The drop holes often get clogged. Turning changes the rotating plate speed. Although rotary spreaders are generally less precise than drop spreaders in terms of uniformity of distribution, with proper calibration and operation they too provide satisfactory results. The problem with uniform distribution of granules can be corrected by proper overlapping of adjacent swaths. Always try to minimize drift of small particles when using rotary spreaders.
Rotary spreaders throw material three to four feet in front of the spreader.
The operator is another three to four feet behind the spreader hopper. This means that when the material finally reaches the turf, it is six to eight feet in front of the operator. It is essential then that the operator run a border along the edges of the area being treated so that there is enough room to maneuver the spreader for the next pass. This technique also eliminates the possibility of pesticides reaching non-target areas. Much attention is currently being given to non-target application of fertilizers and pesticides.