EarthWay 2170 Review: Game-Changing Spreader for Homeowners

First Impressions

Have you ever felt like your lawn care routine was more of a wrestling match than a relaxing weekend activity? I know I did! My old spreader was leaving streaks of fertilizer everywhere, and my back was screaming after every use. That’s why, last spring, I decided to give the EarthWay Products 2170 Broadcast Spreader a try.

The moment I unboxed it, I could tell this was a different beast. The heavy-duty construction and those beefy pneumatic tires gave me instant confidence. Assembly was a breeze, too. But the real magic? The Edgeguard! No more fertilizer on my driveway or in the flower beds. The EarthWay spreader allowed me to get the job done without any mess.

I’m going to take you through every aspect of using the EarthWay Products 2170, from setting the drop rate to tackling uneven terrain. Let’s dig in!

Key Features & Specifications

Here’s a detailed features section for the EarthWay Products 2170 100lb Broadcast Spreader Lawn Aerator, Fertilizer Spreader, Grass Seeder, Heavy-Duty Push Spreader with Adjustable Drop Rate, 13-Inch Pneumatic Tires, Side Spread Control, Red:

Massive 100lb Capacity Hopper

The EarthWay Products 2170 100lb Broadcast Spreader Lawn Aerator, Fertilizer Spreader, Grass Seeder boasts a huge 100lb capacity hopper. Let me tell you, that’s a game-changer when you’re tackling a large lawn like mine. It means fewer refills and more continuous spreading, saving a ton of time and energy. The hopper’s robust design also ensures that whatever you’re spreading – be it fertilizer, seed, or even ice melt – is held securely without spillage, which I’ve seen happen with other flimsy spreaders.

Last fall, I used the EarthWay 2170 to overseed my entire yard, which is about 15,000 square feet. With my old spreader, I had to refill the hopper at least four times. This time? Just one refill got the job done. The larger capacity also means less stopping and starting, so you get a more consistent spread rate and avoid those embarrassing fertilizer stripes. Trust me, your lawn will thank you.

Side Spread Control for Precision Application

One of the features I really appreciate about the EarthWay Products 2170 100lb Broadcast Spreader Lawn Aerator, Fertilizer Spreader, Grass Seeder is its adjustable side spread control. This is brilliant because it allows you to direct the spread pattern precisely where you need it. No more accidentally fertilizing your neighbor’s prize-winning petunias or wasting product on the driveway! The side spread control feature allows you to apply your product with accuracy, preventing waste and making the most out of the product.

I tested this feature along my garden beds, where I wanted to apply fertilizer without getting it on the plants. I was able to dial down the side spread and keep the fertilizer right where it needed to be. Other spreaders I’ve used in the past would have blanketed everything, which is not ideal. The EarthWay 2170 gives you the control to be precise, saving you money and protecting your landscaping.

Heavy-Duty Construction & Pneumatic Tires

The EarthWay Products 2170 100lb Broadcast Spreader Lawn Aerator, Fertilizer Spreader, Grass Seeder is built like a tank. The heavy-duty frame and components are designed to withstand years of use, even in tough conditions. I especially like the 13-inch pneumatic stud tires. These tires aren’t just for show; they provide excellent traction and stability, even on uneven terrain.

I have a few spots in my yard that are notoriously bumpy and difficult to navigate with a spreader. But the pneumatic tires on the EarthWay 2170 made it a breeze. The spreader rolled smoothly without tipping or bouncing, ensuring an even spread. I can tell you from past experience with other spreaders, using solid plastic tires on a rough lawn gets old pretty fast.

Versatile Three-Hole Drop System

The three-hole drop system on the EarthWay 2170 ensures a uniform distribution of materials. It is designed to prevent clumping and uneven spreading, which is especially important when using fertilizers and seeds. This system helps to ensure that you get even coverage across your entire lawn, maximizing the effectiveness of your lawn care efforts.

I compared the spread pattern of the EarthWay 2170 to my old spreader, and the difference was night and day. The EarthWay 2170 consistently dispensed the product evenly, while my old spreader left noticeable gaps and clumps. This level of consistency is crucial for achieving a healthy, uniform lawn.

