A simple visual pattern test can be made
by operating the spreader over a non-turf
area and evaluating the pattern. A more
accurate method is to place a row of
common, disposable, aluminum cake
pans approximately 1 foot on centers.
Set the rate cam at a middle setting and
make 3 or 4 passes in the same direction
as shown. Pour the material collected
from each pan into individual bottles of
the same size. Set them side by side in
order, and visually inspect their volume.
The effective pattern width is the
distance out from the spreader to a point
where the amount of material is 1/2 the
average amount in the center pans. This
distance is multiplied by 2 to achieve the
total effective pattern width.
Knowing the effective pattern width (for example,
10 feet), measure a distance equal to 100 square
feet (10’ x 10’ area covered). Determine the
product coverage is pounds/ 100 sq. ft. by taking
the weight of the product and dividing it by the
recommended square foot coverage (add two
zeroes to the weight of the bag).
EXAMPLE: Product weight: 25 lbs.
sq. ft. coverage: 5,000 sq. ft.
2500 lbs. - 5,000 sq. ft.
= .5 lbs. / 100 sq. ft.
Weigh out between 15 to 20 lbs. of
material and spread over the 100 sq. ft.
area. Weigh remaining material left in
hopper and adjust rate setting as
required. Repeat test until application
rate is correct.
HOW TO DETERMINE SPREADER
SETTINGS AND SPREAD WIDTH
Two major factors should be considered when determining correct spreader settings of any
product:
1. The product application rate, or the amount of material applied per 1,000 square feet.
2. The effective pattern width, or the actual width in which material is applied. Label settings
are a guide and can be affected by numerous factors.
EFFECTIVE PATTERN WIDTH
APPLICATION RATE
