Yardworks Spreader Settings: Charts and Tips Guide 2025

Yardworks spreaders are popular among homeowners for applying lawn care products like fertilizer, grass seed, salt, and lime. These include:

• Broadcast spreaders – Yardworks 18105, 18112
• Drop spreaders – Yardworks 28104, 28105
• Hand‑held spreaders – Yardworks 18106

Proper settings are essential for even, efficient coverage. A well‑calibrated spreader improves grass health, saves money, and prevents turf damage or environmental runoff. This guide includes:

1. How spreader settings work
2. Product‑specific setting charts
3. Calibration and best‑use practices
4. Troubleshooting common problems
5. Comprehensive FAQs
6. Additional tips and maintenance advice

1. How Yardworks Spreader Settings Work

Yardworks spreaders feature numbered settings on a dial that controls the opening at the hopper base. Lower numbers = less material flow; higher numbers = more.

Each product (fertilizer, seed, ice melt) has a recommended setting for each spreader type. This setting ensures application matches the product label—measured in lbs per 1,000 sq ft.

Calibration steps:

1. Determine your lawn size in sq ft.
2. Read product’s recommended rate (e.g., 1.0 lb/1,000 ft²).
3. Set the dial to the number specified for your spreader.
4. Walk at a steady pace (2.5–3 mph).
5. Overlap passes slightly (10–20%).
6. Observe after your first pass and adjust if necessary.

2. Yardworks Settings Chart

Below is a practical chart with common Scotts/Yardworks-compatible products and suggested settings for popular Yardworks models. Always cross‑check with product labels.

Note: Drop spreaders are usually slower and more precise—dial settings are roughly half of broadcast settings.

3. Calibration & Best Practices

A. Walk Pacing

• Aim for 2.5–3 mph – think a brisk walk.
• Practice pacing using an app or by timing a known‐length walkway.

B. Overlapping

• Overlap each pass by 10–20% of the spread width.
• Watch material landing pattern—if there’s banding, widen step width slightly.

C. Wind & Moisture Considerations

• Avoid setting on very windy days—wind shifts granules.
• Moisture can clog spreader gate—wipe off damp material or elevate it under cover.

D. Calibration Test

1. Place containers at gate position.
2. Run spreader 10 ft on your driveway.
3. Collect dispensed material and weigh it.
4. Multiply to approximate lbs/1,000 ft² and compare with product instructions.
5. Adjust setting if off by >5%.

E. Gate Adjustment

• Some Yardworks models allow reversing plastic gate plate for finer increments.
• If unused, tighten bolt lightly before first use to prevent gate wobble.

4. Troubleshooting Common Issues

5. FAQs

Q1: Why are Yardworks and Scotts settings different?

A: Manufacturers tailor settings to hopper flow and spread patterns—use product label and chart for your specific spreader.

Q2: Can I use fertilizers in my handheld spreader?

A: Yes—but heavier mixes (like lime or rock salt) may strain the handle. Use small amounts or choose a broadcast unit.

Q3: How do I adjust for small lawns (<2,000 ft²)?

A: Calculate total material needed and reduce passes accordingly. Perform test application to verify final depth.

Q4: I see clumps—what’s wrong?

A: Likely moisture. Don’t store open bags outdoors. Sift material and ensure dispenser is clean and dry.

Q5: What’s best spreader for grass seed?

A: Broadcast models (18105) are preferred for even spread. Drop spreaders risk creating straight lines and uneven germination.

Q6: Can I warm the spreader gate with heat to open it?

A: No—never use high-heat sources like heat guns. Sharp or slow warm water helps loosen ice.

Q7: Should the spreader gate stay open overnight?

A: No—after use, clean and close the gate to keep dust out. Open slightly if hopper is damp to dry moisture.

Q8: Do I need to recalibrate every season?

A: Yes—particle size and moisture change year to year. Always test first pass and record settings.

Q9: How do I store the spreader over winter?

A: Clean inside, lubricate moving parts, apply bolt grease to prevent rust, and store indoors or covered.

Q10: Do I really need to overlap?

A: Absolutely—without overlap, you’ll see stripe patterns and missed patches prone to weeds or poor growth.

6. Advanced Tips

• Cross‑walking (apply north/south then east/west) eliminates streaks.
• Seasonal journals: Track product-date-setting-weather for future reference.
• Keep a flow sample: Save ½ cup of each product at opening for consistency in later years.

7. Maintenance Checklist

• Inspect and lubricate wheel axles every spring
• Check dial calibration and tighten adjustment screws
• Scrub hopper with warm water, avoid soap
• Spray gate mechanism with anti‑stick lubricant
• Cover spreader under vehicle or shed

8. Putting It All Together

Yardworks spreaders can deliver consistent lawn care—when properly set, walked, and maintained. Use the chart, test the first few passes, and keep a log for future seasons. Adjust for weather, material shifts, and lawn size. With care, these affordable tools will pay dividends in turf condition and time saved.

✅ Final Recap

• Walk control is king – maintain speed and overlap
• Calibrate each batch – don’t assume old settings are accurate
• Cleanliness matters – it avoids clogs and frozen gates
• Routine maintenance ensures smooth, reliable distribution

David Holtzman

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.