Scotts Spreader for Salt? A Friendly Guide to Winter Use

As winter approaches, many homeowners find themselves looking for efficient ways to tackle ice and snow. If you’ve got a Scotts spreader handy for lawn care, you might be wondering: “Can I use a Scotts spreader for salt?” The short answer is yes, you can, but there are some important considerations and best practices you’ll want to follow to ensure both your safety and the longevity of your equipment.

Using your Scotts spreader for salt can be a convenient and cost-effective solution, saving you from investing in a dedicated salt spreader. However, salt, especially rock salt, is notoriously corrosive and can be tricky to work with compared to granular fertilizers. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to confidently and safely use your Scotts spreader for winter de-icing tasks.

Understanding Your Scotts Spreader: Broadcast vs. Drop

Before you start, it’s helpful to know which type of Scotts spreader you own, as this can slightly influence how you handle salt.

• Broadcast Spreaders (Rotary Spreaders): These are very common. They use a spinning plate to cast granules in a wide arc. They’re great for covering large areas quickly and efficiently. When using salt, you’ll need to be mindful of the spread pattern to avoid hitting sensitive plants or over-applying.
• Drop Spreaders: These spreaders release granules directly underneath the hopper, creating a precise band of material. They are ideal for smaller areas, walkways, or when you need to avoid spreading material into garden beds. They offer more control but require more passes for larger areas.

Both types can handle salt, but the key differences lie in their application method and coverage area.

The Big “But”: Why Caution is Key When Using Salt

While your Scotts spreader is versatile, salt introduces unique challenges that fertilizer does not:

• Corrosion Concerns: This is the biggest warning. Salt is highly corrosive to metal. Many Scotts spreaders have metal components, such as the agitator, axles, gears, or parts of the shut-off mechanism. Repeated exposure to salt and moisture will lead to rust and potentially severe damage, shortening your spreader’s lifespan.
• Clumping and Clogging: Salt, especially in humid conditions or if it absorbs moisture, can clump together. This can lead to uneven spreading, blockages, or even damage to the spreader’s internal mechanisms if too much force is applied.
• Abrasive Nature: Rock salt crystals can be quite abrasive, potentially causing wear and tear on plastic parts over time, particularly the agitator or impeller.

Prepping Your Spreader for Winter Duty

To minimize risks, a little preparation goes a long way:

1. Clean Before Use: If your spreader has been used for fertilizer, give it a thorough cleaning first. Residue from other chemicals mixed with salt can create an even more aggressive corrosive environment.
2. Lubricate Metal Parts: For spreaders with exposed metal components, consider applying a silicone-based lubricant or a rust-inhibiting spray to these areas before loading salt. This creates a protective barrier, though it’s not foolproof.

Choosing the Right Salt: Not All Salts Are Created Equal

The type of salt you use can significantly impact your spreading experience:

• Recommended: Coarse Rock Salt or Pellets: Look for rock salt with a consistent, coarse granule size, similar to small pebbles. Calcium chloride pellets are also a good option. These larger, more uniform granules flow better through the spreader and are less likely to clump or clog.
• Use with Caution (or Avoid): Fine-Grained Salts: Fine-grained salts (like table salt or very finely crushed rock salt) can easily seep through gaps in the spreader mechanism, leading to uneven distribution or excessive application. They also tend to clump more readily.
• Avoid: Very Large Chunks: While coarse is good, excessively large chunks of rock salt can jam the spreader’s mechanism or damage the agitator. If your salt comes with very large pieces, break them up or remove them.

Optimal Spreader Settings for Salt

Unlike fertilizer, there aren’t universal “salt settings” for Scotts spreaders because salt density and granule size vary so much. Here’s how to approach it:

1. Start Low: Begin with a very low setting, perhaps one or two notches above the closed position. It’s always easier to make another pass than to remove too much salt.
2. Test and Adjust: Do a test run over a small, inconspicuous area (like a concrete path where over-application won’t harm plants). Observe the spread pattern and application rate. Adjust the setting incrementally until you achieve your desired coverage.
3. Consider Coverage Needs: For light icing, a sparse application is fine. For heavier ice or snow, you might need a slightly higher setting.
4. Uniformity is Key: Aim for an even spread. Too much salt in one spot can damage pavement, vegetation, and be wasteful.

