Before you can even begin caring for your lawn, you must have the right tools on hand. From lawn mowers to fertilizers, there is a lot of shopping you must do before you install and/or care for your lawn. Fertilization is one of the most crucial tasks you have as a lawn owner, but the way you spread it about can make all the difference.
So how can you choose the best fertilizer spreader? Let's examine what your options are. (Note that a spreader not only disperses fertilizer - it can help you distribute seed, etc, too.)
There are three basic spreaders: broadcast (or rotary), drop, and handheld. Broadcast spreaders are best for large lawns as they spread fertilizer quickly and efficiently. The broadcast spreader has a spinning disc that disperses fertilizer pretty far. However, this can be troublesome if you live in close proximity to your neighbors, as you may accidentally fertilize their lawns (or driveways) too!
If you're looking to spread fertilizer a bit more strategically, consider buying a drop spreader. Drop spreaders simply drop fertilizer in a straight line, which means it's obvious if you miss spots. You will have to be a bit more meticulous about fertilizing your lawn this way.
Finally, there is the handheld fertilizer. It is much like the broadcast fertilizer, except that you can crank it with your hands. The handheld fertilizer, however, is unlike the broadcast fertilizer in that it is perfect for small lawns.
Just remember to adjust the spreader so that it can be of the maximum help to your specific lawn size and species of grass. Read the detailed instructions that come with your spreader and follow them strictly. And just as you would maintain your lawn, maintain your spreader too - wash it after every use and oil its parts routinely. Also, make sure to wear protective gear as you spread the fertilizer.