When it comes to spreader settings, lawn or garden owners automatically get worried because it can often be confusing. On top of that, if you are trying to choose between Vigoro and Scott, things can get a little tense as both of them are popular.
However, Scott has a reputation for having slightly complex settings, while Vigoro is easier to deal with. At the same time, Vigoro spreader settings may not give you the same precise result as Scott. Yet, most people, especially beginners, prefer it over Scotts.
And if all these talks are confusing you and preventing you from making a decision, let’s compare Vigoro spreader settings vs Scotts first.
Understanding Different Spreader Settings
The first thing you need to know before doing anything is that all spreaders are different. That means the same setting might not work for all spreaders.
On top of that, the type of material you are putting in the hopper and the material’s size are also important factors. However, you can do some calculations to know how the settings work and what settings work best for your lawn or garden.
Generally, there are two types of spreaders: broadcast or rotary and drop spreaders. So in the following part, I have shared two charts to show the settings for each type of spreader and settings per 1000 sq. ft. You and I will do the rest of the calculation later.
Broadcast/Rotary Spreader Setting Chart
| Spreader Range | 3 lbs. /1000 sq. ft. | 4 lbs. /1000 sq. ft. | 5 lbs. /1000 sq. ft. |
| 1-10 | 2 ½ | 3 ½ | 4 |
| 1-18 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
| 1-24 | 14 | 16 | 18 |
| 1-40 | 25 | 30 | 33 |
Note:
The above-mentioned chart works best for Vigoro spreaders. But you should also check with the product instructions.
Drop Spreader Setting Chart
| Spreader Range | 3 lbs. /1000 sq. ft. | 4 lbs. /1000 sq. ft. | 5 lbs. /1000 sq. ft. |
| 1-12 | 2 | 3 ½ | 4 ½ |
| 1-20 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
| 1-30 | 13 | 15 | 17 |
Vigoro Spreader Settings Vs Scotts
As I mentioned before, depending on what material you are using, the settings will vary. In most cases, the product comes with setting instructions. But the charts above will help you understand the closest settings of both spreaders you need for different amounts of products per 1000 sq. ft.
Let’s give you an example! When testing various grass seeds and fertilizers, I noticed that there is a slight difference based on which spreader I’m using.
For example, if I am spreading something with the setting 3 in a Scotts spreader, for Vigoro, it is often 4. And, if it is a broadcast spreader and I’m spreading 3 lbs. of material per 1000 sq. ft., I keep the setting on 2 ½, it is likely to be 2 on a drop spreader.
But I cannot say that the same setting will work every time. Depending on several factors, it will be more or less. So, to know if you are using the right setting, it is always best to calibrate the spreader.
How To Calibrate Your Spreader: Step-By-Step
Talking about calibrating the spreader, there are a few steps you can follow to ensure you are using the right spreader setting. And this goes for both Scotts and Vigoro spreaders.
Step 1: Read The Instruction
The pack of fertilizer or seeds always comes with an estimated spreading rate. However, they do not have the rate mentioned for all types of spreaders. So your job is to be sure to use the right spreader setting.
Take the total area the entire package is meant to cover. Then divide 100 by the total square foot of the lawn or garden area. Multiply the weight of the package with the result you got.
Step 2: Set Spreader’s Rate
Close the flow lever and then set the spreader’s rate based on the recommended rate on the package. Remember that the higher the spread rate you choose, the bigger hole will the hopper have. And that will spread more materials.
Step 3: Measure An Area
For calibrating the spreader, you need to choose a smaller area. It is best not to try it on the lawn in case you overspread the material and end up killing the portion.
You can just choose your driveway or any other place. I would suggest measuring a 10 ft. x 10 ft. or 100 sq. ft. area and marking it. But also make sure the area is clean.
Step 4: Fill The Hopper With The Product
First, make sure the flow lever is turned off. Then fill the hopper with at least 3 lbs of the product. It is necessary to fill the hopper with this amount to get setting accuracy. Once you have done that, place the spreader’s front at the starting point of the area you marked for testing.
Step 5: Start Applying The Product
Open the flow lever and start spreading the material on the chosen area by pushing and walking. Try to maintain a slow and steady walking style so that you can spread the fertilizer evenly.
Every time you take a turn, close the flow lever and open it again when you start another side. It is the best way to prevent wasting any material.
Step 6: Check The Hopper
Try to keep an eye on the hopper as you walk on spreading the material. If the hopper emptied out as you finished covering the 100 sq. ft. area, you have chosen the right setting. On the other hand, if the hopper had gone empty before that, you need to turn the setting slightly lower.
Step 7: Write Down The Settings
Once you get the desired spreader setting, write down all the details. It can help you remember the settings whenever you do it. Make sure to sweep off the area you tested the spreader on and gather the fertilizer or seeds.
Final Words
Seeing someone going around on the lawn with a spreader seems like an enjoyable task. Well, it is, unless you don’t know the right settings for either your Vigoro or Scotts spreaders.
To save you from the trouble, I have done my research and testing to find out all about Vigoro spreader settings vs Scotts.
You are welcome!
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