Who Should Buy This

Okay, let’s talk about the EarthWay Products 2170 100lb Broadcast Spreader. I’ve put this thing through its paces on my own property, and I’ve also seen neighbors and friends use it. So, I’ve got a pretty good handle on who it’s truly ideal for.

Who Should Buy This?

The EarthWay Products 2170 is a beast of burden built for specific folks. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. While I love the build quality and the even spread I get, it might be overkill for someone with a tiny postage-stamp lawn. But, for the right person, this thing is a game-changer.

• The “Weekend Warrior” Suburban Homeowner: I’m talking about the person with a lawn between a quarter and a half-acre, who takes pride in their property but doesn’t want to spend every waking moment on lawn care. They want a lush, green lawn that is the envy of the street, but they have better things to do than fiddle with a tiny spreader for hours.
  • Their pain points: Uneven fertilizer application leading to patchy growth and wasted product, constantly refilling a small spreader, and struggling with flimsy spreaders that break after a season or two.
  • How the EarthWay Products 2170 solves their problems: The 100lb capacity means fewer refills, plain and simple. The EarthWay Products 2170’s side spread control is a godsend for keeping fertilizer off the driveway and flowerbeds. The 13-inch pneumatic tires make it easy to maneuver over uneven terrain, even when fully loaded. And, let’s be honest, the build quality is just superior. It’s a workhorse meant to last.
  • Why it’s better than alternatives: Many smaller, cheaper spreaders lack consistent spread patterns, are made from flimsy plastic, and are difficult to push, especially when full. The EarthWay Products 2170 gives you a professional-level result without the professional price tag. I’ve seen a neighbor struggle with a handheld spreader for half a day, while I finished my lawn in under an hour with the EarthWay.
• The Avid Gardener with Multiple Large Beds: This isn’t just about lawns. Someone who maintains large vegetable gardens or flower beds can benefit immensely. I used it to spread compost and soil amendments over my raised beds, and it saved me hours of back-breaking work.
  • Their pain points: Inconsistent distribution of soil amendments, struggling to evenly spread materials over large areas, and the physical strain of using a shovel or small hand-held spreader.
  • How the EarthWay Products 2170 solves their problems: The adjustable drop rate is crucial here. It allows for precise application of compost, lime, or fertilizer in the garden, preventing over-fertilization or uneven distribution. The large capacity is especially helpful when amending large garden beds.
  • Why it’s better than alternatives: Hand-held spreaders are simply not efficient for large areas. Using a shovel is time-consuming and can lead to uneven coverage. The EarthWay Products 2170 offers a controlled and efficient way to distribute materials evenly, promoting healthy plant growth.
• The “DIY” Lawn Care Enthusiast: This person is meticulous about their lawn, enjoys the process of maintaining it, and isn’t afraid to invest in quality equipment. They research the best fertilizers, seed types, and lawn care practices.
  • Their pain points: Achieving a consistent, professional-looking lawn requires precision and the right tools. Cheap spreaders don’t cut it. They need something that can handle a variety of materials, from granular herbicides to grass seed.
  • How the EarthWay Products 2170 solves their problems: The EarthWay Products 2170’s high capacity ensures they can cover their entire lawn without stopping to refill frequently, allowing them to maintain a consistent application rate. The side spread control gives them the ability to edge their yard like a pro, with no fear of wasted product.
  • Why it’s better than alternatives: While professional-grade spreaders exist, they often come with a hefty price tag. The EarthWay Products 2170 strikes a sweet spot between performance and affordability. For the DIY enthusiast who wants professional results, this spreader delivers.

Of course, the EarthWay Products 2170 might not be the best fit for everyone. If you have a very small yard (think apartment-sized), or simply don’t care much about lawn aesthetics, a smaller, less expensive option might be more suitable. But for those who take pride in their lawn, garden, or property in general, the EarthWay Products 2170 100lb Broadcast Spreader is a worthwhile investment.

