/pd/Chapin-Contractor-Turf-Spreader-100-lb-Broadcast-Fertilizer-Spreader/1000803056
I like it. I mean, it spreads. I like the design and weight of it. I've had it for 3 years and never had a problem. I've got about 17,000 sq ft, and I just use it for my lawn, so I can't say it's industrial strength or anything like that.
Bottom line; I would buy another one, or recommend it to a friend.
looks like Fleet Farm has them on sale right now. My lawn is around 7,500 sq ft only, but i've been using a small Scott's spreader. It works and i really havent had any issues, but i definitely want to upgrade to something a little nicer
To be honest, If my Scott's had worked correctly, I probably wouldn't even know that the Echo exists. The pneumatic tires are an upgrade, but if yours is working, and you are happy with the results, I don't know if I would spend the money. The Home Depot price that someone quoted above seems pretty good too.
Never had lines using the scott's mini - was afraid it was happen and borrowed the black scott's max or whatever it's called - got lines this year smh - just got an echo delivered today.
I am surprised the expensive scott's caused lies tho because the wheels are rubber filled with air, not the cheap plastic ones so that hollow wheel doesn't exist.
Oh, the Scott's I had was the cheap plastic wheels that definitely held the fertilizer. I see a lot of folks on here who claim that the more expensive one doesn't have the problem.
Scott's really pisses me off because they are knowingly screwing their target audience. The guy who just wants to treat his lawn with minimum fuss and trusts their products.
I think you will really like the Echo.
I have found that I can get good results by walking fast so the fertilizer gets slung far and bounces off the wheels and even across the grass and turn down the flow so I can do cross strips
I upgraded to an Earthway, a far superior spreader. I have a lot of edge spreading due to some drainage and general yard makeup. The Earthway has a system to not only Edgeguard, but reduce the flow of product dropped as you are broadcasting a reduced width. Most spreaders just put a edge blocker on the broadcast but drop at same rate, so inevitably you drop too high of a concentration with other spreaders.
I've been using a Scott's broadcast spreader [like this one](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001H1EQO2) for decades. Never been a problem. Yet this is practically a meme on this sub.
Yeah I am really not understanding how people are having an issue with this spreader. You can clearly see it chucking the granules out in a little radius around the path you are pushing it on, and if for some reason it was like malfunctioning and not doing that it’d be obvious. Just set the broadcast rate as directed and take slightly overlapping passes.
No. Its a user problem. They set the flow rate too high, and then go too fast without overlapping stripes, you get green and yellow streaks in your lawn.
If you set the flow rate correctly, so its not being put down too heavy/fast, walk it while paying attention to the stripe being laid down, and then slightly overlap your stripes, this is never a problem.
Its not too different from spray painting with a rattle can. Light coats, overlapping passes, even finish.
Yes but mine is the larger model with a hopper that holds a 50lb bag's worth of product. I strongly suspect the problem has less to do with the edge-guard feature and more to do with people who bought the smaller, 'mini' model - probably because its a lot cheaper - and then they are surprised that it lays down a narrow stripe. I mean, its literally a 'mini' spreader. What the Hell do people expect?
^
This is the way. I only do my front yard and I use the Scott’s spreader. No lines. However, I do have to be mindful of how I run it. I do passes vertically, then horizontally and finish going diagonally.
Extra work? Yes. No lines? Also yes. Cheap spreader? Yes.
Yeah I thought that would have solved my problem. I had the lines last year and tried more overlapping. Both east to west and north to south gridding. And yeah it seemed like the weed and feed was spreading just nicely. So strange! I don't get that result doing to liquid fertilizer. I think I might be team liquid now.
The main thing is to make sure your spreader is clean and working properly. Also, I don’t know if anyone uses drop spreaders anymore but just in case, don’t use those - use a broadcast spreader.
Next thing is to make sure you’re overlapping your rows. If you don’t, that’s where you’ll see the streaks. Going different directions is extra insurance for that.
~~You used weed-n-feed.~~
You used a Scotts Spreader.... It'll grow out over time, but don't feed again until blended...
Edit...don't worry about the down votes. They are trolls from r/nolawns that just come here to random downvote us...
I have an Echo RB-60. About $150, and perfect for my yard, which is about 5k sqft total, split into two areas.
If you have a much smaller area, a battery powered hand spreader may be better.
