Not sure about the SG3000 broadcast spreader but my Speedy Green 3000 drop spreader has calibration settings on the pamphlet that is included with the unit. You just set it at certain dial setting and then make sure a calibration line at the chute lines up.

You might want to check out SG3000 literature in the stores to see if it has anything on calibration.

My Earthgreen is off the mark as well. I've just adjusted for this by setting a number a couple of ticks smaller.

Thank you Paulinct!

You're welcome! I had the exact same question earlier this year and was glad to have found that. Curious whether it worked for you - I have heard some folks complain about inaccuracy of the Scotts broadcast spreaders since they changed from metal to plastic, but can't tell whether that is a "they don't make them like they used to" kind of complaint, or something more substantive.

Paul

Hi Paulinct - I set my dial to 2 and the calibration line was off. I increased to one click past 3 to make it perfect. I'll go back and adjust the nut before applying any material. Hope this helps...

Oh - and thanks very much for the info!

Most fertilizer bags have a spread rate, like 20 lbs. per 5,000 sq. ft. That means 1 lb. will treat 250 sq. ft.

So, you can measure off a 250 sq. ft. area and adjust your spreader to the setting you think is correct. Apply the 1 lb. of fertilizer to the 250 sq. ft. area.

If you run out of fertilizer before you finished, then the setting is too high. If you have fertilizer left, your setting is too low.

It may take a couple of 250 sq. ft. patches to get the right setting, but it's a layman's way of doing it. Start with a low setting and go up (that way you won't burn up your lawn).

Once you find the right setting, find another common spreader on the package that uses the same setting. Most likely you will be able to use that spreader's number for your spreader on other products.

You may want to do this on a sidewalk or driveway, that way you can sweep up the granules and reuse them on the lawn.

How do you calibrate the Scotts speedy Green 3000 with the metal shute? Mine is over 22 years old.