Scotts spreaders are designed to help you apply seeds, fertilizers, ice melt, and other lawn products evenly across your yard. But to get the best results without wasting product or harming your grass, you need to use the correct spreader settings.
This guide explains what Scotts spreader settings are, why they matter, and provides a comprehensive Scotts Spreader Settings Chart for different models.
Scotts Spreader Settings Chart
Fertilizer
| Spreader Type | Product | Rate (g/sq.m or lbs/1000 sq.ft) | Recommended Setting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drop Spreader | Evergreen Complete | 35 g/sq.m | 6 |
| Drop Spreader | Evergreen Autumn | 35 g/sq.m | 7.5 |
| Drop Spreader | Cut & Feed Lawn Food | 30 g/sq.m | 5 |
| Drop Spreader | Organic Choice Lawn Food | 35–50 g/sq.m | 7.5–8.25 |
| Drop Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 7 |
| Drop Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 7.5 |
| Drop Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 7 |
| Drop Spreader | Scotts Step 1 Starter Fertilizer | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 6.5 |
| Drop Spreader | Scotts Step 2 Weed Control Plus Lawn Food | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 6.5 |
| Drop Spreader | Scotts Step 3 Lawn Food with 2% Iron | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 7 |
| Drop Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Food | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 7 |
| Rotary Spreader | Evergreen Complete | 35 g/sq.m | 27 |
| Rotary Spreader | Evergreen Autumn | 35 g/sq.m | 28 |
| Rotary Spreader | Cut & Feed Lawn Food | 30 g/sq.m | 26 |
| Rotary Spreader | Organic Choice Lawn Food | 35–50 g/sq.m | 29.5–31.5 |
| Rotary Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 5.5 |
| Rotary Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 6.5 |
| Rotary Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 6 |
| Rotary Spreader | Scotts Step 1 Starter Fertilizer | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 5.5 |
| Rotary Spreader | Scotts Step 2 Weed Control Plus Lawn Food | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 5.5 |
| Rotary Spreader | Scotts Step 3 Lawn Food with 2% Iron | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 5.5 |
| Rotary Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Food | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 5.5 |
| Handy Spreader | Cut & Feed Lawn Food | 30 g/sq.m | 5 |
| Handy Spreader | Organic Choice Lawn Food | 35–50 g/sq.m | 5 |
| Handy Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4 |
| Handy Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4.5 |
| Handy Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4 |
| Handy Spreader | Scotts Step 1 Starter Fertilizer | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4 |
| Handy Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Food | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4 |
| EdgeGuard Spreader | Lawn Food | 50 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 5 |
| EdgeGuard Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4.5 |
| EdgeGuard Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Starter Food for New Grass | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4.5 |
| Elite Spreader | Turf Builder Lawn Food | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 3.5 |
| Elite Spreader | Fall Lawn Food | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 3.75 |
| Elite Spreader | Step 3 Lawn Food with 2% Iron | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 3.5 |
| Elite Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Food | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 3.5 |
Related John Deere Planter Plates Chart(For All Models)
Grass Seed
| Spreader Type | Product | Rate (g/sq.m or lbs/1000 sq.ft) | Recommended Setting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drop Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed | 5 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 7 |
| Drop Spreader | Thick’R Lawn Sun and Shade | 4.5 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 7 |
| Drop Spreader | Grass Seed Dense Shade Mix | 4.5 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 7 |
| Drop Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Kentucky Bluegrass Mix | 3 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 6.5 |
| Drop Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Perennial Ryegrass Mix | 3 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 6.5 |
| Rotary Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed | 5 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 5.5 |
| Rotary Spreader | Thick’R Lawn Sun and Shade | 4.5 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 5.5 |
| Rotary Spreader | Grass Seed Dense Shade Mix | 4.5 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 5.5 |
| Rotary Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Kentucky Bluegrass Mix | 3 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 5 |
| Rotary Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Perennial Ryegrass Mix | 3 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 5 |
| Handy Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed | 5 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4 |
| Handy Spreader | Thick’R Lawn Sun and Shade | 4.5 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4 |
| Handy Spreader | Grass Seed Dense Shade Mix | 4.5 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4 |
| Handy Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Kentucky Bluegrass Mix | 3 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 3.5 |
