Looking for the best spreader for side by side use? This guide highlights five top ATV/UTV broadcast spreaders designed to attach to utility racks, helping you evenly apply seed, fertilizer, salt, and more. Each option suits different yard sizes, materials, and hitch setups. The list targets buyers who want reliable front- or rear-mounted spreading on their side-by-side or ATV, with practical guidance on what makes each model stand out.
Summary table of selected products:
- Yard Commander 80 LB: Front or rear mounting, easy drop-rate control, salt/seed/fertilizer ready.
- Boss Buck ATV Seeder: Wireless control, adjustable flow, versatile for seed and feed.
- Hooyman Vehicle Spreader: 125 LB capacity, universal hitch, adjustable feed rate.
- Garvee Tow-Behind 110 LB: Tow-behind design, wide 13 ft spread, durable build.
- Agri-Fab 85 LB: 85 lb hopper, 10 ft spread, easy cable flow control.
Yard Commander 80 Lb ATV/UTV Spreader
The Yard Commander spreader is designed for easy mounting on the front or rear utility rack of an ATV or UTV. It features an 80-pound corrosion-resistant hopper and a clearly accessible drop-rate adjustment, making it suitable for spreading seed, fertilizer, and more. Best for homeowners with medium-sized lawns or winter spreading tasks who want quick control from the handlebars.
Who it’s best for: buyers needing front- or rear-mounted capability with simple in-cab control. Why selected: sturdy hopper with a practical 80 lb capacity and adjustable rate for even coverage. Limitation: capacity varies by material type, which can affect refilling frequency in dense applications.
Boss Buck ATV Seeder Spreader
The Boss Buck spreader offers wireless control and an adjustable flow for versatile spreading of feed, seed, salt, and fertilizer. It includes a 2-inch receiver hitch and is designed to perform with a standard ATV setup. Best for: users who want remote operation and flexible material handling in a single unit.
Caution: the nozzle can be adjusted for larger materials, but very fine powders may require careful calibration. Why chosen: its wireless control adds convenience, and the adjustable flow helps tailor coverage for varied tasks. Better for: property owners who frequently switch between seed and feed applications.
Hooyman Vehicle Spreader
The Hooyman spreader is built for universal attachment with a standard 2-inch hitch and reinforced straps. It has a 125-pound capacity hopper—good for larger applications like seeding, land management, and lawn care. The adjustable feed rate enables control over throwing distance, reaching up to 30 feet. Best for: users who need a high-capacity spreader that fits multiple vehicle types.
Limitation: universal attachments may require additional hardware or setup specifics for certain models. Why selected: high capacity and adjustable throwing distance improve efficiency on larger properties. Choose this if: you regularly spread heavier materials or cover large areas quickly.
Garvee Tow-Behind Spreader 110 Lbs
This tow-behind spreader handles up to 110 pounds, reducing refills during large lawn renovations or farm work. It features a 30-level flow control and up to 13 feet of spreading width, with a rugged all-terrain build including a powder-coated steel frame and 13-inch tires. Best for: homeowners and small farms that require long-running spreading with minimal stops.
Best for: those who need a durable, wide-spread, tow-behind option. Limitation: as a tow-behind unit, it may require a hitch and space to maneuver compared to mounted options. Why chosen: large hopper and adjustable flow minimize refills and waste, suitable for big areas.
EliteEdge Tow Behind Spreader, 125 Lbs
The EliteEdge tow-behind spreader combines robust construction with a wide 9.8-foot spreading width and 30 adjustable flow settings. It uses a powder-coated steel frame and durable aluminum gears, with 13-inch pneumatic tires for year-round performance. Best for: users who want precise control and a sturdy spreader that can tackle varied terrains. Limitation: as a tow-behind model, it’s less convenient for very small or uneven plots. Why selected: the setup emphasizes durability, even coverage, and easy maintenance, especially on larger properties.
Buyers Products ATV Broadcast Spreader
The Buyers Products ATV spreader turns an ATV into a dedicated spreading tool with a 15-gallon hopper and 30-foot spread width. This model is designed for multi-season use, including seed, fertilizer, rock salt, and deer feed. Best for: buyers who want a rugged, climate-resistant hopper with broad coverage. Limitation: larger hopper may require more space and stable mounting. Why chosen: combination of a durable hopper and wide spread makes it suitable for large-scale property maintenance and seasonal tasks.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For a Spreader For Side By Side
- Mounting style: Choose front/rear mounting for easy access and visibility, or tow-behind for heavy-duty, long-run tasks. Consider your vehicle’s hitch and rack compatibility.
- Capacity: Hopper size affects refills. Larger properties benefit from 110–125 lb capacity, while smaller yards can manage with 80–85 lb units.
- Spread width and flow control: Wider spread and multiple flow settings enable precise coverage and fewer passes. Look for adjustable settings up to 10–13 feet or more.
- Material compatibility: Verify that the unit handles seeds, fertilizer, salt, and lime without corrosion or clogging. Poly hoppers resist rust; steel frames provide durability.
- Control method: Wired, wireless, or manual controls impact ease of use. Wireless or in-cab controls reduce hand fatigue during operation.
- Terrain compatibility: All-terrain tires and rugged frames help on lawns, gravel, and winter surfaces. Consider wheel size and weight distribution for stability.
- Maintenance and setup: Quick assembly, tool-free setup, and simple calibration save time. Check whether the unit requires special mounting hardware.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best spreader for side by side use? The best choice depends on your yard size, material type, and whether you prefer mounted or tow-behind designs. For frequent refills, higher capacity is advantageous.
- Can I spread salt with these spreaders? Some models are designed for salt, especially winter applications, but verify the hopper material and nozzle compatibility for salt efficiency.
- How wide can these spreaders spread? Typical wide patterns range from about 8 to 13 feet, with some models offering adjustable widths.
- Are wireless controls worth it? Wireless control improves convenience and safety by letting you adjust flow without reaching for the unit.
- Do mounting options affect performance? Yes. Front-mounting offers easy access, while rear-mounting or tow-behind designs can improve balance on slopes and heavy loads.
- What is a practical hopper capacity for medium yards? An 80–110 lb hopper balances fewer refills with manageable weight for portable use.