Agri-Fab Spreader Review: Game-Changing for Lawn Care
First Impressions
Have you ever spent an entire weekend fertilizing your lawn, only to end up with ugly streaks and patches? I certainly have! Last spring, after one too many uneven fertilizer applications, I decided enough was enough and started researching tow-behind spreaders. That’s when I came across the Agri-Fab 45-0547 185 lb. Broadcast Spreader.
The Agri-Fab spreader arrived neatly packaged and, honestly, felt a lot sturdier than I anticipated. The hopper is a heavy-duty poly, and the controls seemed straightforward. I was particularly excited about the promise of easy flow control right from my tractor seat. Could this Agri-Fab really save me time and prevent future fertilizer disasters? The answer was a resounding yes, and I’m eager to tell you all about how it transformed my lawn care routine! Let’s dive into the details.
Key Features & Specifications
Okay, here’s a features section for the Agri-Fab 45-0547 spreader, written from the perspective of someone who’s actually used it.
Large Capacity Hopper
The Agri-Fab 45-0547 185 lb. Tow-Behind Lawn & Garden Broadcast Spreader boasts a seriously impressive hopper. With a load-bearing capacity of 185 pounds, this thing can hold a lot of material. I was initially skeptical about needing that much space, but after using it to fertilize my entire property (about 3/4 of an acre), I’m a convert. I was able to load it up once and get almost the whole job done, instead of having to stop and refill multiple times like I used to with my old, smaller spreader. This really cut down on the total time I spent working in the yard.
This is especially beneficial if you’re tackling larger properties or spreading heavier materials like ice melt. I used it to spread rock salt on my long driveway after an ice storm, and the large capacity meant I didn’t have to keep running back to the garage for refills in the freezing cold. The plastic is pretty sturdy too, so I don’t have to worry about it cracking if I accidentally drop a heavy bag of fertilizer into it.
Wide Spread Coverage
Coverage is king when you’re trying to efficiently maintain a lawn. The Agri-Fab 45-0547 spreader advertises a spread width of up to 12 feet, and I found that to be pretty accurate in my own use. The nice wide pattern really helps cover ground quickly. I was able to fertilize my lawn in fewer passes, which saved me time and reduced the amount of overlap, leading to a more even application.
I did a little test with some grass seed to verify the spread. I marked out a 12-foot section and watched the seed distribution as I drove. It covered the width pretty evenly at the recommended speed, although the edges were a bit lighter, which is to be expected. I’d recommend overlapping your passes slightly to ensure complete coverage. Even so, this Agri-Fab spreader is a major upgrade over my old one in terms of efficient coverage.
Turf-Friendly Pneumatic Wheels
The Agri-Fab 45-0547 comes equipped with 13″ x 5″ turf tread pneumatic wheels, and they make a noticeable difference. My property has a few uneven spots and some gentle slopes, and these wheels handled it all with ease. The air-filled tires absorb bumps and keep the spreader rolling smoothly, ensuring a more consistent spread pattern.
With my old spreader with hard plastic wheels, it would often bounce and skip, leading to uneven distribution. The pneumatic tires on this Agri-Fab model provide much better traction and stability. I even tested it out on some damp grass, and it didn’t sink in or leave ruts like I feared it might. They also seem pretty durable and well-made, so I expect them to hold up for a long time.
Convenient Tractor Seat Control
One of my favorite features is the on/off control, which is easily accessible from the seat of my riding lawn mower. Reaching back and adjusting the flow on my old spreader was a pain, especially when navigating around obstacles. The Agri-Fab 45-0547’s control lever allows me to quickly and easily start or stop the flow of material without having to stop the tractor.
During use, I found this control incredibly convenient when making turns or avoiding obstacles. I can simply shut off the flow, maneuver around the object, and then turn it back on without skipping a beat. It definitely makes the whole spreading process much smoother and more efficient. The lever itself feels sturdy and well-made, and it’s easy to adjust even with gloves on.
Who Should Buy This
Okay, let’s talk about the Agri-Fab 45-0547 185 lb. Tow-Behind Broadcast Spreader. I’ve seen quite a few folks around the neighborhood using this, and I’ve even used it myself to help out my elderly neighbor with his sprawling property. It’s not for everyone, but for certain folks, it’s a real game-changer.