| EdgeGuard Spreader | Tall Fescue Mix (New Seeding) | – | 18 |
| EdgeGuard Spreader | Tall Fescue Mix (Overseeding) | – | 9.5–10 |
| EdgeGuard Spreader | Rye Mix (New Seeding) | – | 15 |
| EdgeGuard Spreader | Rye Mix (Overseeding) | – | 9.5–10 |
| EdgeGuard Spreader | Sun and Shade Mix (New Seeding) | – | 12–12.5 |
| EdgeGuard Spreader | Sun and Shade Mix (Overseeding) | – | 8.5–9.5 |
| Elite Spreader | Turf Builder Grass Seed Sun & Shade | – | 5.5 |
| Elite Spreader | Turf Builder Grass Tall Fescue Mix | – | 13.5 |
| Elite Spreader | Turf Builder Perennial Ryegrass Mix | – | 5.5 |
Related John Deere 7000 Planter Sprocket Chart for Corn
Weed Control
| Spreader Type | Product | Rate (g/sq.m or lbs/1000 sq.ft) | Recommended Setting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drop Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 6.5 |
| Drop Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 6.5 |
| Rotary Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 5.5 |
| Rotary Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 5.5 |
| Handy Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4 |
| Handy Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4 |
| EdgeGuard Spreader | Weed Control | 40 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4.5 |
| EdgeGuard Spreader | Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & Feed | 4.4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4.5 |
| Elite Spreader | Turf Builder Weed & Feed | – | 3.5 |
| Elite Spreader | Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & Feed | – | 3.75 |
Related John Deere 7200 Planter Rate Chart(Complete Guide)
Insecticide
| Spreader Type | Product | Rate (g/sq.m or lbs/1000 sq.ft) | Recommended Setting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drop Spreader | Scotts GrubEx | 2.9 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 6 |
| Drop Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard Insecticide | 2.9 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 6 |
| Rotary Spreader | Scotts GrubEx | 2.9 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4.5 |
| Rotary Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard Insecticide | 2.9 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4.5 |
| Handy Spreader | Scotts GrubEx | 2.9 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 3.5 |
| Handy Spreader | Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard Insecticide | 2.9 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 3.5 |
| EdgeGuard Spreader | GrubEx | 2.9 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4 |
| Elite Spreader | GrubEx | – | 3.5 |
| Elite Spreader | Turf Builder SummerGuard Insecticide | – | 3.5 |
Lime
| Spreader Type | Product | Rate (g/sq.m or lbs/1000 sq.ft) | Recommended Setting |
|---|---|---|---|
| EdgeGuard Spreader | Lime (Initial) | 40 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 7–8 |
| EdgeGuard Spreader | Lime (Maintenance) | 20 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 2–3 |
| Elite Spreader | Lime | – | 2–10 |
Related John Deere 7000 Planter Population Chart(Complete Guide)
Moss Control
| Spreader Type | Product | Rate (g/sq.m or lbs/1000 sq.ft) | Recommended Setting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drop Spreader | Scotts Moss Control Granules (Heavy) | 4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 6 |
| Drop Spreader | Scotts Moss Control Granules (Light) | 2 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 5 |
| Rotary Spreader | Scotts Moss Control Granules (Heavy) | 4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 5 |
| Rotary Spreader | Scotts Moss Control Granules (Light) | 2 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4 |
| Handy Spreader | Scotts Moss Control Granules (Heavy) | 4 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4 |
| Handy Spreader | Scotts Moss Control Granules (Light) | 2 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 3.5 |
| Elite Spreader | Moss Control Granules (Heavy) | – | 3 |
| Elite Spreader | Moss Control Granules (Light) | – | 2.5 |
Fungicide
| Spreader Type | Product | Rate (g/sq.m or lbs/1000 sq.ft) | Recommended Setting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drop Spreader | Scotts DiseaseEx Lawn Fungicide (Heavy) | 2 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 5.5 |
| Drop Spreader | Scotts DiseaseEx Lawn Fungicide (Light) | 1 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4.5 |
| Rotary Spreader | Scotts DiseaseEx Lawn Fungicide (Heavy) | 2 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 4 |
| Rotary Spreader | Scotts DiseaseEx Lawn Fungicide (Light) | 1 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 3.5 |
| Handy Spreader | Scotts DiseaseEx Lawn Fungicide (Heavy) | 2 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 3.5 |
| Handy Spreader | Scotts DiseaseEx Lawn Fungicide (Light) | 1 lbs/1000 sq.ft | 3 |
| Elite Spreader | DiseaseEx Lawn Fungicide (Heavy) | – | 4 |
| Elite Spreader | DiseaseEx Lawn Fungicide (Light) | – | 3.5 |
Related Mower Productivity Calculator
Specialty
| Spreader Type | Product | Rate (g/sq.m or lbs/1000 sq.ft) | Recommended Setting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drop Spreader | Mow It Less | 30 g/sq.m | 5 |
| Rotary Spreader | Mow It Less | 30 g/sq.m | 26 |
| Handy Spreader | Mow It Less | 30 g/sq.m | 5 |
| Elite Spreader | Sand | – | 2–10 |
Note: Settings are approximate and may vary based on spreader condition, walking speed, and environmental factors. Always check the product label for precise settings and calibrate your spreader for accuracy.
