When it comes to fertilizing, seeding, or applying lawn treatments, the right spreader settings make a big difference in coverage and efficiency. Two of the most popular spreader brands in the U.S. are Vigoro and Scotts.
In this guide, we’ll compare Vigoro spreader settings to Scotts, highlight differences, and provide example setting charts to help you get started.
Vigoro Spreader Settings vs Scotts
| Product Type | Example Product | Vigoro Setting | Scotts Setting (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawn Fertilizer | 29-0-4 All-Purpose | 4.5 | 6.5 |
| Weed & Feed | 28-0-3 with Weed Control | 5 | 7.5 |
| Grass Seed | Tall Fescue | 4 | 6 |
| Grass Seed | Kentucky Bluegrass | 3.5 | 5.25 |
| Grass Seed | Perennial Ryegrass | 3.75 | 5.5 |
| Starter Fertilizer | 18-24-6 Starter | 4 | 6 |
| Pre-Emergent | Crabgrass Preventer | 4.5 | 6.5 |
| Pre-Emergent + Fertilizer | 20-0-7 Weed Preventer with Fertilizer | 4.25 | 6.25 |
| Summer Lawn Food | High Nitrogen Blend | 4.25 | 6.25 |
| Overseeding Mix | Sun & Shade Grass Seed | 3.75 | 5.5 |
| Overseeding Mix | Drought-Tolerant Grass Mix | 3.5 | 5.25 |
| Winterizer Fertilizer | Low Nitrogen Winter Lawn Feed | 4 | 6 |
| Insect Control Granules | Lawn Insect Killer | 3.5 | 5.25 |
| Grub Control | Season-Long Grub Preventer | 4.25 | 6.25 |
| Soil Conditioner | Pelletized Gypsum | 4.5 | 6.5 |
| Lime | Pelletized Lawn Lime | 4 | 6 |
| Organic Fertilizer | Milorganite | 4.25 | 6.25 |
| Moss Control | Moss Killer for Lawns | 3.75 | 5.5 |
| Slow-Release Fertilizer | 32-0-4 Extended Feeding | 4.5 | 6.5 |
| Turf Builder | Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food 30-0-3 | 4.75 | 7 |
| Disease Control | Lawn Fungus Control | 4 | 6 |
| Liquid Fertilizer (Granular) | Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food | 4.25 | 6.25 |
| Iron Supplement | Ironite Mineral Supplement 1-0-1 | 3.5 | 5.25 |
| Broadleaf Weed Control | Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer | 4.5 | 6.5 |
| Annual Grass Seed | Annual Ryegrass | 3.75 | 5.5 |
Note: Settings are approximate and may vary based on specific spreader models and product formulations.
How to Convert Vigoro Settings to Scotts
While there’s no perfect one-to-one conversion, you can use this general rule of thumb:
- Scotts Setting = Vigoro Setting × 1.5
- Vigoro Setting = Scotts Setting ÷ 1.5
Example:
If the product label says Vigoro setting 4, you’d try Scotts setting around 6.Still, always test in a small section first before doing your entire lawn.
Related Scotts Spreader Settings Chart(For All Products & Types)
Understanding the Basics of Spreader Settings
Spreader settings determine how much product is released as you walk across your lawn. Both Vigoro and Scotts use a numbered dial system, but the numbers are not interchangeable between brands.
For example:
- A setting of 5 on a Vigoro spreader may release far more or far less material than a 5 on a Scotts spreader.
- This is because each manufacturer designs their spreaders with different aperture sizes, flow rates, and calibration methods.
Related Yardworks Spreader Settings Chart(For All Product Types)
Why Settings Differ Between Brands
Even if you use the exact same product, the opening size of the spreader gate, the spreader width, and distribution pattern will vary between brands.
This means you cannot directly transfer a Vigoro setting to a Scotts setting without adjustment. Instead, you can cross-reference using manufacturer recommendations or by doing a simple calibration test:
- Measure out 100 square feet of lawn.
- Weigh the amount of product the manufacturer recommends for that area.
- Start at a mid-range setting (e.g., 5 for Vigoro, 7 for Scotts).
- Walk the area and see if you run out too soon or still have product left.
- Adjust settings until you match the correct coverage.
Related John Deere Planter Plates Chart(For All Models)
Tips for Using Any Lawn Spreader
Whether you own a Vigoro or Scotts spreader, these best practices will help you achieve even coverage:
- Walk at a steady pace, don’t rush or slow down too much.
- Overlap slightly between passes to avoid stripes.
- Close the hopper when turning to prevent product dumping.
- Clean after each use to prevent corrosion or clogging.
- Store in a dry place to extend life.
Related John Deere 7200 Planter Rate Chart(Complete Guide)
Which Is Better: Vigoro or Scotts?
The best choice depends on your priorities:
- Choose Vigoro if you want a budget-friendly spreader for occasional use and you typically buy Vigoro lawn products from Home Depot.
- Choose Scotts if you want more precise settings, a wider range of product compatibility, and premium build quality.
For homeowners with smaller lawns, both brands work well. For larger lawns or frequent treatments, Scotts spreaders often have more durable designs and finer control over application rates.
Related High Mowing Planting Chart(Complete Guide for Gardeners)
FAQs
What is the spreader setting for Vigoro fertilizer?
The spreader setting for Vigoro fertilizer typically falls between 4 and 5 on most Vigoro broadcast spreaders, depending on the specific product and application rate. Always check the fertilizer bag for exact recommendations, as different formulations require different settings.
What setting should I set my spreader in?
The correct spreader setting depends on the product type, application rate, and spreader model. As a starting point, use the manufacturer’s suggested setting on the product label. If unavailable, begin at a mid-range setting, test on a small area, and adjust until you achieve even coverage.
What do the numbers mean on my spreader?
The numbers on a spreader control the size of the opening in the hopper, which determines how much product is released. Higher numbers mean a larger opening and faster product flow, while lower numbers release less material. These numbers are brand-specific and not interchangeable between Vigoro and Scotts.
What setting should pre-emergent spreaders be on?
For most pre-emergent products like crabgrass preventers, the spreader setting is usually around 4.5 for Vigoro and 6.5 for Scotts. The exact setting may vary depending on product granule size and application rate, so it’s best to follow the manufacturer’s label instructions.
How to use Vigoro fertilizer?
- Check the product label for the recommended setting.
- Fill your spreader on a flat, paved surface to avoid spills.
- Start walking at a steady pace, overlapping slightly between passes.
- Close the spreader hopper before stopping or turning to prevent dumping.
- Water the lawn lightly afterward if the product instructions require it.
What setting on a Scotts spreader for fertilizer?
For most lawn fertilizers, Scotts spreaders use a setting between 3.25 and 4 on their broadcast models. Always refer to the product bag’s recommended setting for accuracy, as different fertilizer blends require different flow rates.
How to calculate a fertilizer spreader?
To calculate the correct setting:
- Measure 100 square feet of your lawn.
- Weigh the amount of fertilizer recommended for that area.
- Start at the manufacturer’s suggested setting.
- Spread over the measured area and see if it runs out evenly.
- Adjust the setting higher or lower until coverage matches the recommended rate.
Final Thoughts
Vigoro and Scotts spreaders both do an excellent job at distributing lawn products, but their settings are brand-specific. The most important thing is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your exact product and spreader model.