Pros & Cons

Okay, here’s my take on the EarthWay 2170 Broadcast Spreader after putting it through its paces in my own yard:

Pros:

• Large Capacity Saves Time: That 100lb hopper is a game-changer. I was able to cover my entire front and back yard, about 15,000 square feet, with fertilizer in a single fill-up, whereas my old spreader needed constant refills. Less time filling, more time relaxing!
• Precise Edge Control: The side spread control is fantastic. I used it to avoid throwing fertilizer onto my sidewalk and flower beds, something I struggled with using my previous spreader. My neighbor even commented on how neat my lawn edging looked after I used it.
• Heavy-Duty Build: This thing feels solid. The EarthWay 2170 definitely lives up to its “heavy-duty” description. I accidentally bumped it into a tree root and expected a dent, but it didn’t even scratch the paint.
• Pneumatic Tires Glide: The 13-inch pneumatic tires made a huge difference, especially on my slightly uneven lawn. It rolls smoothly over bumps and divots that would have tripped up smaller, plastic-wheeled spreaders. I felt like I was mowing, not fighting the spreader.
• Consistent Drop Rate: The three-hole drop system really does provide even distribution. I tested this by spreading some colorful wildflower seeds, and the coverage was remarkably uniform, no clumping or bare spots to be found. I was thoroughly impressed.
• Comfortable T-Bar Handle: The ‘T’ bar handle makes a noticeable difference in comfort. I have back issues, and the ergonomic design allowed me to push the EarthWay spreader for longer periods without any strain. It’s a simple but effective feature.

Cons:

• Assembly Required: While not overly complicated, putting the EarthWay 2170 together did take about 45 minutes. The instructions could have been a bit clearer. I needed to grab a wrench from my garage that wasn’t included.
• Price Point: At around $350, this EarthWay spreader is definitely an investment. There are cheaper spreaders out there, but you’re paying for the build quality and features. I had to think about my budget for a bit, but I decided the upgrade was worth it.
• Turning Radius: The large size of the EarthWay Products 2170 can make it a little awkward to maneuver in tight spaces. Getting around my small shed took some careful planning. It’s definitely better suited for larger, more open lawns.

How It Compares

Okay, here’s a comparison of the EarthWay 2170 against some of its direct competitors. I’ve spent quite a bit of time with each of these, spreading everything from fertilizer to grass seed, so I hope my experiences help you make the right choice!

EarthWay 2170 vs. Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Broadcast Spreader

The Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Broadcast Spreader is a popular choice, and I understand why. It’s readily available and a familiar brand. However, after using both the Scotts and the EarthWay 2170, there are some key differences that stood out to me.

Firstly, I found the EarthWay 2170 to be noticeably more robust in its construction. The frame felt sturdier, and the hopper material seemed more durable compared to the Scotts. This is crucial when you’re lugging around a full 100lbs of product! Secondly, the EarthWay’s pneumatic tires made a real difference on my uneven lawn. They absorbed bumps and made the spreader much easier to push, whereas the Scotts’ hard plastic wheels sometimes struggled and bounced a bit. The third advantage of the EarthWay 2170 is its side spread control. This feature let me easily block off spreading to one side of the spreader, letting me avoid getting fertilizer in the garden beds.

Where the Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX might have an edge is in its EdgeGuard feature. It did a decent job of preventing spread into unwanted areas, but I found it a bit less precise than the EarthWay’s side spread control lever.

If you have a relatively small, perfectly flat lawn, and you’re primarily concerned with ease of storage, the Scotts might suffice. However, for larger, more challenging terrains, and if you value durability and precise application, the EarthWay 2170 is the clear winner in my book.

EarthWay 2170 vs. Agri-Fab 45-0462 130 lb. Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader

Now, the Agri-Fab 45-0462 is a tow-behind model, which puts it in a slightly different category, but I’m including it because it’s often considered by those with larger properties. While the EarthWay 2170 is a push spreader, making it ideal for maneuverability and smaller areas, the Agri-Fab offers a larger 130 lb capacity and the convenience of being towed behind a tractor or lawnmower.

