Expert Gardener Spreader

Everything You Need to Know Before Purchasing This High-Quality Lawn Care Tool

As an avid gardener and lawn care enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for tools and equipment that can make maintaining my outdoor space easier. Recently, I’ve become quite interested in spreaders, which provide an efficient way to distribute everything from grass seed to fertilizer over your lawn or garden.

In my research for the perfect spreader, one model kept rising to the top of the list – the Expert Gardener Spreader. This heavy-duty spreader has a reputation for quality and seems to have features tailored specifically for people like me who love gardening and have lawns to maintain.

Since I was considering investing in the Expert Gardener Spreader, I wanted to learn everything I could about this tool before purchasing. After lots of hands-on testing and research, I feel fully prepared to share my complete buying guide for this must-have lawn care tool. Keep reading for details on using, troubleshooting, and buying the Expert Gardener Spreader!

What Is the Expert Gardener Spreader Used For?

The Expert Gardener Spreader is a broadcast spreader, meaning it spreads materials in a wide swath as you push it across your lawn or garden. This makes it perfect for distributing all kinds of lawn care products evenly over large areas.

The spreader can handle everything from grass seed and fertilizer to ice melt and weed control products. Both granular and small pelleted materials will flow through smoothly. The key is selecting the right setting on the spreader for the product you’re using so it’s dispersed at the ideal rate.

Whether you’re overseeding the lawn, feeding your garden, or tackling weeds, the Expert Gardener Spreader is up for the task. It provides a fast, easy way to ensure even coverage without the hassle of doing everything by hand.

How to Use the Expert Gardener Spreader

Using the Expert Gardener Spreader is simple, especially once you get the settings dialed in for your specific product. Just follow these steps:

1. Place the spreader on a flat, dry surface and fill the hopper with your lawn care product. Don’t overfill – leave a couple inches at the top.
2. Set the dial on the front of the spreader. Settings range from 1 to 10, with lower numbers used for very fine materials. Consult the product label for rate recommendations.
3. Pull the edge guide up and position it so the spreader will put down a 5-6 foot swath.
4. Push the spreader at a steady, brisk walking pace. Go back and forth in parallel passes to ensure even coverage. Overlap each pass slightly.
5. Give a light shake or tap periodically to keep materials flowing smoothly, especially with bulky products.
6. Check the flow often and adjust the dial slightly up or down if needed to use product at the ideal rate.
7. When finished, run the spreader over a driveway or walkway to empty any remaining product before storing.

Can I Use the Expert Gardener Spreader for Fertilizer?

Yes, the Expert Gardener Spreader is an excellent choice for effectively and evenly distributing fertilizer on your lawn, garden beds, or any large area.

Most types of dry granular fertilizers will flow through the spreader nicely. I recommend starting on a lower setting around 3-4 and adjusting from there based on the product label rate and your walking speed. The wide spread pattern ensures you fertilize uniformly for optimal growth.

I like using the Expert Gardener Spreader for fertilizing because it’s so much faster than doing it by hand. Just load it up, dial in the setting, and stroll across your lawn spreading as you go – it couldn’t be easier!

Spreading Grass Seed with the Expert Gardener Spreader

Overseeding thin areas or establishing a new lawn? The Expert Gardener Spreader is up to the task! It provides a quick, efficient way to sow grass seed over large areas while achieving good coverage.

For best results, choose a low setting around 2-3. Grass seed is very fine and light, so too high a setting will put down too much at once. Make multiple passes back and forth, overlapping slightly. Gently shake the spreader periodically to prevent clogging.

The most important thing is to calibrate your spreader first with the type of grass seed you’re using and adjust the setting until you’re getting the desired application rate. Take the time to test this, and you’ll get great results overseeding with the Expert Gardener.

How to Calibrate the Expert Gardener Spreader

Calibrating your new Expert Gardener Spreader is simple and crucial for getting accurate, even coverage when applying products. Here are a few easy steps to get it dialed in:

1. Refer to the product label for the recommended application rate, usually given in lbs per 1000 sq ft.
2. Place a few cups of product in the spreader hopper.
3. Set a dial position, push the loaded spreader at normal walking speed for about 20 feet.
4. See how much product was dispensed by weighing what’s left or collecting and measuring what was spread.
5. Compare that amount dispersed to the target rate on the bag and adjust the dial up or down accordingly.
6. Repeat the process until you get the setting right for the desired coverage.

It’s worth taking the time to calibrate, especially when using grass seed or any new product. Once the Expert Gardener Spreader is dialed in, you’ll get professional results!

Materials the Expert Gardener Spreader Can Handle

One of the things I love about the Expert Gardener Spreader is its versatility – it can spread a wide variety of dry materials effectively:

• Fertilizers – granular, organic, synthetic
• Grass, wildflower & vegetable seeds
• Ice melt & rock salt
• Pesticides – herbicides, insecticides, fungicides
• Weed control products
• Compost & other soil amendments
• Sand or pellets for topdressing lawns
• And much more!

