If you’ve ever found yourself on a quest for that lush, green lawn, you know that having the right tools and techniques is crucial. Among these tools, a For a wide range of products like LESCO fertilizers and combination products, visit the Lesco Lawn Products page for more information. is a favorite among gardening enthusiasts for its reliability and precision. However, getting the most out of your Lesco spreader hinges on understanding its settings chart. This chart is your go-to resource for ensuring you’re applying your materials – be it seed, fertilizer, or pesticide – in just the right amounts, across your lawn.
Let’s explore why this little piece of paper is such an essential part of your lawn care toolkit:
“Think of your spreader settings chart as a map to a flourishing garden. It’s not just about spreading; it’s about spreading wisely.” – Lawn Care Expert
Here are some points to consider when using your Lesco spreader settings chart:
- Calibration is Key: Always calibrate your spreader before use. This ensures accuracy and efficiency.
- Understand the Numbers: Each setting corresponds to a specific rate of application, which is crucial for achieving optimal results.
- Material-Specific Settings: Different fertilizers, seeds, or pesticides require unique settings. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Weather Conditions: Adjust settings based on current weather to avoid over-application caused by wind or rain.
A Comprehensive Lesco Spreader Settings Chart
Understanding the correct settings for your Lesco spreader is pivotal to ensure efficiency and maximize the benefits of your lawn care products. Whether you’re utilizing fertilizer, grass seed, or an array of other treatment materials, each has its optimal setting.
| Material Type | Lesco 80lb Broadcast Setting | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fertilizer | 14 | Ensure the lever is properly aligned to prevent uneven distribution. |
| Grass Seed | Recommended to check specific product instructions | Cross-reference with product guidelines for accuracy. |
| Lawn Treatment | Varies by product | Refer to the Lesco product bag for designated settings. |
Aside from these settings, it’s crucial to regularly calibrate your spreader to the type of material and the size of granules being spread. As a rule of thumb, always cross-reference the number with your specific Lesco spreader model, as improper settings can lead to wasted time and money.
Factors Influencing Spreader Settings
Take into account the walking speed, spreader condition, and the specific product being applied. Each of these factors can impact the accuracy of the application.
Calibration: A Yearly Necessity
Calibrating your spreader annually ensures that you achieve consistent application results, maximizing the efficiency of your fertilization efforts.
Importance of Using Rotary Spreaders
For optimal results, apply LESCO Fertilizers and Combination Products using a rotary spreader only, avoiding uneven spread and potential wastage.
Troubleshooting Common Spreader Issues
If experiencing uneven application, consider whether your spreader settings need adjustment or if there’s a larger misunderstanding of the equipment’s operation.
How to Adjust Your Lesco Spreader Settings
Adjusting your Lesco Spreader is a critical step towards effective lawn care, saving both time and money while ensuring optimal results. Here’s a straightforward guide to fine-tuning your Lesco spreader settings.
Begin by examining the product bag. Most LESCO products will have a recommended setting indicated. This serves as a helpful starting point.
Here’s a simple step-by-step adjustment process:
- Review the Product Bag: Look for the suggested setting and note it down.
- Calibrate the Spreader: Calibration should be performed yearly. Empty the spreader’s hopper, set the dial to the recommended setting, and run a small test spread to evaluate the actual application rate.
- Assess Your Walking Speed: Your speed can influence the spread pattern. Maintain a consistent pace similar to that of mowing the lawn.
- Adjust Accordingly: If the product spread appears too light or heavy, adjust the dial slightly and retest until you achieve the desired distribution.
If you’re transitioning to a Lesco spreader from a different brand, remember this equipment may provide a different spreading experience. Thus, adjustments might be needed to match the performance you’re accustomed to.
Lesco Spreader Settings Chart
The following chart can act as a quick reference, offering suggested settings for a variety of products:
| Product Type | Recommended Setting |
|---|---|
| Grass Seed | 8 – 12 |
| Granular Fertilizer | 14 – 16 |
| Weed & Feed | 12 – 14 |
| Ice Melt | 18 – 20 |
Avoid common pitfalls like excessive application or uneven distribution, which can arise from incorrect settings or spreader malfunctions, such as the dial dumping product when the lever is off. Proper calibration, routine maintenance, and careful adjustments ensure your Lesco spreader operates efficiently.
