Best Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader

Last updated: 03/26/21

For those that own a large property, doing things manually can be extremely hectic.

If you think broadcast spreaders are expensive due to the cost of materials, you should also consider how much you’ll save in labor. A broadcast spreader distributes the fertilizer evenly and more quickly than manual methods such as tossing seed by hand.

Today we’re helping you with the Best Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader.

Best Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader

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ImageProductFeaturesPrice
GREEN THUMB
Agri-Fab 45-0463 130-Pound Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader
Agri-Fab 45-0463 130-Pound Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader
  • 130 lb
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SOLD OPTION
Brinly BS36BH, 175 lb, Black Tow-Behind Broadcast Spreader
Brinly BS36BH, 175 lb, Black Tow-Behind Broadcast Spreader
  • 175 lb
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BEST CHOICE
Chapin International 8620B 150 lb Tow Behind Spreader
Chapin International 8620B 150 lb Tow Behind Spreader
  • 150 lb
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TRUSTED BRAND
Agri-Fab 45-0288 175-Pound Max Tow Behind Drop Spreader
Agri-Fab 45-0288 175-Pound Max Tow Behind Drop Spreader
  • 175 lb
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MAX OPTIONS
Buyers Products ATVS100 ATV All-Purpose Broadcast Spreader
Buyers Products ATVS100 ATV All-Purpose Broadcast Spreader
  • 100 lb
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5 Best Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader

Here’s a list of the best five tow-behind broadcast spreaders that you can opt for.

GREEN THUMB
1 | Agri-Fab 45-0463 130-Pound Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader

1 | Agri-Fab 45-0463 130-Pound Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader

  • Capacity: 130 lb
  • Hopper Cover Incl: Optional

Our first option for tow behind spreaders is this industry-leading option from Agri-Fab. This option provides a hopper capacity of 130 lb (58.97 kg). This ensures that you don’t have to waste time making multiple refills.

With one refill, you can cover a large area and achieve more.

Another thing that makes this option desirable is the stability that it offers. With this option, you enjoy tires with a wide diameter.

This ensures that regardless of the terrain, you can navigate easily and enjoy the best experience. The spreading is also effective thanks to its enclosed gearbox that enjoys tapered gears.

This option also supports efficient maneuverability. This is thanks to its on-off control that provides precise settings.

This control is linked to a durable rod that ensures you don’t have to worry about constant repairs due to use. You get an option that will provide full value for your money.

You can decide to opt for an optional cover for the hopper for your tow behind spreaders. This is the same as the hopper grate and material deflector.

You’ll need some assembly to enjoy this option. However, you’ll enjoy clear instructions that ensure you can do this easily and without stress.

You enjoy a universal hitch that allows convenient attachment to the vehicle. 

PROS

  • Comes with a spread width between 10 and 12 feet (3.66 m)
  • This pull behind spreader comes with a universal hitch  to hook to your lawn mowers
  • It comes with a control that’s accessible from your tractor seat
  • It provides stability irrespective of the terrain

CONS

  • Customers have complained about its spread ability 
  • It’s not exactly the most affordable option

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: Agri-Fab 45-0463 130-Pound Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader


GREEN THUMB
2 | Brinly BS36BH, 175 lb, Black Tow-Behind Broadcast Spreader

2 | Brinly BS36BH, 175 lb, Black Tow-Behind Broadcast Spreader

  • Capacity: 175lb
  • Hopper Cover Incl: Yes

Our next pick is this awesome pull behind broadcast spreader from Brinly. One thing that sets this option apart is the high capacity that it offers.

With its hopper supporting 175 lb (ca. 79 kg), you don’t need to worry about multiple refills to cover a large area. You save time and get things done in record time, whether you’re looking to spread seed or fertilizers.

This option comes with a dent and rust-proof hopper that ensures you enjoy a long-lasting experience.

Contact with corrosive fertilizers doesn’t spell doom for this amazing option. All parts of this outstanding device remain fitted to last.

For instance, you have glass-filled nylon gears enclosed with a nylon gear box to ensure you enjoy increased protection.

This option also comes with a spreader plate that controls the pattern that delivers results. This patented control system delivers professional results regardless of the material you need to spread.

This tow behind drop spreader has a directional spread pattern control ensures you can even out and center the distribution pattern to enjoy the best results.

These gets better by its calibration control that’s easily accessible. This ensures you can get your job done efficiently and accurately.

