When it comes to lawn care, using the correct spreader settings can make the difference between a lush, evenly fed yard and one plagued by streaks, burns, or patchy growth. Sta-Green spreaders, sold at Lowe’s and other retailers, are popular for applying fertilizers, grass seed, lime, and even ice melt. But to use them effectively, you need to understand how to set them up properly, compare them with other spreaders, and follow best practices for calibration.
This guide provides detailed Sta-Green spreader settings charts, comparisons with other brands, and tips to ensure accuracy, helping you get the best results from your lawn care routine.
Why Spreader Settings Matter
Incorrect settings can waste product, damage your lawn, or leave uneven coverage. Too high a setting leads to over-application, risking fertilizer burn, while too low a setting wastes time and leaves thin growth. Sta-Green spreaders are designed with numbered dials or levers that regulate the flow of material through the hopper, but the correct number depends on the product being applied.
Sta-Green Spreader Settings Chart
Here are general recommendations for Sta-Green spreaders based on product type. Always cross-check with the product bag, as manufacturers often list specific Sta-Green settings.
| Material Type | Sta-Green Setting | Application Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lawn Fertilizer (Granular) | 4 – 5 | Apply evenly; overlap slightly for uniform coverage |
| Weed & Feed | 4 – 5 | Use on damp lawn for best weed control |
| Crabgrass Preventer | 4 | Apply early spring; water in lightly |
| Lime (Pelletized) | 5 – 6 | Heavier material, requires slightly higher setting |
| Grass Seed (Fine) | 3 | Lighter material, reduce to avoid waste |
| Grass Seed (Coarse) | 4 | Adjust for larger seed varieties |
| Ice Melt (Rock Salt) | 6 – 7 | Wider opening to prevent clogging |
Comparison: Sta-Green vs Other Spreaders
| Feature / Brand | Sta-Green | Scotts | Earthway | Lesco |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Affordability | Budget-friendly | Moderate to high | Mid-range | Higher-end |
| Availability | Lowe’s & online | Widely available | Garden stores | Professional supply |
| Durability | Good for home use | Good | Strong | Heavy-duty |
| Settings Simplicity | Simple numbered dial | Product-specific | Calibrated chart | Precise but complex |
| Best For | Homeowners | Homeowners | Hobbyists & pros | Lawn care professionals |
Takeaway: Sta-Green spreaders are ideal for homeowners who want affordable, simple, and reliable performance without needing the precision of commercial equipment like Lesco.
Sta-Green Spreader Models & Specifications
1. Sta-Green Small Broadcast Spreader (Model 71062)
- Capacity: Covers up to 5,000 sq ft of product.
- Features:
- Pre-calibrated, ready for immediate use.
- Curved hopper with a dual-bladed agitator for smooth and consistent delivery.
- Fold-down handle for compact storage.
Lowe’s
2. Sta-Green 32-lb Precision Broadcast Spreader (Model 75260)
- Hopper Capacity: Holds up to 32 lbs of material.
- Coverage: Approximately 10,000 sq ft per load.
- Maximum Spread Width: Around 5 ft.
- Wheels: 9-inch diameter.
- Construction:
- Plastic hopper with limited assembly required (fully assembled).
- Dual-bladed agitator and optimized funnel design for uniform flow.
- Compact design featuring a fold-down handle.
- Additional Notes:
- It is exclusive to Lowe’s.
- Pneumatic tires are not included.
- Comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
3. Sta-Green 8-lb Handheld Spreader (Model 71061)
- Compact and designed for small areas.
- Ideal uses: Fertilizer, seed, salt, or ice melt in tight spaces.
- Fully assembled and ready to use out-of-the-box.
Quick Comparison Table
| Model / Type | Capacity | Coverage | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Broadcast Spreader (71062) | – | ~5,000 sq ft | Fold-down handle, dual agitator, compact |
| 32-lb Precision Broadcast (75260) | 32 lb | ~10,000 sq ft | Large hopper, 9″ wheels, lifetime warranty |
| Handheld Spreader (71061) | ~8 lb | – | Lightweight, spot use, fully assembled |
Tips for Using Sta-Green Spreaders Effectively
- Calibrate Before Each Season
Fill the hopper halfway, select a recommended setting, and test on a paved area. Measure how much material dispenses over a known distance. Adjust accordingly. - Walk at a Consistent Pace
Around 3 mph (a brisk walk) is recommended. Walking too fast or too slow changes the application rate. - Overlap Slightly
Each pass should overlap by 6–12 inches to avoid missed strips and ensure even distribution. - Don’t Start or Stop While Open
Always close the gate before stopping or turning, otherwise excess product will dump in one spot. - Clean After Every Use
Wash out fertilizer or seed residue and allow to dry. For ice melt use, rinse thoroughly to prevent corrosion.
Calibrating Sta-Green Spreader in 5 Steps
- Measure 1,000 sq ft of lawn (e.g., 20 ft × 50 ft).
- Weigh out the product needed for that area (check bag label for lbs per 1,000 sq ft).
- Fill the hopper with only that amount.
- Set the dial to the recommended starting setting (e.g., 4).
- Walk the test area at normal pace. If product runs out too early, lower setting; if too much remains, increase setting slightly.
Pro Tips for Different Products
- Fertilizers: Apply in two passes at half-rate each, crossing at right angles, for maximum uniformity.
- Seed: Use lower settings to avoid waste—grass seed spreads farther than fertilizer.
- Lime: Use a higher setting due to the heavier material. Multiple passes may be needed.
- Ice Melt: Open the setting higher and walk faster to avoid clumps in cold conditions.
Common Problems & Fixes
- Uneven Spread Pattern: Likely due to walking speed or clogged hopper. Clean and recalibrate.
- Spreader Not Dropping Product: Check for obstructions or rust in the plate.
- Excessive Dumping: Setting too high or starting spreader while stationary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can Sta-Green spreaders be used for Scotts products?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust settings. Start lower than Scotts’ bag recommendation and calibrate.
2. Are Sta-Green spreaders durable for large lawns?
They are suitable for medium-sized residential lawns, but for commercial or very large properties, brands like Lesco or Earthway may perform better.
3. Can I use Sta-Green spreaders for organic fertilizers?
Yes, but organic fertilizers vary in size and weight—start at setting 5 and adjust.
4. How often should I calibrate?
At least once per season, or whenever switching product types.
5. Do Sta-Green spreaders work for liquid products?
No, they are only designed for dry materials like seed, fertilizer, lime, and ice melt.
Final Thoughts
Sta-Green spreaders strike the right balance between affordability and reliability, making them a solid choice for homeowners who want an even lawn without overspending. By following the correct settings, calibrating properly, and applying evenly, you can maximize the results of your fertilizer, seed, lime, or ice melt applications.
Would you like me to also create a universal Sta-Green quick settings chart (like a printable guide) that combines all common lawn products (Scotts, Sta-Green, Pennington, etc.) into one reference table?
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.