Essential Tips for Calibrating Your Lesco Spreader
reader is crucial to ensure precise application of fertilizers and other lawn products, preventing both waste and over-application. Here, we’ll explore how to achieve accurate settings for optimal performance:
Why Calibration Matters
Regular calibration of your spreader helps maintain its effectiveness, saving you money and protecting your lawn. Even slight deviations in settings can lead to significant differences in coverage and effectiveness.
Step-by-Step Calibration Process
- Prepare Your Equipment: Ensure your spreader is clean and in good working condition. Inspect for any potential faults, such as a sticky dial.
- Set Your Dial: Check the Lesco product bag for the recommended settings and adjust your spreader dial accordingly. For most Lesco fertilizers, a setting of 14 is a standard starting point.
- Test Area: Identify a 1000 square foot test area. This ensures that your calibration mimics actual lawn conditions.
- Measure Product: Weigh enough product for the demo area. For a setting of 14, typically use between 5 to 6 pounds per 1000 sq ft, depending on the product label’s instructions.
- Perform Test: Spread the product across the test area at your usual walking pace, noting any inconsistencies.
- Weigh Remaining Product: After spreading, weigh the leftover product to determine the amount applied.
Troubleshooting Calibration Errors
If you’ve applied too much or too little product, adjustments can be made by altering the dial setting or adjusting your pace. Here’s a quick reference to help you:
| Issue | Suggested Action |
|---|---|
| Over-application | Reduce dial setting or increase walking speed. |
| Under-application | Increase dial setting or decrease walking speed. |
Additional Tips
- Always use a rotary spreader for LESCO products to ensure even distribution.
- If the spreader’s performance changes (for example, if it dumps product when the lever is off), it might be necessary to replace or repair parts.
- Cross-reference the number with your specific spreader type for accuracy.
Seasonal Adjustments for Lesco Spreaders
Seasonal adjustments are crucial for ensuring the optimal performance of your Lesco spreader throughout the year. Each season presents unique challenges and requirements for lawn care, which can significantly impact how you use your spreader.
During spring, your lawn emerges from dormancy and requires nutrients to thrive. Adjust your spreader settings to distribute a well-balanced fertilizer to promote growth. As summer arrives, focus on weed control and maintaining moisture levels, which might necessitate altering the spreader settings for targeted applications.
html
| Season | Recommended Spreader Setting | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | 8-10 | Promote Lawn Growth with Balanced Fertilizer |
| Summer | 6-8 | Maintain Moisture and Control Weeds |
| Fall | 7-9 | Prepare Lawn for Dormancy with Nutrient Enrichment |
| Winter | 5-7 | Prevent Snow Mold and Prepare for Spring Growth |
Best Practices for Using Lesco Spreaders
The setting to a Lesco spreader can feel foreign at first, especially if you’re more familiar with models, like the Scott’s spreaders, that require the lever to be pulled for activation. The Lesco spreader, while having a slightly different mechanism, presents efficiency in spread application. It’s vital you familiarize yourself with these differences and adjust accordingly for optimal results.
Understanding Product Guidelines
One of the best ways to ensure effective spreading is by adhering to the specific settings recommended by the product manufacturer. Always check the product bag for the appropriate spreader settings. This eliminates guesswork and ensures the correct application rate.
Adjusting to Different Product Types
The type of product you’re applying—whether seeds, fertilizer, or another lawn care product—can influence your spreader settings. For instance, Lesco fertilizers typically require a rotary spreader. Refer to the Lesco spreader chart for suggested settings based on your product.
Walking Speed and Spreader Angle
Your walking pace and the angle of your spreader can influence distribution. A consistent pace is crucial; walk too fast, and you might miss spots, too slow, and you risk over-application. Here’s a quick reference table:
| Walking Speed | Suggested Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Slow | Reduce the setting slightly to prevent over-application. |
| Moderate | Use the manufacturer-recommended setting. |
| Fast | Increase the setting slightly to ensure full coverage. |
Using Consistent Patterns
Applying materials uniformly can be achieved by following a pattern. Overlap your passes slightly to ensure even coverage, just as you would with a mower. Consider making passes in perpendicular directions for thorough distribution, especially in larger areas.