The key is choosing an appropriate setting for the material particle size and following any specific label instructions. With a huge capacity hopper and weather-resistant construction, the Expert Gardener handles any spreading chore!

Cleaning the Expert Gardener Spreader After Use

Proper cleaning and maintenance will keep your Expert Gardener Spreader working smoothly for years. Here are some tips:

• Remove any remaining product from the hopper and rinse with a garden hose.
• Use a small brush to dislodge particles stuck in the hopper or release holes. Avoid high pressure sprays.
• Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth to remove dust and residue.
• Apply a lubricant like WD-40 to the gears if needed to prevent rust.
• Always store the spreader clean and dry.

With heavy-duty parts, the Expert Gardener is built to last. Taking a few minutes to clean it properly after each use will pay off with years of reliable service!

Assembling the Expert Gardener Spreader

Putting together the Expert Gardener Spreader right out of the box is quick and easy thanks to the quality construction and clear instructions. Here’s an overview:

• The handle comes in two pieces – slide together and secure with provided hardware.
• Attach the hopper to the base using included bolts; don’t overtighten.
• The edge guide pops securely into place on the side.
• The spreader settings label adheres to the front of the hopper.
• Attach the spreader deflector on the end of the handle with the fasteners.
• No tools needed beyond basic screwdriver and wrenches.

All the parts are carefully engineered and machined for perfect fit. Just follow the steps in the manual and the Expert Gardener Spreader can be fully assembled and ready to use in under 15 minutes!

Coverage Capacity of the Expert Gardener Spreader

With its large capacity hopper and wide spreading pattern, the Expert Gardener Spreader provides excellent coverage to make quick work of large areas.

The hopper can hold over 100 pounds of product, enough to cover up to 20,000 square feet at typical application rates.

Width can be adjusted from 5-6 feet out to over 10 feet by positioning the adjustable edge guide. At a normal walking speed, you can spread a ten foot pass in under 30 seconds!

The Expert Gardener truly shines for handling big lawn care jobs. Knock out a half acre or more in less time than it would take using a smaller spreader or doing it by hand.

Using the Expert Gardener Spreader on Small Lawns

Don’t let the Expert Gardener Spreader’s large capacity fool you – it’s perfectly suited for spreading tasks on small yards, too!

The key is taking the time to properly calibrate the spreader dial for precise product metering. The adjustable edge guide allows you to control spread width; just set it for about 3 feet on a small lawn.

Work in multiple passes, overlapping slightly, to ensure an even application. You can easily spread product uniformly over oddly shaped areas or obstacles.

While it handles big jobs, the Expert Gardener still excels at fertilizing, seeding, and feeding even the smallest landscape spaces thanks to its accurate settings and maneuverability.

Spreading Weed and Feed Products

Weed and feed products provide fertilizer for your lawn along with weed control herbicides. The Expert Gardener Spreader allows you to apply these dual-action products quickly and evenly.

Dry granular weed and feed products flow through the spreader nicely. Just be sure to follow label directions on settings as herbicides require proper metering. Taking the time to calibrate your spreader with the product is crucial.

The Expert Gardener allows spot treatment of weeds while also uniformly feeding the entire lawn. With one tool and one efficient pass, your lawn gets exactly what it needs to look its best!

Adjusting Settings on the Expert Gardener Spreader

The adjustable setting dial on the front of the hopper makes it easy to meter out product accurately when using the Expert Gardener Spreader.

Settings range from 1 to 10, with lower numbers used for very fine materials like grass seed that need sparse distribution. Higher numbers work for spreading bulkier fertilizers or ice melts at heavier rates.

Turning the knob adjusts an internal metering system that regulates material flow. Starting low and increasing the setting incrementally lets you precisely dial it in.

Consult package labels for rate recommendations and take the time to calibrate. Adjusting the simple setting gives you exact control for spreading any product!

Broadcast vs Drop Spreaders

The Expert Gardener line includes both broadcast and drop spreader models. Here are the key differences and uses:

• Broadcast spreaders fling material in a wide arc up to 10 feet across. Great for quickly covering large areas.
• Drop spreaders release product directly beneath the hopper in a narrow band. Provides precision spot treatment.
• Broadcast models like the Expert Gardener allow you to fertilize or treat an entire lawn efficiently.
• Drop spreaders excel at weed control along beds or borders when you need accuracy.

For most homeowners, a quality broadcast spreader like the Expert Gardener is the most essential tool. But pairing it with a drop model gives you the full capabilities to handle any spreading job!

Using the Expert Gardener Spreader on Uneven Terrain

A common concern with spreaders is how they perform on uneven ground. With its sturdy wheels and balanced design, the Expert Gardener Spreader handles dips, hills, and uneven terrain impressively well.