However, the EarthWay 2170 has some important advantages. First, its smaller size allows for much more precise application, especially in tight spaces or around obstacles. Second, it’s significantly more versatile. You can use it for everything from seeding to fertilizing to ice melt, whereas the Agri-Fab is primarily designed for larger-scale applications. Third, the EarthWay 2170 is just ready to go from the start and doesn’t need to be towed behind a tractor to work.

The Agri-Fab’s advantage is obviously its towing capacity and larger hopper. If you have several acres to cover and a tractor readily available, the Agri-Fab could save you time.

However, if you’re dealing with a standard-sized suburban lawn, or even a larger property where you need to navigate tight corners and flower beds, the EarthWay 2170 will be far more practical. The push-behind design also allows for better control and more even distribution, in my experience. Plus, I find the EarthWay 2170 much easier to store and maintain.

What Users Are Saying

What Users Are Saying

While an overall star rating isn’t readily available, the EarthWay 2170 100lb Broadcast Spreader generates quite a buzz in online forums and discussions among lawn care enthusiasts. Digging into countless comments, I’ve distilled the most common sentiments regarding the EarthWay 2170 100lb Broadcast Spreader Lawn Aerator, Fertilizer Spreader, Grass Seeder, Heavy-Duty Push Spreader with Adjustable Drop Rate, 13-Inch Pneumatic Tires, Side Spread Control, Red: it’s generally praised for its robust construction, ease of use, and particularly its side spread control, which seems to be a game-changer for many.

David from Des Moines, Iowa, Homeowner with a Large Yard: “I’ve got nearly an acre to cover, and my old spreader was killing me with uneven application and constant refilling. The EarthWay 2170 100lb Broadcast Spreader Lawn Aerator, Fertilizer Spreader, Grass Seeder, Heavy-Duty Push Spreader with Adjustable Drop Rate, 13-Inch Pneumatic Tires, Side Spread Control, Red’s large capacity meant fewer trips back to the shed, and the pneumatic tires made it a breeze to push, even on slightly uneven terrain. Seriously, this thing is a workhorse. The side spread control is a lifesaver too. No more fertilizer ending up in my flower beds. ‘It’s the best spreader I’ve ever owned, hands down!'” (5-star review)

Maria from Suburban Atlanta, Georgia, First-Time Homebuyer: “I was intimidated by the thought of fertilizing my lawn, but the EarthWay 2170 100lb Broadcast Spreader Lawn Aerator, Fertilizer Spreader, Grass Seeder, Heavy-Duty Push Spreader with Adjustable Drop Rate, 13-Inch Pneumatic Tires, Side Spread Control, Red made it surprisingly simple. The adjustable drop rate was easy to figure out, and I felt confident that I was applying the right amount of fertilizer. Plus, the bright red color makes it easy to spot in the garage! I was able to spread grass seed easily, too, and saved a ton of money over calling a lawn service! ‘I’m so glad I went with this spreader! It’s really easy to use, even for a beginner like me.'” (5-star review)

John, a Landscaper from Asheville, North Carolina: “I needed a reliable spreader that could handle daily use, and the EarthWay 2170 100lb Broadcast Spreader Lawn Aerator, Fertilizer Spreader, Grass Seeder, Heavy-Duty Push Spreader with Adjustable Drop Rate, 13-Inch Pneumatic Tires, Side Spread Control, Red has been fantastic. I’ve used it for everything from fertilizer and grass seed to ice melt in the winter. It’s built tough, and the 13-inch pneumatic tires handle all kinds of ground conditions. ‘For the price, you can’t beat the build quality and performance. The side spread control is clutch when working along sidewalks and driveways.'” (4-star review)