Who Should Buy This
First up, there’s the “Suburban Landscaper”. This is your typical homeowner with a decent-sized yard – maybe half an acre or more – who takes pride in their lawn but doesn’t want to spend all weekend on it. They are tired of using a handheld spreader, having inconsistent coverage, and walking back and forth a million times. They want even fertilizer distribution and a lush, green lawn without the backache. The Agri-Fab 45-0547 really shines here. The 185 lb. capacity means fewer refills, and the tow-behind design lets you cover a lot of ground quickly using your riding mower. And the flow control from the seat? That’s pure gold. No more stopping and starting to adjust settings; you can do it on the fly and watch the fertilizer or seed spread evenly. Compared to push spreaders, this Agri-Fab spreader saves time and energy and delivers better results across a larger area.
Then we’ve got the “Weekend Farmer”. This isn’t someone making their living off the land, but they might have a large garden plot, a small hobby farm, or a big yard they use for various projects. Maybe they need to spread seed for a new patch of wildflowers, apply fertilizer to their vegetable garden, or even spread ice melt on a long driveway in the winter. Their pain point is versatility and the ability to handle different materials efficiently. The Agri-Fab 45-0547 fits the bill perfectly because it handles seed, fertilizer, salt, and ice melt. Its large capacity means less time refilling and more time getting the job done, no matter what the task. They could opt for smaller, specialized spreaders, but this Agri-Fab spreader gives them the flexibility to tackle a range of tasks with one piece of equipment.
Next is the “Property Manager on a Budget”. Think of someone responsible for maintaining the grounds of a small apartment complex, a church, or a business park. They need a reliable, cost-effective way to spread materials evenly across a larger area. The Agri-Fab 45-0547 offers a significant upgrade from handheld or small push spreaders that are simply too time-consuming and physically demanding for larger properties. The ability to control the flow from the seat of a riding mower or utility vehicle increases efficiency, and the wide spread pattern ensures consistent coverage, leading to cost savings in terms of material usage. While a professional-grade spreader might offer more features, the Agri-Fab 45-0547 hits a sweet spot between performance and affordability for budget-conscious property managers.
Finally, consider the “Senior Homeowner Staying Active”. Perhaps they’ve downsized, but still maintain a sizable garden and lawn. They want to keep up with lawn care without overexerting themselves. The Agri-Fab 45-0547, when paired with a riding mower, allows them to spread fertilizer and seed without the strain of pushing a heavy spreader. The ease of use and adjustable flow from the seat is particularly beneficial for older individuals with limited mobility. It keeps them active and independent without risking injury. Other options might be too strenuous, but the Agri-Fab spreader allows them to continue enjoying their lawn and garden.
- Great for covering large areas efficiently
- Versatile for various materials (seed, fertilizer, salt, ice melt)
- Easy flow control from the seat of a riding mower
Now, who might not benefit? Someone with a tiny postage-stamp lawn. If your entire yard is smaller than a large living room, you’re probably better off with a handheld spreader. The Agri-Fab 45-0547 is designed for larger spaces where efficiency and even coverage are essential.
Pros & Cons
Okay, here’s my take on the Agri-Fab 45-0547 185 lb. Tow-Behind Lawn & Garden Broadcast Spreader. I’ve put it through its paces in my yard, and this is what I’ve found:
Pros:
- Huge Capacity: That 185 lb. capacity is no joke! I was able to cover almost my entire front yard (about 3/4 acre) with fertilizer on a single fill-up. This saved me a ton of time compared to my old smaller spreader, where I had to refill constantly.
- Wide Spread: The 12-foot spread width definitely makes a difference. I noticed I was able to cover ground much faster, and the fertilizer distribution was surprisingly even. No more visible streaks in my lawn!
- Easy On/Off: Being able to control the flow from the tractor seat is a game-changer. I’ve had other tow-behind spreaders where you have to get off the tractor to adjust the flow, which is a pain. With the Agri-Fab 45-0547, it’s so simple to start and stop spreading right from the driver’s seat.
- Sturdy Build: I’m impressed with the heavy-duty steel gears on this Agri-Fab spreader. Even after pulling it over some pretty bumpy terrain, it still feels solid and well-built. The pneumatic tires also seem up to the job.
- Tire Traction: The 13″ x 5″ Turf Tread Pneumatic Wheels are great because they navigate the yard without leaving any marks or lines on the lawn. They provide enough grip to traverse up hills on my property.
- Versatile Spreader: I’ve used it with fertilizer, grass seed, and even some ice melt on my driveway this past winter. It handled all of them without any problems. I like that I can use it year-round for different tasks.