PROS

  • It comes with a universal hook-up that allows easy attachment to your tractor or lawn mowers
  • It comes with a spread width reaching as much as 12 feet (3.66 m)
  • It comes with a hopper cover design that keeps dust and moisture away from necessary areas 
  • It provides considerable capacity

CONS

  • It’s not exactly the most affordable option
  • Customers have complained that it wastes fertilizers

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: Brinly BS36BH, 175 lb, Black Tow-Behind Broadcast Spreader


BEST CHOICE
3 | Chapin International 8620B 150 lb Tow Behind Spreader

3 | Chapin International 8620B 150 lb Tow Behind Spreader

  • Capacity: 150lb
  • Hopper Cover Incl: No

The next pick is this top-notch option from Chaplin International. Designed here in the USA, this option has undergone the necessary quality control measure to ensure that you get the best experience.

This drop spreader begins with its hopper capacity of 150 lb (ca. 68 kg) that ensures you don’t have to worry about multiple refills during a spread activity. It can hold sufficient material to cover a dual area without a refill.

This option comes with a bronze bearing that has been oil impregnated. This is to ensure that there’s less friction on the gearbox and axle.

You can be sure to enjoy a functional and effective broadcast spreader for as long as you do use it. 

You’ll also have to worry less about wasting your fertilizer or insect control when you opt for this tow-behind fertilizer spreader. This is thanks to its auto-stop dual impeller.

This feature ensures that once your broadcast spreader isn’t in motion, it stops spreading the material in the hopper. So, you’d be saving money and resources in the long run with this type of spreaders.

This tow-behind spreader also comes with adjustable settings for rates of spread to ensure that you can enjoy the accurate application. You enjoy a whopping 11 incremental settings that ensure you can always get the best results depending on your rough terrain and what you want to achieve.

You don’t even need to worry about complexities regarding these adjustment settings, as you can easily get it done with this rotary spreader. 

PROS

  • This pull behind fertilizer comes with wide pneumatic tires that ensure easy accessibility
  • It comes with a heavy-duty use trailer hitch to hook to your lawn mowers
  • It’s a durable option that guarantees a long-lasting experience for larger lawns
  • This tow-behind spreader provides adequate hopper capacity for your piece of property

CONS

  • It’s not exactly the cheapest option, but still an excellent choice
  • Consumers have complained about having issues with the metal gear box

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: Chapin International 8620B 150 lb Tow Behind Spreader


TRUSTED BRAND
4 | Agri-Fab 45-0288 175-Pound Max Tow Behind Drop Spreader

4 | Agri-Fab 45-0288 175-Pound Max Tow Behind Drop Spreader

  • Capacity: 175lb
  • Hopper Cover Incl: No

The next tow-behind spreader option on the list is this extra-large broadcast spreader from Agri-Fab. It can hold a whopping 175 lb (ca. 79 kg) of material in its hopper.

This ensures that there’s no need to consider refilling the hopper when working in larger properties. You can cover as much as 1 acre of land with this option on one go.

You will save yourself time and energy that you would have wasted needing to refill your lawn spreader. 

You also enjoy durability with this lawn tractor spreader. This is thanks to its rust-proof poly hopper.

This significantly increases your device’s product life and ensures that you can get value for money when you choose this option.

The galvanized steel agitator that ensures that this device’s durability is assured. These heavy-duty steel gears will last longer than most lawn spreaders.

You also don’t need to worry about effective spreading as this option provides it. You get a spread width of 42-inches.

You get a machine with pneumatic tires that ensures you don’t have anything to worry about when it comes to smooth transportation across rough terrain.

You also get to enjoy video instructions that allow you to assemble this appropriately. 

PROS

  • This tow-behind fertilizer spreader comes with a 3-year limited consumer warranty 
  • It comes with a universal hitch that ensures you can easily connect it to your tractor or trailer 
  • It comes with detailed video instructions on how to assemble it
  • This tow-behind fertilizer spreader provides a precise performance

CONS

  • Consumers have complained that it’s hard to assemble this tow-behind fertilizer spreader
  • Consumers have complained that this option rusts after short use

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: Agri-Fab 45-0288 175-Pound Max Tow Behind Drop Spreader


MAX OPTIONS
5 | Buyers Products ATVS100 ATV All-Purpose Broadcast Spreader

5 | Buyers Products ATVS100 ATV All-Purpose Broadcast Spreader

  • Capacity: 100lb
  • Hopper Cover Incl: Yes

The final option on the list of tow behind spreaders is this great option from Buyer’s Product. This option comes with a limited 100 lb (ca. 45 kg) hopper.

However, if your land isn’t too large, it’s an option that’ll deliver for you.