Account for Wind Conditions
You might not always think about the wind, but it can significantly affect the dispersal of granular products. Choose calm days for spreading to maintain control and precision.
Cleaning After Use
Post-application care is as essential as the spreading itself. Regular cleaning ensures your Lesco spreader is free from residual material, which can affect future applications and prolong the life of the equipment.
By adhering to these best practices, you’re well on your way to mastering the use of your Lesco spreader for consistent and healthy lawn care results
Lesco Spreader Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance and care are vital to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your Lesco spreader. Regular upkeep not only helps you achieve the best results in your lawn care routine but also saves you time and money in the long run.
Routine Cleaning and Lubrication of Lesco Spreader
Keeping your Lesco spreader clean is essential for its optimal performance. Post-usage, clean off any product residue using a damp cloth, paying special attention to the hopper and mechanisms where fertilizers or products might build up.
- Weekly Cleaning: Rinse the spreader with water to remove any leftover material.
- Lubrication: Apply lubricant to the wheels and other moving parts to ensure smooth operation.
Inspection Checklist
Regular inspections can catch potential issues before they become big problems. Here’s a quick checklist:
| Component | What to Look For | Maintenance Action |
|---|---|---|
| Hopper | Cracks or clogs | Clear blockages and repair any damage |
| Lever and Dial | Stickiness or wear | Adjust tension and lubricate |
| Wheels | Resistance or wobbling | Tighten bolts and inspect for damage |
Storing Your Spreader
Proper storage prolongs the life of your Lesco spreader, especially during off-seasons:
- Dry Environment: Store in a dry location to prevent rust or corrosion.
- Protective Cover: Use a cover to shield against dust and moisture.
Regular Calibration Checks
A well-maintained spreader should still undergo calibration checks annually, as covered in the calibration section of this guide. Ensuring precise settings will lead to better application efficiency and product savings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lesco Spreaders
Why is My Lesco Spreader Leaking Fertilizer?
Seeing fertilizer dropping even when the lever is off can be concerning. This could be due to improper calibration or a mechanical fault in the control system. Ensure that the dial and lever mechanism are properly aligned and consider revisiting the calibration section for detailed guidance on adjustments.
How Can I Ensure I’m Using the Correct Settings?
Using the correct spreader settings is crucial for effective lawn care. Start by consulting the Lesco Spreader Settings Chart provided in your manual or available online. These settings are tailored to specific products, allowing for optimal distribution. Always double-check product labels for any specific spreader settings.
What Should I Do If My Spreader Isn’t Dispensing Evenly?
An uneven spread can be frustrating and may lead to uneven lawn treatment. Begin by examining the spreader’s distribution pattern. Check for any clogs or worn-out parts that might be affecting the flow. Routine maintenance and calibration can help in preventing these issues.
Can I Use Lesco Spreaders with Non-Lesco Products?
While Lesco spreaders are designed for Lesco products, they can still be effective with similar products from other brands. It’s essential to follow the product-specific recommendations and possibly adjust spreader settings using trial and error to find an optimal setting.
How Often Should I Calibrate My Lesco Spreader?
For best results, yearly calibration is recommended, or more frequently if you notice inconsistencies in the spread pattern. Refer to the detailed calibration process outlined earlier in this article for guidance.
Who Should I Contact for Technical Support?
If you experience persistent issues with your Lesco spreader, reaching out to a SiteOne branch can provide you with expert advice. They offer technical support and can assist you with troubleshooting any mechanical problems you encounter.
Final Words
Mastering your Lesco spreader settings is a crucial step in effective lawn care management. By paying attention to the details such as calibration, routine maintenance, and seasonal adjustments, you are not only enhancing your landscaping efforts but also preventing potential issues like product waste, uneven fertilization, or turf damage. Remember, each lawn is unique, and while guides and charts provide a solid starting point, personal observations and adjustments can make all the difference.
Don’t hesitate to explore Lesco’s range of lawn care products and tools for more tailored solutions. Armed with the right knowledge and tools, you can maintain a lush and healthy lawn, significantly enhancing your green space while maximizing your product efficiency and investment. Here’s to a successful lawn care journey with your Lesco spreader!