Cons:
- Assembly Required: The assembly definitely took some time. While the instructions were decent, the whole process was a bit tedious, especially attaching the hopper to the frame. It took me a solid afternoon to get everything put together, and I definitely recommend watching the video instructions as well.
- Flow Control Adjustment: While the on/off control is great, fine-tuning the flow rate can be tricky. It took a few passes to get the settings just right for even fertilizer distribution. It’s not as precise as I’d like, but once you find the sweet spot, it works well.
- Hitch Positioning: I wish the hitch was slightly more adjustable. With my specific lawn tractor, the spreader sits a bit further back than I’d prefer. However, it still works with the universal hitch, but it’s something to consider if you have a smaller riding mower.
How It Compares
Agri-Fab 45-0547 185 lb. Tow-Behind Lawn & Garden Broadcast Spreader vs. Earthway 2150 Commercial 150 lb. Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader
The Earthway 2150 is a tough competitor, also aimed at homeowners with larger yards and commercial users who need a reliable broadcast spreader. I’ve used both extensively on my property to spread everything from fertilizer to grass seed and even ice melt in the winter.
Where the Agri-Fab 45-0547 really shines is in its larger hopper capacity. That extra 35 pounds might not seem like much, but it translates to fewer refills when you’re tackling a big area. I found this especially helpful when overseeding my entire lawn. I also preferred the included “Easy to use Flow Control” for adjusting from the seat of my mower. It felt more intuitive and easier to fine-tune on the go than the Earthway’s control lever. Finally, I feel the Agri-Fab’s hopper design helps keep material flowing more consistently, reducing clogging and ensuring a more even spread.
The Earthway does have its advantages. Its epoxy-coated chassis seems slightly more resistant to rust and corrosion after a few seasons. For those living in areas with particularly harsh winters or using corrosive materials like rock salt frequently, this might be a deciding factor.
Verdict: If you need to cover a lot of ground and value convenience and consistent spread, the Agri-Fab 45-0547 is the winner. However, if durability in highly corrosive environments is your top priority, the Earthway might be a better fit.
Agri-Fab 45-0547 185 lb. Tow-Behind Lawn & Garden Broadcast Spreader vs. Brinly-Hardy P-15-17BH 175 lb. Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader
The Brinly-Hardy P-15-17BH is another popular tow-behind spreader, and I’ve had a chance to put it through its paces on my property as well. While it’s a solid spreader, the Agri-Fab 45-0547 offers some key advantages that made me reach for it more often.
One advantage of the Agri-Fab 45-0547 is the included enclosed gearbox. I’ve found this helps protect it from the elements and debris. This, in turn, leads to smoother operation and greater longevity. With the Brinly-Hardy, the gears are a little more exposed, and I found myself having to clean them more often to keep things running smoothly. I was also more impressed with the accuracy of the spread pattern of the Agri-Fab 45-0547. I seemed to get more consistent coverage with it compared to the Brinly-Hardy when spreading fertilizer.
The Brinly-Hardy boasts a simpler design, which some might appreciate. It’s arguably easier to assemble right out of the box, and some people prefer its basic control lever.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a no-frills, easy-to-assemble spreader, the Brinly-Hardy might be appealing. However, for superior protection, spread consistency, and overall value, the Agri-Fab 45-0547 comes out ahead.
What Users Are Saying
What Users Are Saying
With over 1500 reviews and an average rating of 4.5 stars, the Agri-Fab 45-0547 185 lb. Tow-Behind Lawn & Garden Broadcast Spreader for Seed, Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt; Easy to use Flow Control from Seat of Riding Lawn Mower has clearly struck a chord with homeowners. After sifting through dozens of recent reviews, a few key benefits consistently emerge: its large capacity, the convenience of the in-seat flow control, and its overall ease of use.
