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Best Tow Behind Sprayer for Your Yard Inc. Boom and Spot Sprayers [2023 Review]

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The best tow behind sprayer stays true to its namesake, making the job of spreading fertilizer and pesticides or watering your plants much easier, as it is attached to either a mower, tractor, or an ATV. So far, we’ve been using a tractor-mounted spray tank, but we really need something a bit more maneuverable for around the gardens.

For the paddocks, we’ll definitely stick with the tractor sprayer because it has a much bigger tank capacity and broadcast reach than the mower or ATV tow behind sprayers. But for the more “urban” spaces around the house, a sprayer we can tow behind the lawn mower would be perfect. And the tractor makes a huge mess when it’s wet!

Northstar’s tow behind sprayers totally cleaned up in this review!

Our #1 and #2 are made by Northstar, and they have incredible reviews on Amazon. Check out the 31-gallon sprayer with boom here.

Our Best Tow Behind Spray Top 7

Before we get into the details, let’s take a brief overview of how all the tow behind sprayers in this review ranked up!

As you’ll see, there’s one clear winner.

The NorthStar Tow-Behind Sprayer (31-Gallon) is the best tow behind sprayer for most people, as it has a boom,

1. Best Sprayer With Boom: Northstar 31 Gallon Tow Behind Boom Broadcast and Spot Sprayer

Looking for a pull behind sprayer with boom that can do it all? Then this 31-gallon capacity tow behind sprayer might be just what you are looking for!

This Northstar sprayer is our top pick because it has an awesome 80-inch effective spray width and a 120-inch overall spray width. That’s quite impressive!

This tow behind sprayer can hold its own when it comes to sun exposure! The tank, made by Northstar, has extra thick walls that are not only resistant to UV rays, but also compatible with pretty much all kinds of pesticides. So, you can expect this bad boy to last you a lifetime.

On top of that, it has an industrial-grade pump that produces a maximum of 70 psi for a truly powerful spray.

This sprayer is also spring-loaded, and its breakaway boom arms can fold up for the sake of compact storage.

Its 7.5-inch diameter tank lid is helpful for fills and refills, and it has a bottom drain that allows you to easily empty the tank.

NorthStar Tow-Behind Trailer Boom Broadcast and Spot Sprayer - 31-Gallon Capacity, 2.2 GPM, 12 Volt DC
$449.99
  • 12V 2.2GPM NSQ Series pump
  • 70 PSI max
  • Great chemical resistance with extra-thick walls, Santoprene diaphragm, and Viton valves.
  • Foldable booms with spot spray gun
  • Remote switch with battery clips


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03/27/2024 12:11 pm GMT

2. Best For ATVs: NorthStar ATV Sprayer with 2-Nozzle Boom- 26-Gallon

If you want a sprayer that will be easy to mount to your ATV, this one’s for you. While it isn’t expressly a tow behind sprayer, it is still the best option if you want to be sure your sprayer will work with your ATV.

Versatile with no required cool-down period, the Northstar ATV sprayer performs around the clock whenever you want.

The Northstar 26-gallon capacity sprayer runs on a 12-Volt battery and has a maximum PSI setting of 70

This boom sprayer, with its steel frame, delivers an effective spray width of 40 ft! That’s incredible! Plus, it has an overall spray height of 19 ft. That is some serious land coverage!

The industrial-grade NSQ Series on-demand pump makes this sprayer a winner, as it provides faster priming and a longer lifespan.

You can attach this sprayer to either an ATV or a garden tractor.

NorthStar ATV Sprayer with 2-Nozzle Boom- 26-Gallon
$329.99
  • 12V, 2.2 GPM NorthStar NSQ Series on-demand pump generates 70 PSI
  • 100% continuous duty oversized electric pump motor — no down time waiting for the motor to cool
  • Patented DXS-3 pump valves are made with chemical-resistant Viton for faster priming, better performance and longer life
  • Santoprene diaphragm has superior reliability and chemical resistance
  • Regulator, pressure gauge and deluxe trigger spray gun for fine tuning of spray pressure


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03/27/2024 11:22 am GMT

3. Best for Lawn: John Deere 25 Gallon LP19479 Tow Behind Sprayer 

This best tow behind sprayer performs well in a residential or commercial yard. With a 25 gallon capacity, it’s big enough to spray your entire lawn but not much more.

This yard sprayer has a 60-inch folding spray boom arm that can spray a swath of 90 inches.

Three spray nozzles are provided for precise pattern-spraying and it has a 19-foot long hose and a spray wand for spot spraying either lawns, shrubs, or trees

Its Shurflo diaphragm-type pump delivers an impressive 100 PSI, and along with the hose, the adjustable nozzle can achieve streams up to 30 feet.

