How does a drop spreader work?

 

With a drop spreader, the start of the process is similar to the start of the process in a Broadcast Spreader, the spreading medium is placed or poured into a hopper.

As the spreader moves forward, the material is drawn down by a combination of gravity and vibration, down through a row of holes and then falls straight to the surface.  

This distribution is measured, with regular gaps between the holes so a regular and efficient drop pattern is attained.

 

N.B. The spreading medium in both a Drop Garden Spreader and a Broadcast Garden Spreader should always be loose (free flowing) and dry or it will clog and not spread properly.