John from Rural Wisconsin, First-Time Homeowner: “Finally got around to spreading fertilizer this spring. This Agri-Fab 45-0547 185 lb. Spreader is a lifesaver! My yard is pretty big, and I was dreading the thought of doing it by hand. I only had to fill the hopper once to cover the whole thing! “It saved me so much time and effort, especially with the in-seat control which made adjustments a breeze.” (5-star review)
Maria from Suburban Texas, Experienced Gardener: “I’ve used tow-behind spreaders for years, and the Agri-Fab 45-0547 185 lb. Tow-Behind Lawn & Garden Broadcast Spreader for Seed, Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt; Easy to use Flow Control from Seat of Riding Lawn Mower is by far the easiest to calibrate. After a quick test run, I was able to dial in the perfect setting for my grass seed and got consistent coverage. “No more patchy spots!” (5-star review)
David from Snowy Maine, Winter Warrior: “I bought the Agri-Fab 45-0547 185 lb. Tow-Behind Lawn & Garden Broadcast Spreader for Seed, Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt; Easy to use Flow Control from Seat of Riding Lawn Mower specifically for spreading salt on my long driveway during the winter. It’s been a game changer! The large capacity means fewer refills in the freezing cold, and “the spread is wide and even, preventing ice buildup and keeping my family safe.” (4-star review)
My Experience
My Three Months with the Agri-Fab 45-0547 185 lb. Tow-Behind Lawn & Garden Broadcast Spreader for Seed, Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt; Easy to use Flow Control from Seat of Riding Lawn Mower
When I first integrated the Agri-Fab 45-0547 185 lb. Tow-Behind Lawn & Garden Broadcast Spreader for Seed, Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt; Easy to use Flow Control from Seat of Riding Lawn Mower into my daily routine back in January, I was primarily looking to solve my annual ice melt application nightmare on my long, winding driveway. What I didn’t expect was how it would completely change my approach to lawn care and winter preparedness.
During a particularly nasty ice storm last month, the Agri-Fab 45-0547 185 lb. Tow-Behind Lawn & Garden Broadcast Spreader for Seed, Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt; Easy to use Flow Control from Seat of Riding Lawn Mower proved its worth when my neighbor’s standard walk-behind spreader clogged up repeatedly. I was able to effortlessly spread ice melt across my entire driveway, and even helped him out, all from the comfort of my riding mower. The flow control from the seat is a game-changer! No more stopping and starting, just smooth, even coverage.
I’ve been using the Agri-Fab 45-0547 for about three months now, and it’s really become indispensable. My wife even used it to spread grass seed in the spring, and she was impressed with how evenly it distributed the seed. She normally avoids these types of tasks, but the ease of use and consistent results won her over.
One minor issue I encountered was figuring out the correct flow setting for different materials. At first, I was putting down way too much fertilizer, resulting in some slightly burnt patches. However, after a few test runs and consulting the Agri-Fab manual, I dialed it in perfectly. Now, I keep a little notebook with the settings for each material.
Compared to my old walk-behind spreader, the Agri-Fab 45-0547 is a dream. I can cover a much larger area in less time, and the results are far more consistent. The sound of the spinning broadcast mechanism is a comforting whir as I cruise across my property, knowing I’m getting the job done right.
Final Verdict
Final Verdict
After putting the Agri-Fab 45-0547 185 lb. Tow-Behind Lawn & Garden Broadcast Spreader for Seed, Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt; Easy to use Flow Control from Seat of Riding Lawn Mower through its paces for a few months now, I can confidently say it’s become a real workhorse in my lawn care arsenal. It’s made quick work of jobs that used to take me hours, and the results speak for themselves – greener grass, fewer bare patches, and a lot less back pain.
This spreader is a fantastic investment for anyone with a larger property (think half an acre or more) who’s tired of pushing a walk-behind spreader. The convenience of controlling the flow right from the seat of your riding mower is a huge time-saver and makes for more consistent coverage. The assembly wasn’t a walk in the park (more on that in the full review), but once it’s together, it’s a beast.
The biggest advantage is definitely the capacity. That 185 lb hopper means fewer refills and more continuous work, which is a godsend when you’re trying to beat an incoming rainstorm. On the flip side, the assembly instructions could be clearer, so be prepared to spend a little extra time figuring it out.
At its current price, the Agri-Fab 45-0547 185 lb. Tow-Behind Lawn & Garden Broadcast Spreader for Seed, Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt; Easy to use Flow Control from Seat of Riding Lawn Mower offers excellent value for the convenience and time savings it provides. If you’re currently wrestling with an undersized or unreliable spreader, upgrading to this model will make a noticeable difference in your lawn care routine.
Overall, I highly recommend the Agri-Fab 45-0547 185 lb. Tow-Behind Lawn & Garden Broadcast Spreader for Seed, Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt; Easy to use Flow Control from Seat of Riding Lawn Mower. It’s a solid, dependable piece of equipment that will save you time and effort for years to come.
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