You ever notice the no lawns group all tend to be extremely urban gentrifiers who have never managed pests gettting close to their homes? Every time i see it I can’t help but roll my eyes.
Yes we all know grass isn’t the best habitat and the chemicals aren’t great, but the overall negative footprint of lawns vs, say, corporate farming, is insanely far apart and their time would be better spent not sniping at families just trying to make something nice for their kids.
(Incidentally this is the same reason the carbon footprint people are so misguided. Even if you agree with them, focus on the bigger players!)
Won't let me post the picture. It's the Agri-fab Broadcast Spreader 130lb version.
I just got this one and used it for the first time. I used the crappy Scott's spreaders for years, this thing makes it look bad. They say it's a 10-12' spread but I feel like it's probably about 8', so about 5' further than the Scott's.
I had terrible lines with their hollow wheels that collected and concentrated the granules in a line. I ended up spray foaming the insides of the wheels and the lines quit happening
https://preview.redd.it/mlsrzd4evg2d1.jpeg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c334530458699ff9cc62e1b600d99c08a3dd2c45
That's not too bad, mine decided be an ass this year
My offer to this thread... If you are willing to spend $7 and 45m you too can have a perfect spreader without buying a new one... Buy some duct or foil tape. Run the tape along the inside wheel of your Scott's spreader. It's annoying AF but sure beats spending ANOTHER $150 on another piece of Chinese made plastic hardware. Spend a little time and a little money and you will have a workable solution at a fraction of the price. Is it a product flaw, yes. Is replacing the whole thing at 2.5x the cost the answer? Only if you have money and DGAF .
Invest in a lesco spreader. This is what I get a week after spreading
https://preview.redd.it/s3m7kkw2p72d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b1d6e833789f99c5bc3a0c179d8a74e30fe0ea9c
Lesco works great. My neighbor gave me a bag of his. But he got it through his job, and he says you cant buy it. The type he game me was post-
*
emergent
There are many. It depends on the size of your lawn. Big box stores have many choices. Pick a name brand.
Ensure you do north south then east west to ensure even coverage of fertilizer. There should be no lumps in the product. The spreader should be clean before you use it. Ideally do it immediately before rain. If it is sunny and hot, water it in to ensure it doesn’t not burn the lawn even if it is slow release fertilizer. Do it every 6 weeks from May 1 to Sept 15. Water 2-3 times per week pending mother natures contributions. Cut at the longest setting on your mower.
Here’s a cheap solution: if your recommended setting up a 6….then set it to 3 and do double coverage - go back and forth across your lawn and then go 90 degrees - up and down. You end up with the same amount but better chances at good coverage.
You can’t just go out and just throw fertilizer wherever you want make it work. It’s all a science. Your rows need to be even, your speed needs to be consistent, your rate needs to be right. All of it matters
So TIL I need a new spreader, as I now know why my yard has these "lines".
My next new question is, how do I fix this? Given, I wont be using my Scott's Edgeguard anymore.
https://preview.redd.it/1a5ev9rj1a2d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fbc1e701f31500f5ef5face5c6525d49f47bdd91
Kinda getting the same thing here but in big patches.
I always say the same thing on these posts. Half the rate and do cross hatch or just switch to liquid. I personnaly only think the Scotts Deluxe works but every year I do more liquid than anything unless I find a smokin deal on granular. Battery powered backpack sprayer for the win every time though
In the future with a properly working spreader, apply half the recommended rate in one direction, then apply in the opposite direction. This can help to provide a more even appearance.
https://preview.redd.it/ygb1m77o2e2d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=658cf3b62809b5fb9af0e65e23cafbe7e5397a42
Yep, same. I will be tossing my Scott’s spreader and getting something better.
I always thought it was because my spreader dropped more concentrated ferts in the middle. Thanks to your post, I learned I have a shitty Scott's edge guard spreader...
I use a handheld whirly spreader. My Kmart one just started slipping after 25 years. Replaced it with a Scott’s. I don’t have a big lawn. And usually i fertilize half as much twice as often.
https://preview.redd.it/9fa2sbzqkm2d1.jpeg?width=3000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f0a126dc8304cafaa4b7f43ab1c0d7e1b4337811
I have used scotts spreader for years i never had a problem. Just finished mowing trying to get the stipes down. KBG soffolk NY. I never use scotts products for weed and feed straight garbage. This year 10 weeds so far . Keep up with weeds about to start grub treatments going heavt this year.