Best Practices During Use

• Fill on a Tarp: Load your spreader on a tarp or designated area to catch any spills. This prevents salt from sitting on your lawn or concrete where it can cause damage.
• Walk Consistently: Maintain a steady walking pace to ensure an even distribution.
• Don’t Stop with the Gate Open: When you pause or change direction, close the spreader gate. Leaving it open will dump a pile of salt, creating a hazardous, corrosive spot.
• Don’t Overload: Fill the hopper only to a manageable level. An overloaded hopper can put stress on the spreader’s mechanism and make it harder to push.

The MOST Important Step: Post-Use Cleaning

This cannot be stressed enough: clean your spreader immediately and thoroughly after *every* use with salt.

1. Empty Remaining Salt: Dump any leftover salt back into its container. Do not leave it in the spreader.
2. Rinse Thoroughly: Use a garden hose to rinse the entire spreader, both inside the hopper and all external surfaces. Pay extra attention to the agitator, gears, wheels, and any metal parts.
3. Scrub if Needed: For any stubborn residue, use a brush with a mild soap and water solution.
4. Rinse Again: Ensure all soap and salt residue are completely washed away.
5. Dry Completely: This is critical. Allow the spreader to air dry thoroughly in the sun, or use a towel/leaf blower to speed up the process. Moisture combined with residual salt is a recipe for rust.
6. Lubricate (Again): Once dry, reapply a rust-inhibiting lubricant to any metal components.
7. Store Properly: Store your clean, dry spreader in a shed or garage, away from direct moisture.

When to Consider a Dedicated Salt Spreader

While using your Scotts spreader for salt is feasible, there are situations where a dedicated salt spreader might be a better investment:

• Frequent or Heavy Use: If you de-ice large areas regularly throughout the winter, a specialized spreader designed for salt will handle the abuse better and last longer.
• Large Properties: Dedicated salt spreaders often have larger capacities and more robust components.
• Corrosion-Resistant Design: Many salt spreaders are built with non-corrosive materials (e.g., all-plastic hoppers and mechanisms) specifically to withstand salt.

Pros and Cons of Using a Scotts Spreader for Salt

Pros:

• Cost-Effective: No need to buy an extra piece of equipment.
• Convenience: You already own it and know how to use it.
• Versatile: Gets the job done for occasional de-icing needs.

Cons:

• Corrosion Risk: Significant potential for damage to metal parts if not meticulously cleaned.
• Wear and Tear: Salt can be abrasive and cause faster wear than fertilizer.
• Less Efficient: May not spread as evenly or widely as a dedicated salt spreader.
• Reduced Lifespan: Without proper care, your spreader’s overall life expectancy will decrease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will using salt in my Scotts spreader damage my lawn or plants?

Yes, if over-applied or if it comes into contact with sensitive vegetation. Salt can draw moisture out of plants, causing “burn” or dehydration, and alter soil chemistry. Always apply sparingly and avoid spreading near desirable plants. Use a drop spreader for precise application if you have nearby landscaping.

What if I accidentally forget to clean my spreader right away?

Clean it as soon as you remember! The longer salt sits on metal parts, especially in the presence of moisture, the more damage it will cause. Even a delayed cleaning is better than no cleaning at all.

Can I use my Scotts spreader for ice melt pellets?

Yes, ice melt pellets (like calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, or blend products) are generally safe to use. They behave similarly to coarse rock salt, so follow all the same precautions regarding cleaning, settings, and lubrication.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, your Scotts spreader can absolutely be pressed into service for de-icing with salt. It’s a handy tool for managing winter conditions. However, the key to success and preserving your equipment lies in understanding the risks associated with salt, being meticulous with your application, and above all, committing to a thorough cleaning routine after every single use. Treat your spreader well, and it will help you keep your paths clear and safe all winter long!