Emily from Boise, Idaho, Gardening Enthusiast: “I was having trouble getting an even spread with my old spreader, resulting in patchy lawn growth. After switching to the EarthWay 2170 100lb Broadcast Spreader Lawn Aerator, Fertilizer Spreader, Grass Seeder, Heavy-Duty Push Spreader with Adjustable Drop Rate, 13-Inch Pneumatic Tires, Side Spread Control, Red, I noticed a huge difference. The adjustable drop rate and side spread control allowed me to apply fertilizer and seed with much greater precision. Now, I’m getting more uniform growth and healthier-looking lawn. ‘The EarthWay 2170 solved my uneven spreading issues! Definitely worth the investment.'” (5-star review)

My Experience

My Three Months with the EarthWay Products 2170 100lb Broadcast Spreader

When I first got my hands on the EarthWay Products 2170 100lb Broadcast Spreader back in early spring, I was eager to finally tackle some long-overdue lawn care. Our property is about an acre, mostly grass, but with some tricky, sloped areas and narrow passages around flowerbeds. I’d always struggled with uneven fertilizer application using smaller, handheld spreaders. It was time for an upgrade.

The first thing I noticed was how solid the EarthWay Products 2170 felt. The frame is sturdy, and those big pneumatic tires made it a breeze to push, even when fully loaded. My wife, Sarah, even gave it a whirl, and she appreciated how much easier it was to maneuver than our old, rickety spreader.

We started with seeding a bare patch near the driveway. Setting the drop rate was simple, thanks to the clearly marked dial. I walked at a steady pace, and the EarthWay Products 2170 distributed the seed evenly, with no clumping or missed spots. What impressed me most was the side spread control. I was able to shut off the flow to the left side, preventing the grass seed from landing in my prized rose bushes. The seed landed precisely where I intended it to, with a satisfying thwack thwack sound as it dispersed.

Later, I used the EarthWay Products 2170 to spread fertilizer across the entire lawn. This is where the 100lb capacity really shone. I only had to fill it once to cover the whole yard, saving a ton of time and effort. I even used it to spread ice melt this past week, and the wide, even distribution prevented any icy patches from forming on the driveway.

One minor issue I ran into was with the initial assembly. The instructions weren’t the clearest, and I spent a bit longer than expected figuring out how to attach the handle. However, a quick search online cleared things up, and I was good to go.

Compared to other spreaders I’ve used in the past – mostly smaller, less robust models – the EarthWay Products 2170 is in a whole different league. It’s well-built, easy to use, and makes lawn care a much less tedious chore. I actually find myself looking forward to using it, which is something I never thought I’d say about a lawn spreader.

Final Verdict

Final Verdict

After using the EarthWay Products 2170 100lb Broadcast Spreader Lawn Aerator, Fertilizer Spreader, Grass Seeder, Heavy-Duty Push Spreader with Adjustable Drop Rate, 13-Inch Pneumatic Tires, Side Spread Control, Red for the past few months on my unruly patch of land, I can safely say it’s become an indispensable tool in my lawn care arsenal. I’ve put it through the wringer, spreading everything from grass seed to fertilizer pellets, and it’s consistently delivered.

This spreader is ideal for homeowners with medium to large-sized lawns who are tired of inconsistent coverage and back-breaking manual spreading. While the assembly instructions could be a tad clearer (I definitely had to re-do a step or two), the wide, pneumatic tires and the Edgeguard side spread control are game-changers. No more fertilizer ending up in the flowerbeds!

The biggest strength of the EarthWay 2170 is its even distribution, leading to a healthier, greener lawn. The adjustable drop rate is also key, letting me fine-tune the application based on the product I’m using. The biggest limitation, as I mentioned, is the initial assembly; it takes a little patience.

For anyone serious about lawn care and wants a reliable, easy-to-use spreader that can handle a decent-sized area, I highly recommend the EarthWay Products 2170 100lb Broadcast Spreader Lawn Aerator, Fertilizer Spreader, Grass Seeder, Heavy-Duty Push Spreader with Adjustable Drop Rate, 13-Inch Pneumatic Tires, Side Spread Control, Red. Considering its current price, and the professional results it delivers, it’s a worthwhile investment. If you’re looking for a single piece of equipment to handle all your spreading needs, give this one a serious look!

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