What is a key design feature of a drop spreader?

• A. A row of holes across the full width of the hopper bottom
• B. A spinning plate to distribute granules
• C. A narrow nozzle at the end of a wand
• D. A vibration mechanism to shake granules

Answer: (A)

Drop spreaders are built to release granules directly downward in a narrow, uniform line as you move, so you place product precisely where you want it. The essential design that achieves this is a row of holes across the full width of the hopper bottom. As material sits in the hopper, these openings let granules pour out evenly across the width, creating a straight-down distribution pattern rather than flinging material outward.

This differs from other designs: a spinning plate is used to throw granules outward in a broad, circular pattern typical of broadcast spreaders; a narrow nozzle at the end of a wand is characteristic of liquid spraying rather than granular dropping; and a vibration mechanism to shake granules isn’t the defining feature of a drop spreader, though some equipment may have agitation for flow. The row of holes across the hopper is the hallmark that makes this type of spreader drop straight down into a narrow band.