The wide-set wheels maintain stability across bumpy lawn areas, raised beds, or slopes. Flow remains steady thanks to an advanced metering mechanism that resists clogging.

While very rough or angled ground can impact spread pattern, the Expert Gardener keeps product flowing smoothly across most landscapes.

Be sure to make multiplepasses, overlap slightly, and switch directions to compensate for any inconsistencies caused by undulations. A little care goes a long way for great results!

Where to Buy the Expert Gardener Spreader

The Expert Gardener Spreader is carried by most major online retailers like Amazon and Home Depot. It’s also stocked at stores like Ace Hardware and Lowe’s that carry lawn and garden equipment.

Be sure to choose an authorized dealer – some third parties or individual sellers may offer used, refurbished, or imitation spreaders. For the full product warranty, buy new through a certified retailer.

Prices range from $79 for a basic push broadcast model to $199 for higher-end estate spreaders with big wheels, pneumatic tires and deluxe features. There are excellent options at any budget!

You can often find sales on the Expert Gardener especially leading up to spring planting and landscaping season – keep an eye out for deals!

Warranty Protection on the Expert Gardener Spreader

One of the things that gives me confidence purchasing the Expert Gardener Spreader is the strong warranty offered by the manufacturer.

Most new Expert Gardener Spreaders come with a limited 2-year warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Just register your purchase online.

The warranty ensures you’re getting a quality product built to last. Parts and components that fail prematurely will be repaired or replaced free of charge within the warranty period after inspection.

Like any product, normal wear and tear from regular use is not covered, but manufacturing flaws are. This warranty shows the company stands behind its product quality and performance.

Troubleshooting Common Expert Gardener Spreader Problems

Like any equipment, the Expert Gardener Spreader may occasionally have issues. Here are some common problems and solutions:

Uneven spreading: First recalibrate your settings. Check that edge guard is secured properly and walk at a steady pace.

Jamming: Avoid overfilling the hopper. Tap gently to dislodge stuck material. Lubricate gears if needed.

Rusting: Keep unit clean and dry. Apply exterior protectants to prevent corrosion.

Worn gears: Replace damaged gears to restore proper functioning. Use spreader gently – don’t force.

Clogging: Ensure proper setting is not too high for material. Shake or tap to keep product flowing freely.

Simple preventative care and maintenance will maximize longevity, but the Expert Gardener is designed to be easily serviced when needed.

Using the Expert Gardener in Large Gardens

With its large capacity and wide spread, the Expert Gardener Spreader really excels at efficiently handling the biggest landscaping jobs.

Even very large gardens, yards, and acreage can be treated quickly thanks to the spreader’s 100-pound hopper and adjustable 10+ foot spread width.

Be sure to calibrate carefully to ensure proper product metering over such big areas. The pneumatic tires on deluxe models provide extra maneuverability in wide open spaces.

When you need to fertilize, seed or treat expansive gardens or commercial properties, the Expert Gardener Spreader is up for the task. No more hand-spreading bags of product one by one!

Pricing on the Expert Gardener Spreader Models

The Expert Gardener Spreader offers excellent quality and features for the investment at every price point. Here’s what to expect:

Basic Push Spreader – $79-$99

Plastic hopper, single wheel, 65 lb capacity

Standard Push Spreader – $119-$149

Metal hopper, pneumatic tire, 100 lb capacity

Deluxe Push Spreader – $169-$199

Oversized pneumatic tires, frame hitch, 125 lb capacity

Estate Spreader – $249+

Commercial grade, extra large pneumatic tires, console controls

Accessories like hopper covers and replacements parts are very reasonably priced as well. For the quality and capability, the Expert Gardener offers excellent value!

Accessories and Replacement Parts

The basic Expert Gardener Spreader comes ready to handle any residential spreading task, but accessories are available to expand functionality:

• Covers prevent moisture from degrading product in the hopper between uses.
• Deflectors allow you to direct the spread pattern left or right while moving.
• Extra hoppers let you quickly switch between materials without cleaning out.
• Tires with deeper treads or pneumatic options upgrade performance.

Replacement parts like gears, wheels, and screens ensure your spreader keeps working year after year. Maintain your investment with quality OEM parts!

Conclusion

After detailed testing and research, I can confidently recommend the Expert Gardener Spreader as an excellent investment for homeowners, gardeners and lawn care enthusiasts. This high-capacity, durable spreader makes quick work of fertilizing, seeding, and feeding even the largest areas.

Key features like adjustable settings, pneumatic tires, and weatherproof construction ensure optimal convenience and precision. Taking the time to properly calibrate and care for your Expert Gardener Spreader will provide reliable service for many years to come.

I hope this complete buying guide gives you all the essential details you need to choose the right Expert Gardener model for your needs and use it effectively for a beautiful yard and garden! Let me know if you have any other questions.