If you’re looking for a quick way to apply weed killer, fertilizer, or water your plants without dragging the garden hose around, you can use a garden sprayer.
There are a lot of different things to think about when choosing the best garden sprayer for your needs. Let’s take a closer look at everything you need to know to find the right one for you.
Table of Contents
How to Choose a Garden Sprayer?
The first thing you need to do is figure out what you want to do with your garden sprayer. There are a lot of options to choose from, so it helps to have an idea of how you want to use it before you start looking.
Some of the biggest things to think about are the size of the project, how long it will take to complete, and your budget. You should also consider how long you want the sprayer to last. Are you just planning on doing a job or two? Or do you want something that will last for years to come?
Types of Garden Sprayers You Want to Use
After you think about those things, you should start to get a clearer idea of what you’re looking for. Here are some of the main types of sprayers to consider:
Backpack Sprayer
If you have a big project in mind or are planning to cover a lot of ground, a backpack sprayer is a good choice. Carrying them on your back distributes the weight around your shoulders and back, making it much easier to perform big jobs.
Trigger Sprayer
Trigger sprayers are easy to operate, just hold down the trigger, and the sprayer does its thing. If you have a big job in mind, look for a trigger sprayer with an auto-lock. This keeps the trigger engaged for a continuous spray, making it much more comfortable for your hand.
Tank Sprayer
Tank sprayers are generally good for big jobs, too, and most of them have a trigger and trigger-lock for easy application. Unlike a backpack sprayer, tank sprayer usually has a shoulder strap for carrying them around while you work.
Hose End Sprayer
Hose-end sprayers attach right to your garden hose. They come in handy for a lot of things, but having to be attached to the hose makes them less versatile than the more portable options.
Garden Sprayer Capacity
There are two things to think about when it comes to capacity. How much do you want to carry and how much do you need? These sprayers range from a liter to three gallons or more, so you have a wide range to choose from.
If you want to make sure you’re not going to run out of fertilizer while you’re working, go for something a little bigger. If you’re most concerned with weight and don’t mind having to refill the tank while you’re working, a smaller, lighter option might be better.
Using Chemical or Not
Some of these products are built to withstand the harsh chemicals found in weed killers and other lawn chemicals. Some are not. Before you choose, make sure you read up on whether or not the sprayer is made for chemicals or not.
Ease of Maintenance and Repair
The easier the sprayer is to care for, the better. Most of these sprayers feature easy to clean filters, and some even come with extra parts, so you’re already ahead of the game when it comes to maintenance.
The Best Garden Sprayers For Fertilizer, Weed Killer, or Cleaning
Here are ten of the best garden sprayer available. You’re sure to find one that works for you, no matter what job you’re trying to tackle.
1. Field King Professional 190328 Backpack Sprayer
The Professional Backpack Sprayer from Field King features a no-leak design so you don’t have to worry about any chemical dripping down your back while you’re working hard on your lawn.
What makes this sprayer a professional grade product? The internal piston pump delivers up to 150 PSI to get into those hard-to-reach places. That said, the included pressure regulator maintains a constant 25 PSI for standard application.
The 21-inch poly wand features high-quality Viton seals that can be changed in minutes without tools, and the comfort grip and lockable trigger make this one easy to use. There’s also an internal paddle to keep powders and water-soluble solutions mixed and ready to spray and a removable in-line filter to prevent clogging.
This sprayer comes with four nozzles, including a foaming nozzle and two flat fans, so it can tackle just about any job. There’s built-in wand storage, adjustable padded straps, a waist belt, and chest strap to make sure you’re comfortable while you work.
2. Chapin 20002 Lawn and Garden Sprayer
If you’re looking for something with a simple but reliable and effective design, take a look at this sprayer from Chapin. This brand has been in business since 1884, so it’s a pretty safe bet that they know what they’re doing when it comes to spraying your garden.
This product features a two-gallon funnel-top design and a see-through tank, so it’s easy to clean and refill. The 12-inch wand is easy to maneuver, and the 28-inch reinforced hose makes it possible to get into just about any area.
There’s an adjustable nozzle that lets you change the flow, and the ergonomic handle makes carrying and pumping easy. You can use this sprayer with common weed killers, pesticides, and fertilizers. It’s lightweight, rust-free, and the company offers complete technical support if you need it. Chapin truly is the way to spray.
3. Smith Contractor Sprayer
This simple, versatile sprayer from D.B. Smith is efficient and durable. You can use it for spraying your lawn or for sanitizing and commercial cleaning. Durable Viton seals throughout the pump help it resist chemical damage and extend the life of the product. Plus, they’re easy to change, even in the field.