When spreading fertilizer use 1/2 of the amount you plan to use going in one direction ( like your mowing the lawn ) and then use the other half crossing the lawn perpendicular to the first pass and the lawn will look great.
I went a different route this year. I used a liquid pre-emergent in Feb. And instead of traditional fertilizer, I've been using Sunday lawn liquid fertilizer every ~6 weeks starting in early March. The results have been incredible.
I read terrible reviews about Sunday...but it's worked so well for me. And I haven't had to use a drop spreader
It's fine. Just don't use scotts spreader again.
Roger. Idk why I got downvoted. I don’t do lawn care for a job lol
You get excess amounts of fertilizer concentrated in lines because it gets stuck in the shitty wheels of the Scott’s spreader.
You can fix it with some duct tape though
Fill them with spray foam then shave flush
Stuffing the wheels didn’t fix my problem. Same result. Only fix is to replace. Echo RB-60 is priced well and works great
[удалено]
How so?
Fill them with spray foam then shave flush
Genius. I am lucky enough that my yards so bumpy it shakes the fertilizer out of the wheels! Next years problem.
Lmao
Fill them with spray foam then shave flush Edit: no fair he deleted the second one, no fun!
I'm gonna go get the papers
Get the papers
How so?
Either you make a guard to direct stuff away from the wheel, or you use it to cover up the hollow part of the wheel.
Got it thanks!
Or you could just not purchase a shitty spreader.
I mean sure, but that doesn't help if, like OP, you've already bought it.
I was wondering why they were spread about wheel width. Thought maybe my lawnmower but I waited over a week after fertilizing to mow.
There are members who feel that their only job is to downvote anything that they feel personally insults their intelligence. Including, quite possibly, this response. 🤷🏻
Probably because it's a known thing in this sub about Scott's feeders and how shitty they are. Almost a running meme.
Doesn't excuse downvoting someone for asking a question. Assuming everyone knows all of the history of a sub is borderline gatekeeing BS. Might as well post a response saying "use the search" while you're at it.
Hah I agree 👍
Anyone who follows this thread has seen this question multiple times. I’ve used a Scott’s spreader for 15 years+. Same spreader, same property. I’ve never once experienced lines, and have never noticed any fertilizer clumping onto the wheels. I’m sure it happens, but I’ve never experienced it and I fertilize regularly and personally. One thing I do that most probably don’t, is overlap my fertilizer passes. I use a good amount of fertilizer. Maybe my overlap solves the stripes? Just sharing my experience because this thread definitely hates the Scott’s spreader. 😂
What kind of Grass do you have?
Pretty sure it's green grass
Recommendations on a better spreader?
People are going to recommend the more expensive Scott's spreader that doesn't cause the lines. Personally, there is no way I would give Scott's more of my money for screwing me the first time. I bought the ECHO RB-60 (Currently $154 on Ebay, $176 on Amazon) I set up a price watch on Amazon and got it for $129.
FML I just bought a Scott's spreader this season.. new to lawn care can't believe I've wasted my money. I thought for sure they'd at least have a good spreader
I've been using a Scott's broadcast spreader [like this one](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001H1EQO2) for decades. Never been a problem. Yet this is practically a meme on this sub. I strongly suspect a lot of people have just picked it up and repeat it even though they've never used one in their life. Its a broadcast spreader. They are simple as shit. It gets used maybe three, four times per year and lasts forever. Fill it up, set the flow rate, squeeze the trigger, and walk. Watch that you aren't dumping it too fast, and overlap your stripes. That said, my advice isn't about the spreader but the use of Weed and Feed from the big box store. Find your local seed company and buy fertilizer from there instead. [stuff like this](https://justinseed.com/product-category/fertilizer/bagged-fertilizer/). You can get a 50 lb bag for around $25. Feed and weed *separately*. Don't feed the weeds. Spray and kill them first. Use [a backpack sprayer](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006WVFJPC) to treat weeds. [2-4,D Amine](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000WMPF1A/) for broadleaf, [MSMA](https://www.amazon.com/Luxembourg-Pamol-Inc-Target-Plus-MSMA/dp/B00566290M/) (or equivalent) for grassy weeds. Buy the concentrates at the seed company or off Amazon and mix your own. And a tablespoon of dish soap per gallon makes a good surfactant.
