If you're thinking about growing new grass or thickening what you already have, you've probably wondered if you really need all those lawn tools: drop spreaders, broadcast spreaders, overseeders, seeder machines, and fertilization tools. It can get confusing fast. The truth is, not every lawn needs every tool. Some tools make a big difference in combatting uneven application, others are just nice to have. Let’s break down which ones are worth it—and which you can skip.
Do I Need a Grass Seed Spreader?
If you're spreading seed over a large area or entire lawn, yes. A seed spreader with the correct settings gives you uniform coverage. The grass seed will usually have spreader settings and application rates according to square feet. Without one, it’s easy to dump too much seed in one spot and not enough in another. That can leave your lawn looking patchy or uneven. A handheld spreader might be enough for small spaces, but if you have a bigger yard, a push spreader is worth the small investment.
A rotary spreader also keeps your hands clean and helps you avoid wasting seed. Walking around larger lawns and shaking a bag or throwing seed by hand like you're feeding chickens gets tiring fast—and the results usually aren’t great. A spreader helps you get efficient lawn coverage every time.
Do I Need a Lawn Overseeder or Seeder Machine?
If you're fixing bare spots or trying to thicken your lawn, overseeding works best with a tool that can do more than just drop seed. Lawn overseeders are made for this job. A slit seeder cuts into the soil surface slightly and drops seed in right after. That small cut helps the seed settle in and grow faster. This is called “seed-to-soil contact,” and it’s what helps grass grow strong.
A lawn seeder machine is similar. It’s more of a full-size tool—think of a spreader with some extra parts to break up the top layer of soil. Most homeowners don’t need to own one. You can rent one for a weekend or even hire a lawn care professional that uses one. Unless you're reseeding your whole yard every season, it’s probably not worth buying outright.
Here’s where these tools tend to make the most sense:
- Large or uneven lawns benefit most from a broadcast type of spreader
- Handheld spreaders work well for precise application in narrow side yards or small patches
- Overseeders give better results when you’re reviving tired grass
- Seeder machines are better rented than bought unless you’re doing major lawn work every year
Do I Need a Lawn Fertilization Spreader?
Yes, if you plan to fertilize your lawn. And you should. Fertilizer helps seeds grow strong roots and strong grass, especially in the first few weeks. The same rules apply here as they do for seed: spreading granular fertilizer by hand can be messy and uneven. A spreader for fertilizer lets you get the right distribution rate in the right places; it also cuts down on waste.
Most fertilizer spreaders are multipurpose. The one you use for seed can likely be used for fertilizer too. Just make sure to clean it between uses so you don’t mix the two. Look for broadcast lawn spreaders with adjustable settings—some are better at handling fine seed, while others are built for granular products.
FAQ
Can I just throw grass seed on my lawn without any tools?
You can, but the results usually aren’t great. Seeds need to touch the soil surface to grow grass seedlings. Throwing seed by hand often leads to patchy growth, wasted seed, and slower results. Even a basic broadcast spreader gives you better controlled coverage with less effort.
How much does it cost to rent a lawn overseeder?
Most rental centers charge between $40 and $100 for a day, depending on your location and the size of the machine. If you’re only overseeding once a year, renting can be a smarter move than buying.
