Seed spreader really necessary for small yard?

Question

My lawn, front and back total comes to less than one acre, say between one half and one third an acre. Do I really need a seed-spreader or would it be just as effective to walk around with the bag while throwing out the seed with my hand?

Thank you!

Answer 1

There are numerous types of spreaders available and cheap. As earlier posted you can get a back spreader for about $20. There is a hand-held front unit even cheaper, however, the swath of spread is very small. There is the conventional drop and cyclone types which cost a bit more but last for years with proper care.
I would suggest that you invest in the cyclone type of spreader. Keep in mind that this is both an investment and a necessary landscape tool. At minimum get a drop spreader. These spreaders are essential. Aside from the usage with seed they are needed to calibrate the dispersal of Weed Killers, Fertilizers, Pest Control, etc. Next time you are in a store look on the back of the bag of any of the above and you will find the settings for various spreaders. The information is crucial to optimize results and can only be had with a spreader!
Both the cyclone and drop are multi-usage tools. Aside from the normal chemical and seed application consider, if you will, the winter applications! Both are great for the spread of de-icing compounds. At the proper setting they will save you money throughout the seasons by application of the exact amount of compound and seed needed.
Maintain your unit by carefully cleaning the entire unit after each use. Make sure you allow the unit enough air and time to dry. A simple solution of Ivory Soap and water, then a rinse will remove most residue. Do not forget to pay attention to the spreaders bottom parts (Wheels and dispersal unit and shafts). In the spring and fall follow the manufacturers guidelines for lube of the gear box unit.
This is kind of a no-brainer. A relatively low cost tool that is multi-purpose, all year valuable, that saves me money, saves me time, and can last for years. Good Luck.

Answer 2

Seed Spreader

Answer 3

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
Seed spreader really necessary for small yard?
My lawn, front and back total comes to less than one acre, say between one half and one third an acre. Do I really need a seed-spreader or would it be just as effective to walk around with the bag while throwing out the seed with my hand?

Thank you!

Answer 4

1/3 or 1/2 acre is still a lot to spread grass seed onto. You will not get even distribution by hand. You could rent a drop or broadcast spreader or buy one for about $25. It would be useful later for fertilizer. I prefer the broadcast spreaders since they cover a large area faster. Drop spreaders are okay as long as you have the dispersing wheel to the inside of the path you are walking. Otherwise, when you turn a corner, the seed will still be dropping and you will overseed the corners.

Answer 5

The problem with throwing by hand is that you don't get good dispersal. I tried it once and when the grass came up, my lawn looked like the Olympic rings. There were circles of grass instead of a nice even spread. You can get over the shoulder spreaders for about $20. They work pretty well.

Answer 6

Hey, if you have your husbands blessing go for it! But just be warned, when you go back to your old seed spreader, you will always be thinking about your neighbors new and exciting one.

Answer 7

You do for equal distribution of the seed and fertilizer. To many seeds in one spot will case over growth and will cause the blades to be thin and week and then will die off this. It make the roots fight to get what little nutrients there are.

Answer 8

if you do walk around make sure you start in one spot walk straight ahead...then scoot over and walk back down...just don't throw it into the wind..or your yard will look uneven and crazy