The 21-inch poly wand has a lock-on feature and comfortable grip so your hand won’t get tired when covering large areas. It holds two gallons of spray, too, which is just the right amount because it’s not too heavy, but you don’t have to refill too often, either.
You get five nozzles with this sprayer, including an adjustable nozzle, two flat fans, and a foaming nozzle, plus there’s an easy-to-clean filter to prevent clogging. The shoulder strap makes it easy to carry, and the unique tear-drop shape lowers the center of gravity, so it feels more stable on your back.
4. Chapin 61502 Backpack Sprayer
The Pro-Series Plus from Chapin holds up to four gallons of liquid and features a wide, four-inch mouth opening for easy filling and cleaning. It’s compatible with most fertilizers, pesticides, and weed-killers and a great choice if you have a lot of ground to cover.
Since the tank is clear, it’s easy to see how much fluid is left so you know when you need to refill, and the filtration system uses one filter at the top and one at the shut-off to prevent clogging. The padded shoulder straps are super comfortable so you can cover your whole yard comfortably.
You can twist the nozzle to adjust the spray pattern to suit your needs, going from a targeted stream to a fine mist in seconds. It includes a poly fan and adjustable cone nozzle as well as a bonus foaming nozzle for precise application.
5. Roundup 190260 Lawn and Garden Sprayer
Roundup is a well-known brand when it comes to weed killers and lawn care, and this sprayer is a great way to apply their products and many more. The highly-effective design requires 25 percent fewer pumps, which saves you both time and energy.
The comfortable handle and continuous spraying feature help you cover a lot of ground without any pain or discomfort, and the aluminum wand is lightweight, durable, and built to last.
This sprayer comes with an adjustable nozzle and two fan nozzles so you can choose the coverage you need. There’s also a shut-off valve and a pressure-release cap, so no vapor or liquid comes out of the container when it’s time to refill.
Something we like about this product is that it’s available in three different sizes. Choose from one, two, or three-gallon canisters depending on how big your yard is and how much coverage you need.
6. ITISLL Garden Pump Sprayer
The ITISLL pump sprayer is a great choice for watering plants or applying weed killers in and around your home. It features a container made of transparent PE plastic that’s durable and lets you see how much liquid is left so you know when it’s time to refill.
This product features an adjustable brass wand with an easy-to-use adjustable nozzle. The wand is 19-inches long with a 50-inch hose, which makes it easy to get into those hard to reach places.
There’s also an ergonomic handle and a locking trigger that makes it easy to cover a lot of ground without hand pain or fatigue, and an adjustable shoulder strap so it’s easy to carry for long periods.
This ITISLL product also has a safety value automatically relieves pressure if it gets too high, and the wear-resistant seals, rings, and anti-clogging filters are easy to care for and made to last a long time. If there’s a quality issue, they will replace your sprayer free of charge for one year after the purchase date.
7. Scotts 190567 Battery Powered Pump Zero Technology Sprayer
If you want an awesome garden sprayer but don’t like the idea of a hand pump, you’re in luck. This product from Scotts comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that powers an air compressor pump. A full charge that lasts up to 12 applications.
A 21-inch poly wand with a comfortable handle makes it easy to get to those hard-to-reach places. The nozzle has a three-in-one design so you can adjust the spray to suit your needs. There’s a lock-on feature, too, so you can cover a lot of ground without having to keep holding down the trigger.
This sprayer has a shut-off that uses Viton seals for long-term resistance against chemical fertilizers and weed killers, and an in-line filter prevents clogs and is super easy to maintain.
You get a limited three-year warranty and free replacement parts so, if anything goes wrong, you’re covered.
8. Solo 418 One-Hand Pressure Sprayer
It doesn’t get more convenient than this Solo one-hand sprayer, a small, compact product designed to get the job done. This is a good option if you’re looking for something that gives you a lot of control. It has a unique drip guard that keeps the spray going just where you need it.
The lock-on trigger and ergonomic design reduce hand fatigue, and because the sprayer is so compact and lightweight, it’s easy to take it just about anywhere. All you have to do is fill it, pump it 30 times, and unlock the trigger.
Don’t let the small size fool you. This sprayer features Viton gaskets and O-rings to minimize damage from harsh chemicals, making sure it lasts for as long as possible. The multi-angle spray nozzle easily adjusts to just about any job, making this the perfect little sprayer for all your needs.
9. ITISLL Garden Pump Sprayer
This small sprayer from ITISLL is ideal for getting to any area of your garden. It’s compact, easy-to-use design is made of high-quality material, and the transparent bottle lets you see right when it’s time to refill.