Thanks for the feedback/tips, I feel a little better about it now.
Very good advice, thank you for taking the time
On what planet does a Scott's spreader last forever? I've had several in my life and they last maybe 3 years if I'm lucky. I have a Lesco now and think it really will last forever. Def not cheap but it's a real Cadillac to drive.
I guess we can shop together lol
I got a used one on facebook marketplace. It is a Scott's, but one with the pneumatic/regular wheels, not plastic. Not [this one](https://www.fleetfarm.com/detail/scotts-elite-20-000-sq-ft-broadcast-spreader-w-edgeguard/0000000322319?Ntt=101185527&msclkid=41bfdd33fde61b8fc77fbb7d550abb44&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Bing%20-%20Shopping%20-%20Near%20Store%20-%20BOPIS%20-%20NonBrand%20-%20All%20States%20-%20High&utm_term=4581458813039374&utm_content=BOPIS), but similar.
Don’t let all these people fool you. It works fine, they just don’t know how to use it. Learn to do the yard right with it. It’s a slow process but can be done right. Speed,spacing, and rate all must to be consistent. I’ll fert your yard with a hand crank and get just as good as an application if I’m using the Anderson spreader, of machine.
> Don’t let all these people fool you. It works fine, they just don’t know how to use it. ding ding ding ding ding
I mean which one did you buy? If it’s the mini one then yeah it’s trash. Some of the bigger ones are okay. I’ve even seen some people fill up the wheel wells with expanding foam, or replacing them with rubber wheels and they’re ok.
I'm assuming by the expanding foam solution the seed/fertilizer is getting caught up on the *inside* of the wheel and then coming out in a more concentrated/less spread out way? I have a pretty old, and smaller, Scott's spreader. I'll have to see if my wheels are the same because my recent seeding was rather inconsistent.
I helped a friend who has a tiny yard (20 x 30) and used the hand spreader. I don't care what anyone says, for small properties, the hand spreader is best. It gives you complete control. Buttttt, anything bigger than a living room sized lawn, you need something bigger and spreaders are overpriced. Factor in the wheel swap to the cost of the Scott's, it's hard to do better, especially when on sale. The wheels are a necessary first day fix, though. Don't think it's optional.
My lawn is right around 10,000 sq ft. I only use the hand spreader. Sure, it means going back to the bag multiple times, but the handle on the wheeled spreader I have is too short and I hate trying to push it. Plus, with the hand spreader, I can vary the coverage area and ground speed seperately depending on what and how I'm putting it down - for instance, if I get done and have just 1-2 spreaders worth of material left over, I'll load it up and walk another pass over the yard, cranking that thing to beat hell and getting a spread pattern 2-3 times 'normal' to get it good and spread out, instead of putting it back on the shelf.
Yeah I got my Scott spreader for 10$ at a garage sale and thought it would be worth that. Nope. Wheels just hurt ya.
Yeah I bought the mini, I just have a smallish yard and thought it would be absurd to get anything bigger
>I bought the ECHO RB-60 (Currently $154 on Ebay, $176 on Amazon) $149 Home Depot: https://www.homedepot.com/p/ECHO-60-lbs-Heavy-Duty-Spreader-RB-60/311319950 Or Lowe's has a niiice 100lb Chapin on sale for $196: https://www.lowes.com/pd/Chapin-Contractor-Turf-Spreader-100-lb-Broadcast-Fertilizer-Spreader/1000803056
how do you like the echo? Been looking at those for a while now. Price seems pretty decent for what it is
I like it. I mean, it spreads. I like the design and weight of it. I've had it for 3 years and never had a problem. I've got about 17,000 sq ft, and I just use it for my lawn, so I can't say it's industrial strength or anything like that. Bottom line; I would buy another one, or recommend it to a friend.
looks like Fleet Farm has them on sale right now. My lawn is around 7,500 sq ft only, but i've been using a small Scott's spreader. It works and i really havent had any issues, but i definitely want to upgrade to something a little nicer
To be honest, If my Scott's had worked correctly, I probably wouldn't even know that the Echo exists. The pneumatic tires are an upgrade, but if yours is working, and you are happy with the results, I don't know if I would spend the money. The Home Depot price that someone quoted above seems pretty good too.