How to Use Scotts Spreader Settings
- Check Product Label – Scotts products usually have the recommended spreader settings printed on the bag.
- Choose the Correct Spreader – Identify if you’re using a Drop, Broadcast, or Hand-Held spreader.
- Set the Dial – Adjust the dial or lever to the recommended setting.
- Walk at a Steady Pace – Maintain a consistent walking speed for an even application.
- Overlap Slightly – For broadcast spreaders, slightly overlap paths to avoid striping.
Related High Mowing Planting Chart(Complete Guide for Gardeners)
Tips for Best Results
- Always test on a small area first – This ensures the setting is right for your specific product and spreader.
- Refill before running empty – Avoid streaks by keeping product flow consistent.
- Clean after each use – Residual fertilizer or seed can clog openings or cause rust.
- Adjust for walking speed – Faster walking applies less product; slower walking applies more.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring Product Instructions – Even if you know your spreader well, each product’s density varies.
- Not Calibrating the Spreader – Over time, mechanisms loosen, affecting accuracy.
- Skipping Overlap – Especially with broadcast spreaders, skipping overlap leaves visible stripes.
- Applying in Windy Conditions – This can cause uneven coverage or drift.
FAQs
What setting do I use for Scotts spreader?
The setting you use for a Scotts spreader depends on the product type, spreader model, and desired coverage rate. Always refer to the product label for the exact setting. If unavailable, use a general guide, such as 4 to 6 for fertilizers on broadcast spreaders and 8 to 10 on drop spreaders for grass seed, then adjust after testing on a small area.
How many lbs per 1000 sq ft for Scotts standard spreader settings?
Most Scotts lawn fertilizers are applied at about 2.5 to 3.5 pounds per 1,000 square feet for maintenance feeding, though some specialized products may require 4 to 5 pounds. Always confirm with the specific product instructions to avoid under- or over-applying.
How to figure out spreader settings?
To determine spreader settings:
- Check the product label for the manufacturer’s recommendation.
- If no setting is given, measure a small test area and apply the product using a guessed mid-range setting.
- Weigh the remaining product to calculate how much was used per 1,000 sq ft.
- Adjust the dial up or down until the desired rate is achieved.
What spreader setting for lime Scotts?
For applying lime with a Scotts spreader, a setting between 6.5 and 10 is typical, depending on the type of lime (pelletized or powdered) and the spreader model. Pelletized lime usually requires a lower setting than powdered lime because it flows more easily.
What is the best grass spreader setting?
For most Scotts spreaders, the best setting for grass seed is between 6 and 10 for new lawns and 3 to 6 for overseeding. The exact number will depend on your spreader type and the seed size, finer seeds require lower settings, while larger seeds may need higher settings.
How to use Scotts manual spreader?
To use a Scotts manual (hand-held) spreader:
- Fill the hopper with the desired product.
- Set the dial to the recommended setting.
- Hold the spreader level and start walking at a steady pace.
- Squeeze the trigger to release the product while cranking the handle.
- Apply evenly, slightly overlapping passes for full coverage.
