Vigoro offers homeowners a range of lawn‑care products—like fertilizers, grass seed, ice melt, and weed control—paired with matrix-matched spreaders, such as:
- Broadcast spreaders (20016, 20021, 20024)
- Walk‑behind broadcast (22105/22106)
- Drop spreaders (22103, 22104)
- Handheld spreaders (20129)
Each product label includes recommended settings for these models. However, there’s value in supplementing that with calibration, understanding material flow, and solving common issues—so this guide compiles everything you need.
1. How Vigoro Spreader Settings Work
Most Vigoro spreaders feature a numbered dial (typically 2–11) that adjusts how much product dispenses. Higher numbers = a larger gate opening and heavier application; lower numbers = the opposite.
These settings should align with the lawn-care product you’re using and your spreader type. The packaging usually lists one setting—for example: “Broadcast spreader set to 6; Drop spreader set to 3.” Variances in walking speed, terrain, and product condition mean adjustments might be necessary.
A basic calibration process involves:
- Calculating required coverage (lbs per 1,000 ft²).
- Setting the dial to the matched number on your package’s chart.
- Walking at a consistent pace (approx. 2.5 mph).
- Overlapping rows by about 10–15%.
- Inspecting results and fine‑tuning the setting if needed.
2. Vigoro Product Charts
Below are recommended settings for common Vigoro products, organized by product type and spreader model. Always cross‑check with the individual container’s instructions—these are based on typical formats.
| Product | Rate (lb/1000 ft²) | Broadcast (20021) | Walk‑Behind (22105) | Drop (22103) | Handheld (20129) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vigoro Lawn Food – All‑Season | 1.0 | 6 | 6.5 | 3 | 1.5 |
| Vigoro Starter Fertilizer | 1.0 | 5 | 5.5 | 2 | 1 |
| Vigoro Grass Seed Mix | 4.0 | 7 | 7.5 | Multiple passes | N/A |
| Vigoro Overseed Mix | 5.0 | 8 | 8.5 | Multiple passes | N/A |
| Vigoro WinterGuard Fall Food | 1.0 | 6 | 6.5 | 3 | 1.5 |
| Vigoro Spring Fertilizer | 1.0 | 6 | 6.5 | 3 | 1.5 |
| Vigoro Rock Salt (Ice Melt) | 2.0 | 9 | 9.5 | N/A | N/A |
| Vigoro Lime (Coarse) | 4.0 | 10 | 10.5 | N/A | N/A |
Note: Drop spreaders usually have about half the setting value of broadcast units.
3. Calibration & Application Guide
A. Prepare the Lawn and Equipment
- Mow and remove debris beforehand.
- Fill hopper only about ¾ full to keep weight manageable.
- Shake fertilizer containers to de-clump before filling.
B. Dial and Educate Yourself
- Set dial according to chart or package.
- Walk steady (~2.5 mph); consider a speed‑tracking app.
- Overlap passes slightly (10–15%) for even coverage.
C. Initial Test Run
- Perform a trial pass on driveway or sidewalk.
- Check material thickness, backtrack if needed.
- If heavy: reduce setting 1–2 increments; if sparse: increase setting slightly.
D. Environmental Considerations
- Avoid windy days to reduce drift and uneven spread.
- Moisture affects flow; ensure dry conditions or use flow‑enhancing additives.
- In cold, heavy materials (lime/rock salt) may clump—rinse and dry gate between uses.
E. Cross‑Pattern for Uniform Coverage
- Apply north-south first, then east-west to eliminate striping.
4. Common Troubleshooting
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Skipped zones or thin lines | Too low dial or slips in walking pace | Increase dial or slow pace |
| Heavy visible stripes | Too high dial or inconsistent overlap | Decrease dial or more overlap |
| Granules clump or clogging | Moisture or gate gunk | Clean and dry gate; use flow additive |
| Gate won’t open/close | Debris under gate or damaged spring | Lift gate, clear debris, inspect spring |
| Hand fatigue with handheld | Too much weight | Refill in smaller batches |
| Wheels sticking/rust | Water exposure or lack of lubrication | Dry and oil wheel axles annually |
5. Maintenance Guide
- Empty hopper and rinse after use (no detergent).
- Dry and lubricate moving parts, wheels, and gate assembly.
- Tighten gate screws to minimize wobble.
- Inspect wheels and axles yearly—grease if required.
- Store indoors or under cover to prevent rust.
🌱 Overview: Vigoro vs Scotts Spreaders
| Feature | Vigoro Spreaders | Scotts Spreaders |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Home Depot (house brand) | Scotts Company (Miracle-Gro parent) |
| Common Models | 20016, 20021, 22105, 22106, 22103 | EdgeGuard Mini, EdgeGuard DLX, Elite, Hand-Held |
| Number Dial Range | 2 – 12 (typically) | 1 – 15 or A – Z depending on model |
| Hopper Size | Smaller to mid-range | Small to large (DLX has larger capacity) |
| Gate Mechanism | Basic manual dial | Precision rotary dial with auto-shut |
| Calibration Accuracy | Good but less refined | Higher precision (especially EdgeGuard) |
| Ease of Use | Simple, straightforward | More ergonomic, especially Elite model |
🎯 Key Differences in Settings
Both brands assign numbers to control gate opening (material flow), but a setting of “5” on Vigoro does NOT equal “5” on Scotts.