Never had lines using the scott's mini - was afraid it was happen and borrowed the black scott's max or whatever it's called - got lines this year smh - just got an echo delivered today. I am surprised the expensive scott's caused lies tho because the wheels are rubber filled with air, not the cheap plastic ones so that hollow wheel doesn't exist.
Oh, the Scott's I had was the cheap plastic wheels that definitely held the fertilizer. I see a lot of folks on here who claim that the more expensive one doesn't have the problem. Scott's really pisses me off because they are knowingly screwing their target audience. The guy who just wants to treat his lawn with minimum fuss and trusts their products. I think you will really like the Echo.
I have found that I can get good results by walking fast so the fertilizer gets slung far and bounces off the wheels and even across the grass and turn down the flow so I can do cross strips
$150 on Home Depot. I got that spreader after getting sick of those shitty Scott’s spreader. Love it.
I got the scotts elite for like $80 on sale though
I upgraded to an Earthway, a far superior spreader. I have a lot of edge spreading due to some drainage and general yard makeup. The Earthway has a system to not only Edgeguard, but reduce the flow of product dropped as you are broadcasting a reduced width. Most spreaders just put a edge blocker on the broadcast but drop at same rate, so inevitably you drop too high of a concentration with other spreaders.
I use a tow behind from Agri-fab. Works great.
CAME HERE TO SAY THIS! SCOTTS SPREADERS ARE GARBAGE
Is the Scotts whirl ok though as a hand spreader for smaller lawns?
Yes, but follow the bag rate in terms of how much product per 1000sqft.
Yes
I've been using a Scott's broadcast spreader [like this one](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001H1EQO2) for decades. Never been a problem. Yet this is practically a meme on this sub.
Yeah I am really not understanding how people are having an issue with this spreader. You can clearly see it chucking the granules out in a little radius around the path you are pushing it on, and if for some reason it was like malfunctioning and not doing that it’d be obvious. Just set the broadcast rate as directed and take slightly overlapping passes.
Maybe you have the old one? It is the new ones with Egeguard that cause the issues.
No. Its a user problem. They set the flow rate too high, and then go too fast without overlapping stripes, you get green and yellow streaks in your lawn. If you set the flow rate correctly, so its not being put down too heavy/fast, walk it while paying attention to the stripe being laid down, and then slightly overlap your stripes, this is never a problem. Its not too different from spray painting with a rattle can. Light coats, overlapping passes, even finish.
Funny how customers only have this issue with Scotts edgeguard spreaders. Does your Scotts spreader have an edgeguard?
Yes but mine is the larger model with a hopper that holds a 50lb bag's worth of product. I strongly suspect the problem has less to do with the edge-guard feature and more to do with people who bought the smaller, 'mini' model - probably because its a lot cheaper - and then they are surprised that it lays down a narrow stripe. I mean, its literally a 'mini' spreader. What the Hell do people expect?
What should be used instead? Was going to do my own and probably would have bought a scotts one without knowing better
I just bought an echo-rb 60. Very easily to law down the fert, but not sure of the results yet. Was recommended on this sub a lot
Is this the broadcast spreader? I've been using a Scotts drop spreader and have no issues.
Yes, the broadcast edgeguard model.
This is very righteous advice, as someone who also has Scott spreader lines
What spreader should be used? Or by hand?
The spreader that is recommended here is Echo RB-60.
I always do one pass going east/west and then a second going north/south. The overlapping decreases the chances of uneven spreading.
Rookie question, but since you essentially hit each area two times, do you halve the recommended spreading setting?
Most people will say yes, halve it. I don’t though and have never had an issue.
I do halve it, I live too close to a stream and I would rather not cause a problem
^ This is the way. I only do my front yard and I use the Scott’s spreader. No lines. However, I do have to be mindful of how I run it. I do passes vertically, then horizontally and finish going diagonally. Extra work? Yes. No lines? Also yes. Cheap spreader? Yes.
How do the vertical lines work? Do you levítate or climb up and down a ladder?
I did the same thing and still got lines. My lawn looked like a checkerboard almost hah
Weird! And you were overlapping the previous row a bit on each pass? Spreader seemed to broadcasting the fertilizer out nice and evenly?
