Are you looking to evenly distribute seed, fertilizer, or ice melt across your lawn or driveway? The Lesco 50 lb. Spreader is a reliable tool designed to help you achieve just that. However, to ensure optimal performance and even coverage, it's crucial to understand and adjust the spreader settings correctly. This article will guide you through the process, helping you make the most of your Lesco spreader.
Understanding Your Lesco 50 lb. Spreader
Before delving into the settings, let's familiarize ourselves with the Lesco 50 lb. Spreader. This push-type spreader features a durable, rust-resistant poly hopper that can hold up to 50 pounds of material. It also boasts an 18-inch spread pattern, making it suitable for various applications, from seeding your lawn to spreading salt on your driveway.
Lesco Spreader Settings: The Basics
The Lesco 50 lb. Spreader has two main settings: the flow rate and the spread pattern. The flow rate determines how much material the spreader releases per push, while the spread pattern dictates the width of the spread. Understanding and adjusting these settings will help you achieve even coverage and avoid over- or under-application.

Flow Rate Settings
The flow rate is controlled by the lever on the handle of the spreader. The lever has three settings: 'Off', 'Caliper', and 'Fertilizer/Salt'. Here's what each setting does:
- 'Off': This setting stops the flow of material from the hopper.
- 'Caliper' (or 'Seed'): This setting is ideal for applying seeds. It releases a small amount of material per push, ensuring even distribution and preventing waste.
- 'Fertilizer/Salt' (or 'Ice Melt'): This setting is designed for spreading fertilizers, ice melt, or other granular materials. It releases a larger amount of material per push, suitable for covering larger areas.
Spread Pattern Settings
The spread pattern is controlled by the dial on the hopper of the spreader. This dial adjusts the opening of the hopper, altering the spread pattern. Here's how to use it:
- For seeding: Close the dial to create a narrow spread pattern. This setting is ideal for applying seed to small areas or for spot treatments.
- For fertilizing or spreading ice melt: Open the dial to create a wider spread pattern. This setting is suitable for covering larger areas quickly and efficiently.
Adjusting Your Lesco Spreader Settings
To adjust your Lesco spreader settings, follow these steps:
- Fill the hopper with the appropriate material.
- Set the flow rate lever to the desired setting based on the material you're spreading.
- Adjust the spread pattern dial to the desired setting based on the area you're covering.
- Push the spreader across the area you want to cover. Make sure to overlap your passes slightly to ensure even coverage.
- After each use, clean the spreader to prevent material buildup and ensure its longevity.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While the Lesco 50 lb. Spreader is designed for ease of use, you may encounter some common issues. Here are a few solutions:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Material isn't spreading evenly. | Check that the hopper opening is clear and that the material isn't clumped. You may need to break up clumps or shake the hopper to redistribute the material. |
| The spreader isn't releasing any material. | Check that the flow rate lever is in the correct position. If it's still not working, the spreader may need to be cleaned or the gears may need to be lubricated. |
Remember, the key to successful spreading is practice and patience. It may take a few tries to get the settings just right, but with a little trial and error, you'll be a Lesco spreader pro in no time.