It also has built-in support for vertical storage in your garage. Weighing around 50 pounds, the sprayer’s frame runs on four 4.10/3.50 pneumatic tires that minimize ground compaction and maintains a low center of gravity.

John Deere 25 Gallon Tow Behind Sprayer LP19479
$599.99
  • 25-gallon capacity
  • Suitable for liquid fertilizer, herbicides, pesticides, de-icers, and more.
  • Foldable boom with 3 spray nozzles.
  • Spot-spraying wand with adjustable brass spray tip
  • 100 PSI Shurflo diaphragm-type pump (no damage with it runs dry!)
  • Quick-disconnect 2-wire wiring harness to hook it up


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03/27/2024 09:11 am GMT

4. Best High Capacity: NorthStar Tow-Behind Trailer Tow Behind Sprayer – 41-Gallon

This large Northstar sprayer has a liquid delivery is 2.0 GPM (Gallons Per Minute), and it has a maximum system pressure of 60 PSI, which is well above average.

It has a 40-inch boom width and an 8.3-foot overall broadcast width for wide coverage, which will surely cover multiple trees. 

Northstar delivers once again in terms of reach, as the spray gun shoots up to 21 feet vertically and 32 feet wide. So, you will have no problem addressing the spots in your yard that need covering or getting up in the trees for liquid fertilizers or pest control.

Northstar will equip your sprayer with a spray gun nozzle that can be adjusted between 3 different spraying modes; stream, cone, or atomized mist. 

User reviews have noted pump priming issues with this sprayer, especially if you let it sit for some time. You will have to prime it again by taking off the hose and putting a normal garden hose in its place. This sprayer won’t self-prime, and it needs some liquid in its pump for it to work. 

NorthStar Tow-Behind Trailer Tow Behind Sprayer - 41-Gallon
$699.99
  • 41-gallon capacity polymer tank with extra-thick walls is chemical and UV resistant
  • Delivers up to 4.0 GPM open flow and 60 PSI max. for quick spraying times
  • 8.3ft. broadcast pattern
  • Provides the power you need to reach a vertical spray height up to 21ft. max., and a horizontal spray distance of up to 32ft. max.
  • NorthStar NSQ Series pump is built with a Santoprene diaphragm and patented DXS-3 Viton valves for performance, chemical compatibility and durability


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03/27/2024 10:16 am GMT

5. Best Budget: Ironton 13G Tow Behind Trailer and Spot Sprayer 40 PSI

Do you have weeds growing out of control in your yard? Then, the Ironton Tow-Behind Trailer Broadcast and Spot Sprayer is the sprayer you need for pesky weed problems.

It only has a 13 gallon capacity, so it won’t do heavy-duty work, but you will be getting a sprayer that is approved for the use of agricultural herbicides like Roundup.

What is included with Ironton’s sprayer is a broadcast and spot spray gun and a remote switch, the latter of which is very convenient. 

The broadcast width of this sprayer is 40 inches, and its stream reaches 12 feet vertically and 20 feet horizontally, so this is enough coverage to say goodbye to those weeds.

This sprayer runs on 10-inch pneumatic wheels, so it can handle rough terrain with ease.

Additionally, it comes at a very affordable price!

On the downside of things, Ironton’s pump only delivers 1 GPM with a maximum of 40 PSI, so you won’t be getting this sprayer for its power. Its spray gun nozzle can only adjust from stream to cone, so if you are looking for more adjustment options, you won’t get it with this sprayer.

Ironton Tow-Behind Trailer Sprayer - 13-Gallon, 1 GPM, 12 Volt DC
$249.99
  • 1 GPM Ironton pump, 40 PSI
  • 13-gallon UV-resistant tank for pretty much all pesticides and herbicides
  • Bottom drain to easily empty the tank
  • No booms, spray gun only (12ft vertical, 20ft horizontal spray distance)
  • Effective broadcast width of 40"
  • Remote switch and battery clips


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03/27/2024 09:51 am GMT

6. Best Lightweight: Brinly Self-Storing 15 Gallon Tow Sprayer

Delivering 16 ft of spray width with its extendable booms, the Brinly Self-Storing Tow Sprayer with Collapsible Boom can prevent weeds and insects from invading your yard.

The spray wand can reach as far as 16 ft, which can reach trees and bushes if you need to spray them. This sprayer also runs on 10-inch tires for a smooth ride.

This sprayer has a universal tow hitch that can attach to just about any kind of tractor. This means that you don’t have to worry about whether it fits your John Deere or Troy Bilt tractor.

Brinly can safely say that it has the lightest sprayer in weight on this list. It won’t be a chore moving this thing around as it weighs only 41.7 pounds.