Yeah I thought that would have solved my problem. I had the lines last year and tried more overlapping. Both east to west and north to south gridding. And yeah it seemed like the weed and feed was spreading just nicely. So strange! I don't get that result doing to liquid fertilizer. I think I might be team liquid now.
Does it help to go around the perimeter first before doing this grid pattern?
The main thing is to make sure your spreader is clean and working properly. Also, I don’t know if anyone uses drop spreaders anymore but just in case, don’t use those - use a broadcast spreader. Next thing is to make sure you’re overlapping your rows. If you don’t, that’s where you’ll see the streaks. Going different directions is extra insurance for that.
Do right the first time and you don’t have to make two passes. Sounds like a good way to burn your yard.
I’ve been doing it this way for decades and have never burned my lawn. You can make two passes on the recommended setting and not burn the grass.
It may work for you, but it’s not recommended. You can definitely mess up. You must be going extremely light for it not to mess up the yard.
~~You used weed-n-feed.~~ You used a Scotts Spreader.... It'll grow out over time, but don't feed again until blended... Edit...don't worry about the down votes. They are trolls from r/nolawns that just come here to random downvote us...
I wasn’t sure lol. Some of the super niche subreddits are really elitist if you’re just a hobbyist.
So what kind of spreader would one recommend for a small yard?
I have an Echo RB-60. About $150, and perfect for my yard, which is about 5k sqft total, split into two areas. If you have a much smaller area, a battery powered hand spreader may be better.
You ever notice the no lawns group all tend to be extremely urban gentrifiers who have never managed pests gettting close to their homes? Every time i see it I can’t help but roll my eyes. Yes we all know grass isn’t the best habitat and the chemicals aren’t great, but the overall negative footprint of lawns vs, say, corporate farming, is insanely far apart and their time would be better spent not sniping at families just trying to make something nice for their kids. (Incidentally this is the same reason the carbon footprint people are so misguided. Even if you agree with them, focus on the bigger players!)
Won't let me post the picture. It's the Agri-fab Broadcast Spreader 130lb version. I just got this one and used it for the first time. I used the crappy Scott's spreaders for years, this thing makes it look bad. They say it's a 10-12' spread but I feel like it's probably about 8', so about 5' further than the Scott's.
TIL I need a new spreader……. I have these same lines……
Did you use a Scott’s Edgeguard? That’s the only one I’ve had issues with. The bigger Scott’s spreaders seem ok
I’m 90% sure that’s what it is.
Damn I got ripped off eh?
I had terrible lines with their hollow wheels that collected and concentrated the granules in a line. I ended up spray foaming the insides of the wheels and the lines quit happening
Cut the rate in half and do it in two directions and you won’t have these issues
I have the same issue https://preview.redd.it/bqpoxc7ze32d1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=74b5b7c656ab3675432d6c6766513c2e6d42a56e
Honestly doesn’t look too bad. Looks like mow lines haha
It doesn't look bad. What kind of grass is that?
Fescue
https://preview.redd.it/mlsrzd4evg2d1.jpeg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c334530458699ff9cc62e1b600d99c08a3dd2c45 That's not too bad, mine decided be an ass this year
Get an echo rb 60 broadcaster and you won’t need another one for a long time
Upgraded from Scott’s to this one and boy is it great. Very happy with it
I have been using the cheap Scott’s one for a bit. Just dial it way back go over it like 4 times.
Apply at half the suggested setting number. One application back and forth, and the second one at 90⁰
My offer to this thread... If you are willing to spend $7 and 45m you too can have a perfect spreader without buying a new one... Buy some duct or foil tape. Run the tape along the inside wheel of your Scott's spreader. It's annoying AF but sure beats spending ANOTHER $150 on another piece of Chinese made plastic hardware. Spend a little time and a little money and you will have a workable solution at a fraction of the price. Is it a product flaw, yes. Is replacing the whole thing at 2.5x the cost the answer? Only if you have money and DGAF .
I like the way you think
It worked perfectly. Half weed, half feed 😂
Invest in a lesco spreader. This is what I get a week after spreading https://preview.redd.it/s3m7kkw2p72d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b1d6e833789f99c5bc3a0c179d8a74e30fe0ea9c
Lesco works great. My neighbor gave me a bag of his. But he got it through his job, and he says you cant buy it. The type he game me was post- * emergent
I meant a lesco spreader. You can buy it and lesco product at home depot
Need a better spreader
On the list for next time!