This option is a budget option that ensures you don’t have to break the bank to get access to a broadcast spreader. 

This option is also ideal for a wide range of activities, including hunting, farming, grounds maintenance, and landscaping.

Regardless of the user in question, you can be sure you are getting a functional product that will deliver. This option also comes with a 12V motor that’s mounted inside your hopper. This ensures that your device can remain protected even when in use.

Another great thing about this option is that you can count on its durability. This is further made possible by the rain cover that comes with it. This ensures that your broadcast spreader can remain protected from the elements that might lead to its damage. 

You don’t need to worry about difficulty during assembly of this product.

When you opt for this option, you get access to a device that’s easy to assemble. You also enjoy great coverage that makes this machine a great choice overall out of all the fertilizer spreaders. 

PROS

  • Affordable than most drop spreaders
  • It’s easier to assemble than other pull behind spreaders
  • It’s a long-lasting option that provides wide coverage compared to other types of spreaders
  • It comes with a rain cover that protects the machine

CONS

  • Consumers have complained that this option isn’t suitable for spreading salt
  • Consumers have also complained that it’s not suitable for handling oats

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: Buyers Products ATVS100 ATV All-Purpose Broadcast Spreader


All You Need to Know About Buying a Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader

If you’re looking to get a tow behind broadcast spreader, there are some things that you’ll need to know.

Beyond the five best options we have listed, this will help you make the best choice without fail. So, here’s all the things that you need to keep in mind for drop spreaders.

What Is a Tow Behind Spreader?

If you’re looking to get the best tow behind spreader, then you must already know what it is and what it does. Still, you need to understand the scope of its relevance if you’re serious about getting the best option.

This is a type of spreader that allows you to spread pelletized fertilizer over a large area. In this case, you’ll place this spreader at the back of a mower, tractor, or ATV and pull it using any of these vehicles.

This option ensures that you can get to the job of fertilizing an area faster than ever.

However, fertilizers are not the limits of this equipment. It is also popularly applied to spread insect control, weed control, and grass seed, among others.

You can use it to transport things like compost mulch, weeds, and grass clippings across the area in some cases. You’ll just close the bottom hopper to avoid spreading it on the field.

tow behind broadcast best review

Also, you can use this equipment regardless of the time. So, there’s no limitation to the period of its relevance.

Whether during spring or summer, this machine remains relevant to gardeners with a large area.

Should I Go for a Push Spreader or a Tow Behind Spreader 

One of the things you’ll need to decide is whether you should be going for a tow behind broadcast spreader or a push spreader. This is because they both perform the same functions only in different ways.

So, here’s what you need to consider when choosing one.

Generally, the determining factor when choosing either of both options is the size of your property. As you can tell, the two behind spreader is suitable for large properties. On the other hand, the push broadcast is the smaller than the drop spreaders.

So, if you’ve got less than half an acre of land, then your best bet would be to opt for a push broadcast spreader.

On the other hand, if you’ve got a larger area or a challenging terrain, your best bet would be to go for tow behind broadcast spreader. 

What Vehicles Can I Use to Tow My Broadcast Spreader?

If you’re getting a broadcast spreader, one thing that you’ll have on your mind is how to tow your broadcast spreader. Well, usually, you’ll need a vehicle to tow your spreader.

However, the good news is that there’s a wide variety of vehicles that you can tow your spreader with.

This will depend on the type of hitch that your spreader comes with. The available options that you can choose from include:

Universal Hitch Spreader

This option comes with a universal hitch. In turn, when you opt for this option, you can tow the spreader with an unlimited number of vehicles.

Depending on your preference, you can decide to use a lawn tractor, a garden tractor, a lawnmower, a utility terrain vehicle, and even an ATV. 

This option is generally the most preferred as it gives you a wide range of options that you can use. So, it’s usually advisable that you opt for this option.

Lawn Tractor Spreader

The next option is the one that comes with a hook instead of a hitch. It does not provide universal compatibility. Instead, it’s usually compatible with lawn tractors and most riding mowers.

In some cases, you might get a model that you can attach to riding mowers. However, you can’t attach this option to UTV and ATV, just lawn tractors.

ATV

The final option is those that you can attach to ATVs. Also called the ATV mounted spreader, this option doesn’t come with wheels.

However, you can mount them directly on the utility rack of your vehicle. The advantage of this option is that you enjoy easy and quick control.

Remember that they are limited. You cannot use them with other types of vehicles apart from ATVs.

Factors to Consider When Getting a Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader 

If you’re looking to get a tow behind broadcast spreader, then you’ll need to put some things into consideration. This is to ensure that you can get the best option.