An adjustable brass nozzle adjusts from a fine mist to a direct spray, and the ergonomic handle is easy to maneuver just about anywhere. There’s a locking trigger so you don’t have to keep holding down the trigger and a safety valve that automatically relieves pressure when needed.
There are a lot of great things about this design that make it exceptionally durable. It has wear-resistant seals and rings as well as anti-clogging filters for easy maintenance. Spare parts are also included so you have everything you need. If you have any trouble, ITISLL will replace the sprayer free-of-charge within one year.
10. M4 MY4SONS Battery Powered Backpack Sprayer
Just about any job that requires a sprayer can be made easier with this battery-powered backpack sprayer from MY4SONS. A single charge lasts for between six and eight hours or over 200 gallons of spray – and you never have to do a single pump.
You can adjust the pressure between 20 and 60 PSI which makes this sprayer extremely versatile. The stainless steel adjustable wand has a plastic handle with a locking mechanism for automatic spraying, making it easier to keep working for long periods without hand fatigue.
This sprayer has a wide mouth for easy filling and a filter to prevent dirt and debris from getting in. It comes with multiple nozzles, including a fog tip, fan top, and cone. Both the battery and charger are included, too. It takes eight hours to get a full charge.
There are some other notable features to this one, too, including triple-thick shoulder pads, organizer pockets, and a quick-change battery compartment. If you have a lot of jobs to tackle or ground to cover, this sprayer cuts your work time in half.
How to Use a Garden Sprayer?
Every garden sprayer has its own unique set of instructions, so make sure you read up on how to use the garden sprayer you choose. This is particularly true for the battery-powered ones so you learn about how long you need to charge the battery initially.
Here’s a general look at how to use a pump garden sprayer.
First, twist off the top of the sprayer. Before you fill the tank, read the directions on the product you’re using. Make sure it’s compatible with a garden sprayer and that you’re diluting it properly if necessary.
When filling the sprayer, make sure you stop when it’s about two-thirds of the way full. You have to leave this space at the top of the tank to allow the pressure to build when you pump the sprayer.
Screw the top back on and twist the pump handle so it’s unlocked. Pump the handle until it becomes too difficult to push it back down. Then, you’re ready to spray.
Aim the wand away from you and toward a non-vegetative surface to test it. Engage the trigger and check the spray to make sure it’s what you want. Make adjustments to the nozzle as needed and then get to work.
When you’re done, use the valve to relieve any built-up pressure before opening the sprayer. Then, open the lid and pour out any extra liquid somewhere where it won’t cause any damage.
Then, fill up the tank with clean water, replace the lid, and pump the handle again. Squirt the clean water through the hose, wand, and nozzle to make sure it’s clean. Then, empty the sprayer and make sure there is no pressure in the canister before storing it.
Problems with Garden Sprayers – Troubleshooting & Repairing
Some common problems pop up with garden sprayers. They include:
Leaks
Leaks can occur anywhere in the system, from the tank to the hose to the wand. If you notice a leak, you should stop using the sprayer immediately. These sprayers have a lot of pressure, and a leak can cause a lot of problems.
Release the pressure with the relief valve, preferably somewhere away from vegetation or anything that can be damaged because the chemicals spilling out of the sprayer may cause harm.
These sprayers use O-rings or gaskets that can wear down or corrode over time. Once you figure out if the gasket is the problem, replace it, and put the sprayer back together. Fill the sprayer with water then test it to make sure you fixed the problem.
Clogs
Anytime you’re working outside in the garden, there’s a lot of dirt and debris involved, and it’s easy for things to get into the hose or tank, especially if you don’t take the time to thoroughly clean the sprayer after every use.
If the spray isn’t working properly, release the pressure, and remove whatever part of the sprayer appears to be clogged. Use a garden hose to try to loosen the clog. Avoid sticking tools or anything else into the hose as it could damage the sprayer’s parts.
Lack of Pressure
If you can’t get pressure to build up in the sprayer, open the tank and remove the pump. You likely have a cracked assembly or bad gasket. Replace the problem part, and you should be ready to go.
Conclusion
We chose some of the best garden sprayers to help you find the right one for you. While all of these products are great, we recommend the Field King Professional Backpack Sprayer.
It has an easy-to-use, convenient design that delivers up to 150 PSI so you can get into all those hard-to-reach places. The 21-inch wand had a comfortable handle and lockable trigger which makes this sprayer comfortable to use.
We also really like the internal paddles that keep powders and solutions mixed while you work, preventing any sediment, and making sure the spray is mixed consistently. The removable filter prevents clogging and there are four different nozzles to choose from so you can use it for just about any job.
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