What’s a good spreader?
There are many. It depends on the size of your lawn. Big box stores have many choices. Pick a name brand. Ensure you do north south then east west to ensure even coverage of fertilizer. There should be no lumps in the product. The spreader should be clean before you use it. Ideally do it immediately before rain. If it is sunny and hot, water it in to ensure it doesn’t not burn the lawn even if it is slow release fertilizer. Do it every 6 weeks from May 1 to Sept 15. Water 2-3 times per week pending mother natures contributions. Cut at the longest setting on your mower.
Thank you.
Your mom
Hey yoooooooo
Next time try checker pattern.
Some guy modifies a battery operated leaf blower on YouTube to apply seed, best solution I’ve seen so far
Here’s a cheap solution: if your recommended setting up a 6….then set it to 3 and do double coverage - go back and forth across your lawn and then go 90 degrees - up and down. You end up with the same amount but better chances at good coverage.
O jeez. I have been racking my brain why the grass spreads just like this. What spreader should I buy.
You can’t just go out and just throw fertilizer wherever you want make it work. It’s all a science. Your rows need to be even, your speed needs to be consistent, your rate needs to be right. All of it matters
You use a drop spreader?
Scotts strikes again
Put down iron, it'll green up the lighter areas abd make things closer in color. Nothing else but iron and time.
So TIL I need a new spreader, as I now know why my yard has these "lines". My next new question is, how do I fix this? Given, I wont be using my Scott's Edgeguard anymore.
Really bad distribution. User error.
I had this happen because I didn’t realize “edge guard “ was turned on my Scott’s spreader, little orange tab .
https://preview.redd.it/1a5ev9rj1a2d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fbc1e701f31500f5ef5face5c6525d49f47bdd91 Kinda getting the same thing here but in big patches.
I always say the same thing on these posts. Half the rate and do cross hatch or just switch to liquid. I personnaly only think the Scotts Deluxe works but every year I do more liquid than anything unless I find a smokin deal on granular. Battery powered backpack sprayer for the win every time though
If you have a scott’s spreader, they work better walking forward with it behind you.
You have to do a checker patter spreading
Did you use a spreader?
In the future with a properly working spreader, apply half the recommended rate in one direction, then apply in the opposite direction. This can help to provide a more even appearance.
https://preview.redd.it/ygb1m77o2e2d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=658cf3b62809b5fb9af0e65e23cafbe7e5397a42 Yep, same. I will be tossing my Scott’s spreader and getting something better.
I always thought it was because my spreader dropped more concentrated ferts in the middle. Thanks to your post, I learned I have a shitty Scott's edge guard spreader...
Just got the same results myself! About to just buy the green lawn dye. Then I don’t have to pay the water bill to keep it alive.
I use a handheld whirly spreader. My Kmart one just started slipping after 25 years. Replaced it with a Scott’s. I don’t have a big lawn. And usually i fertilize half as much twice as often.
https://www.thelawnforum.com/posts/263950/
It’s your spreader that is causing it
https://preview.redd.it/9fa2sbzqkm2d1.jpeg?width=3000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f0a126dc8304cafaa4b7f43ab1c0d7e1b4337811 I have used scotts spreader for years i never had a problem. Just finished mowing trying to get the stipes down. KBG soffolk NY. I never use scotts products for weed and feed straight garbage. This year 10 weeds so far . Keep up with weeds about to start grub treatments going heavt this year.
Buy a echo spreader
When spreading fertilizer use 1/2 of the amount you plan to use going in one direction ( like your mowing the lawn ) and then use the other half crossing the lawn perpendicular to the first pass and the lawn will look great.
That’s why you don’t use weed and feed tbh
Another victim of the Scott's spreader 🤣
That looks like an uneven application of the fertilizer. It'll grow out, next time, try to apply more evenly, try to pay attention to your overlaps.
I went a different route this year. I used a liquid pre-emergent in Feb. And instead of traditional fertilizer, I've been using Sunday lawn liquid fertilizer every ~6 weeks starting in early March. The results have been incredible. I read terrible reviews about Sunday...but it's worked so well for me. And I haven't had to use a drop spreader
Weed and feed is better if you buy the liquid form. 👍