Now, knowing these things can be a handful. So, here’s a list of things that you’ll need to keep in mind.

Size of Your Property

You’ll need to consider the size of your property. This is because it will go a long way in determining the appropriate weight capacity of your tow behind broadcast spreader.

While there’s no specific value, here’s an estimate of the hopper capacity you’ll need relative to your lawn size.

  • You’ll need a hopper capacity of 100 pounds (45.36 kg) for a property size between half and one acre
  • You’ll need a hopper capacity of 125 pounds (56.7 kg) for a property size between one and one and a half acre
  • You’ll need a hopper capacity of 150 pounds (68.04 kg) for a property size that’s over one and a half acre
best tow behind broadcast full review

The Material of the Hopper

The next thing you want to consider is the material of the hopper. This is because it will determine the durability that you get to enjoy from the machine you purchase.

Generally, these spreaders can either be metal or polyethylene hoppers.

The former is quite durable. However, you’ll need to engage in more maintenance activities. This is because it’s more susceptible to corrosion and rust.

On the other hand, you’ll get a light and durable option that can resist wind and rain with the latter. However, it’s not suitable for long-duration under the sun as it can get brittle. 

So, you’ll need to determine what option you want to opt for and the consequences of your decision.

Controls 

You’ll need to consider accessibility to control when choosing an option. Usually, some options will require you to turn before you can access the control lever.

On the other hand, there are some that you can access from the comfort of the mower driver’s seat. Generally, it would be best to go for that which you can access from your driver’s seat.

Adjustable Flow

The next thing that you want to look out for is the adjustable flow of the spreader. This is extremely important if you want to be able to maximize this option for multiple applications.  

Usually, some options ensure that you can adjust the swath and the swath and the flow rate while others do not.

It would be best to opt for an option that comes with adjustable settings to enjoy more functionality. This way, depending on your use, you can adjust your spreader’s swath and flow rate, getting the best results.

Hopper Cover

Generally, hopper cover isn’t a common or standard feature of most hoppers. While some spreaders come with it, others don’t. However, getting a hopper that comes with a cover comes with a significant advantage. 

Precisely, a hopper cover allows you to cover your spreader and prevents its direct exposure to weather elements.

It ensures that you can protect your spreader and increase its lifespan in the long run.

Tires 

The next thing you’ll want to consider is the tire that comes with your spreader. This is very important because this will ensure you can navigate through the area easily.

Usually, you’ll need to pay attention to the size of the tires. You’ll need large tires as they bring more stability to your experience.

However, you won’t really need to worry about this. Most landscaping tools come with large wheels of at least 10 inches.

What you’ll need to pay attention to is the type of tire that you get. 

You can opt for no-flat tires, which require less maintenance. Alternatively, you can opt for the pneumatic tire.

Pneumatic tires requires more maintenance, you enjoy easy maneuver and increased stability regardless of the terrain you find yourself in.

How Difficult Is Maintaining My Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader 

Generally, you won’t need to worry too much about maintenance when it comes to your broadcast spreader. This is because this equipment is a low maintenance tool.

All you’ll need to do is ensure that you wash it. 

Afterward, you’ll also need to oil the moving parts. This is to ensure that you can reduce friction, leading to wear and tear of the equipment.

You will need to repaint the parts of the device that’s made from metal. This is to ensure that you can reduce the occurrence of corrosion and rust in your equipment. 

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Final Thoughts 

Getting a tow behind broadcast spreader is always a great addition to your landscaping tools. In fact, it’s inevitable if you find yourself with a large area that you have to maintain.

However, it’s not enough to get this device. You’ll also need to ensure that you’re getting the best option.

This is why we have taken our time to tell you what you need to consider when getting one and the best options available in the market.

Still, if you’re to end up with an option, the Agri-Fab 45-0463 130-Pound Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader will be the pick.

This is thanks to the standard capacity that this option provides at 130 lb. You can cover a large area without a refill.

You get a tire with a wide diameter that provides increased stability and efficient maneuverability. The spreading is also effective thanks to its enclosed gearbox that enjoys tapered gears.

Also, with this option, you enjoy a universal hitch that allows convenient attachment to the vehicle. You also don’t need to worry about stress when assembling this option.

This is thanks to the clear video instruction that provides clarity to your tasks. So, get straight to making a choice and enjoy ease.

Green Thumb Gardener
tow behind garden product
Jeremy Starke

We at Green Thumb Gardener provide tips and guides for both for beginners and advanced gardeners out there. 

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