Here’s a rough conversion chart based on common products:
| Application Type | Scotts Setting (EdgeGuard DLX) | Vigoro Setting (Broadcast 20021) |
|---|---|---|
| Fertilizer (Standard) | 3.5 – 4.0 | 6 – 6.5 |
| Starter Fertilizer | 3.0 | 5.0 |
| Lawn Seed (Dense) | 8 – 10 | 8 – 9 |
| Overseeding | 5 – 7 | 7 – 8 |
| Lime (Pelletized) | 9 – 12 | 10 – 11 |
| Ice Melt/Rock Salt | 10 – 12 | 9 – 10.5 |
🔧 Example: Same Product, Different Settings
If you buy Scotts Turf Builder Fertilizer, the label will say:
- Scotts EdgeGuard Mini: Setting 3.25
- Scotts Drop Spreader: Setting 6.5
- No setting for Vigoro spreaders
To use it in a Vigoro 20021 Broadcast:
- Start at setting 6, test coverage on a 1000 sq ft area, and adjust ±1 if needed.
🧪 Calibration Tip: Match Output per 1000 sq ft
If you’re applying a fertilizer that recommends 3 lbs per 1,000 sq ft:
- Set your Vigoro or Scotts spreader to its recommended number.
- Walk a measured 1,000 sq ft area.
- Catch the leftover or measure what was dispensed.
- Adjust up/down by ½ increment to fine-tune delivery.
6. FAQs
Q1: Why are the spreader settings different between Vigoro and Scotts?
A: Each brand calibrates based on hopper shape, gate height, and wheel-to-gate speed. Always follow the label on your product and the matching spreader guide.
Q2: Can I use fertilizer in a drop spreader?
A: Yes, drop spreaders offer precision. Simply walk steadily and make multiple passes with overlap to match coverage rates.
Q3: My hand-held clogs with lime or salt. What can I do?
A: Use a fine wire brush to clean the gate, add a small anti-clumping additive, or switch to a walk-behind spreader for heavy granules.
Q4: What if I missed a yard strip?
A: Cross-pattern (perpendicular second pass) ensures coverage, especially for grass seed or pre-emergent herbicides.
Q5: Do I need to recalibrate each season?
A: Yes—materials vary by batch and moisture changes. Always test before full application.
Q6: How can I measure walking speed?
A: Use a simple stopwatch and known distance or GPS‑based phone walking apps.
Q7: Are settings the same for spring and fall applications?
A: No. Products differ in granule size and density; always follow label settings specific to the product being applied.
Q8: Can I store the hopper open?
A: Ideally, rinse and close the gate to prevent contamination and moisture buildup.
Q9: Why do fertilizers expire?
A: Over time, additives lose efficacy, and moisture can clump granules—older fertilizer may need higher settings and won’t work as well.
Q10: Can I use Vigoro spreaders for sand or ice melt?
A: Yes, especially walk‑behind models. Just clean thoroughly afterward to prevent corrosion.
7. Pro Tips from Pros
- Mini‑Calibration Check – Catch a 1‑gal coffee can of product and weigh it to determine actual pounds per square foot.
- Journal It – Note date, product, rate, weather, and any adjustments for future reference.
- Cleaning Hack – Use a nylon clothesline brush to clean the gate quickly.
- Sunlight Stripes – Mow immediately after applying fertilizer to reduce visible stripes in sunlit grass.
- Protect Your Back – Use shoulder straps or spread lighter amounts into a bag, refilling frequently.
8. Safety & Environmental Considerations
- Keep pets and children off treated lawns until dry or per label directions.
- Don’t overload chemical products near waterways—prevent runoff.
- Wear gloves and a dust mask when handling powdered lime or salt.
- Seal leftover products in original, sealed containers for shelf stability.
9. Annual Maintenance Checklist
- Rinse and empty hopper after final use
- Dry and grease wheels and axles
- Clean and inspect gate/seals
- Tighten any screws or hardware
- Check dials are still precise
- Store indoors or protect from moisture
- Schedule calibration test for spring
10. Final Thoughts
With the right settings, solid calibration, and diligent equipment care, your Vigoro spreader can help you cultivate a lush, even lawn while saving product and money.
By mixing and matching the chart, troubleshooting guide, pro tips, and FAQs, you’re equipped to handle both routine applications and edge-case challenges—whether laying seed, feeding grass, or melting ice.
I’m David man behind Lawn Mowerly; I’ve been dealing with lawnmowers and Tractors with my father since I was a kid. I know every make and model and what each one is capable of and love helping people find the perfect equipment for their needs.