Table of Contents
For those who have ever gardened before, you know that spreading peat moss on your lawn can be pretty time-consuming.
It has to be done manually, and then you must use rakes or shovels to get it evenly across your yard.
Many people hire professionals to spread their peat moss. However, if you are tight on funds but still need help getting your mulch down, then a roller can help you.
This post will guide you on making an exceptional homemade spreader so that you can spread your peat moss all for yourself!
Let’s get started!
How to Make a DIY Peat Moss Spreader?
Materials
- 27-gallon tote
- Sawzall
- Zip ties
- Duct tape
- Pruners or wire cutters
- Half-inch chicken wire (to be used as the screen on the bottom of the tote)
Steps
- Remove the bottom of the 27-gallon tote
- Drills holes on the bottom side
- Attach the screen to the bottom side of the tote using zip ties
- Duct tape the edges
- You’re done!
It’s vital to know the right way of applying your new hand tool since you’re interacting with it for the first time. Use the following tips for a head start:
- To use this hand tool, dump peat moss in there, put your lid on it, and then shake it (up and down) as you move around the area you want to cover. Start spreading it on one side and ensure you overlay every pass by nearly half.
- Remember you can inflate it with peat moss based on your lawn’s size. Once you’re done, give that lawn enough watering to make it easy for Peat Moss to settle in.
- The process is that simple! And that’s how you can successfully use your new hand tool to spread Peat Moss and expect to receive appreciation from your lawn in time!
This homemade spreader is awesome if you’re on a tight budget. You’ll get the tote for around $11, hardware cloth for about $8, zip ties for approximately $5, and duct tape for about $4.
So the total cost will be roughly $30. Also, making this hand tool is a quick process that’ll take about 20 mins.
The advantage of this homemade hand tool is that it’s cheap to make, layers nicely, and conserves peat. It’s a cleaner spreader but be ready to see your boots or legs getting dirty.
With this homemade circulator, you can cover approximately 5000 square feet of area with eight bricks of peat pretty evenly.
However, it’s a decent workout, but this will depend on the quantity of peat you dump into it.
Maintenance and Storage Tips for Your DIY Peat Moss Spreader
Once you’ve built your spreader, it’s essential to take care of it for years. Here are some tips for maintaining and storing your homemade spreader:
- Keep the homemade spreader clean and free of debris after each use.
- Store the spreader in a dry, safe place when not in use.
- Inspect the distributor regularly for any damage or wear and tear.
- Make sure all moving parts are lubricated and functioning properly.
With proper care, your homemade distributor will be an essential tool in your gardening arsenal for years to come!
Is It a Good Idea to Make Your Own Peat Moss Spreader?
There are both advantages and disadvantages to making your peat moss distributor.
One advantage is that it will be much less expensive than a shop distributor. Another advantage is that you can customize it to fit your specific needs.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider as well. One drawback is that building the distributor will take more time and effort compared to purchasing one.
Additionally, a handcrafted spreader may not be as durable or efficient as a purchased one.
Is It OK to Apply Peat Moss by Hand and Avoid Using a DIY Spreader?
Peat moss can be applied by hand, but it is much easier to use a distributor. Applying peat moss by hand can be very messy and time-consuming.
It is also difficult to evenly distribute the peat moss without a spreader.
Peat Moss Spreader for Sale vs. DIY Peat Moss Spreader
There are many different types of peat moss distributors available for purchase. Some are small and handheld, while others are larger and meant to be pulled behind a lawn tractor or ATV.
The size of the mechanical device you need will depend on the size of the area you need to cover. Spreaders can range in price from around $30 to $200.
A handcrafted spreader may not be as durable or efficient as a purchased one, but it can be just as effective if used correctly.
One advantage of a handcrafted spreader is that it can be customized to fit your specific needs. Additionally, it will be much less expensive than purchasing a distributor.
What Are Some Tips for Using Your New DIY Peat Moss Spreader Successfully?
Here are some tips for using your handcrafted spreader:
- Be sure to distribute the peat moss to cover the entire area evenly.
- Use a light touch when operating the spreader, so you don’t damage the mesh.
- Empty the home-built spreader often to avoid overloading it.
- Keep an eye on the weather, and don’t apply peat moss if it is raining or windy outside.
Tips for Spreading Peat Moss Evenly and Effectively in Your Garden Using a DIY Spreader
Peat moss is an essential part of any healthy garden. Here are some tips for spreading it evenly and effectively:
- Use the handcrafted spreader to distribute the peat moss evenly.
- Use a light touch when operating the home-built spreader, so you don’t damage the mesh.
- Empty the handcrafted spreader often to avoid overloading it.
- Keep an eye on the weather, and don’t apply peat moss if it is raining or windy outside.
Benefits/Advantages of a DIY Peat Moss Spreader?
Saves You Cash
A self-build spreader is a great way to save money on the cost of purchasing one. If you already have a garden and are looking for a way to add some organic material to your soil, this is an easy way to do it.
You can use this self-build spreader with any other materials such as fertilizer, seed, or mulch that need to be spread evenly across large areas of land.
Promotes Even Distribution of Peat Moss
If you want a lawn that looks good and has healthy roots, it’s important to get even distribution of peat moss.
A do-it-yourself spreader can help you achieve this by applying peat moss in a uniform manner.
It’ll also make it easier for you to apply other materials such as fertilizer, seed, and soil evenly over your lawn area.
Can Complete the Task Within Shortest Possible Time
This is a great advantage of a do-it-yourself peat moss roller. You can use it to spread peat moss on your lawn, or any other surface you want to cover with the material.
It also has many other uses like filling up holes in your lawn, creating new beds for plants and trees, and more!
The best thing about this home-built machine is that it can be used by anyone who has some basic knowledge about how things work.
So if you don’t have any experience then don’t worry because it won’t take much time at all once you get started using this device!
Ensures You Stay Upright
Keeping your garden neat is a lot of work and when you have to carry a large amount of peat moss into the garden, it could be extremely tiring.
A do-it-yourself spreader allows you to carry out your work in a much easier way and saves you from backaches.
This also makes it easier for you to reach all areas of your garden without having to bend down or squat down too much.
Additional Tips for Improving the Health of Your Lawn
In addition to using the do-it-yourself spreader, there are a few other things you can do to help improve the health of your lawn. Here are some additional tips:
- Aerate the soil regularly – This will help improve drainage and soil aeration.
- Use organic fertilizers instead of chemical ones – This will help increase the soil’s nutrient content (without adding harmful chemicals).
- Water deeply and infrequently – This will help to encourage deep roots, making your lawn more drought-resistant.
- Mow at the correct height – Mowing your lawn too short can damage the grass and make it more susceptible to disease.
- Remove weeds by hand – This will help to prevent them from spreading and taking over your lawn.
Conclusion
A do-it-yourself peat moss spreader is a great way to save money and spread peat moss yourself. It is easy to make, and you only need a few materials and some essential tools.
Peat moss has many benefits for gardens and landscapes, so if you have an area that needs mulching, consider using a peat moss spreader.