This sprayer is advertised to have a boom of a 70-inch spray width, which is misleading. User reviews state that the boom doesn’t extend that far but rather more like 46 to 48 inches. That’s a big difference in reach when you evaluate sprayers.

Brinly Self-Storing Tow Sprayer with Collapsible Boom, 15-Gallon
$379.00 $329.00
  • Easily apply fertilizers, herbicides, insecticides, water and more right from the seat of your tractor
  • Collapsible break-away booms for storage and easy maneuvering through garden gates, around retaining walls and other tight areas
  • Vertical, self-storing design for minimal storage footprint: 19 in. x 24 in. of garage or shed space
  • 15 Gal. translucent white tank with oversized screw cap for easy filling and mixing
  • High-performance 1 GPM/40 psi pump with dual filtration system for extended life
  • Spray wand with 12' reinforced hose for 16' vertical spray and 28' horizontal spray
  • Extendable booms with dual spray nozzles for 70" spray coverage when towing


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03/28/2024 05:01 am GMT

7. Honorable Mention: Chapin 97600 15-Gallon, 12-Volt EZ Tow Dripless Tow Behind Sprayer

Don’t let the tank capacity of 15 gallons turn you away from how formidable this sprayer is!

It has a PVC-reinforced hose that is 15 feet long, and it can distribute 60 PSI. This sprayer’s lifespan is extended in part due to its double filtration system.

The 18-inch brass wand that comes with a brass cone nozzle gives you some reaching space to work with. This wand has a dripless shut-off function where you can lock up the spraying. A big stripe of dead grass in my backyard shows how useful a dripless shut-off function is!

Its pump runs on a 12-Volt battery, and it can deliver 2.0 GPM. Maximum vertical spray is 30 feet, and maximum horizontal spray is 26 feet, which means you have a reliable sprayer that can cover ground!

A word of warning concerning the assembly of this sprayer; the instruction manual will not help you as it mostly shows pictures instead of detailed text. Chapin could do a better job clearly explaining how to assemble the parts together.

They have a unique wording for making the sprayer’s wheel bolts “notoriously tight” with no key specifics, so yeah… don’t over-tighten the bolts.

Why I don’t recommend this sprayer:

  • Plastic frame rather than steel
  • Not durable enough for anything rougher than a golf course
  • Very crappy instruction manual
  • You have to get a bit lucky to get 2 tires that hold air
Chapin 97600 15-Gallon, 12-Volt EZ Tow Dripless Tow Behind Sprayer, 15-Gallon
$441.99
  • 15-Gallon translucent tank with 5-inch wide mouth and drain plug for easy filling and cleaning
  • Compatible with common fertilizers, weed killers and pesticides
  • Tank construction: poly, shut-off material: poly-trigger, extension wand material: brass. High performing 12-volt diaphragm pump and dual filtration system
  • Professional dripless shut off with Comfort Grip lock on/off feature, 15-ft reinforced hose and 7-ft coverage spray boom
  • Durable steel frame trailer with pneumatic tires and adjustable hitch.Spray Stream Max Vertical:up to 38-feet
Amazon
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03/27/2024 09:21 am GMT

Best Tow Behind Sprayer Buyer’s Guide

tow-behind-sprayer-high-pressure-review

Still undecided on what the best tow behind sprayer for you is? This buyer’s guide will help you get through a jungle of questions you may have about sprayers.

Key Features of the Best Tow Behind Sprayer

There are some key features to be aware of before you invest in the best tow behind sprayer. Not all sprayers are designed the same way, and each has its own set of features that may or may not suit what your yard needs. 

Types of Tow Behind Sprayers

Let’s begin with the type of sprayer that will be compatible with your yard. If you only have an ATV to work with as your primary source of transportation for yard work, you must get the type of sprayer that will hitch up to your ATV. Playing a guessing game with sprayers that may only hitch up to lawnmowers wouldn’t be ideal. 

Power Source

Most sprayers will typically use a 12-Volt battery connection to function, but other models have their own built-in engines. If you study how to power through your yard like a pro, then the type of power your sprayer runs on should matter to you.

Size of the Tank

Right behind the power is the size of the sprayer.

Various sizes are available when it comes to sprayers. Small 13-gallon units, large 55-gallon units, and everything else in between; no matter the size of your yard, there will be a sprayer that is the right size for your yard. 

Pressure (PSI)

How strong is the sprayer’s performance?

The efficiency of the sprayer’s system is expressed in PSI (Pounds per Square Inch). Generally, shoot for 70 PSI as its maximum level. Otherwise, it might not have enough power to direct the mist to the spots where your yard really needs it.

Spray Width

best-tow-behind-sprayer-nozzles

The spray width will indicate to you how far the spray actually extends. If you have a wider spray, then you will be more efficient in your work (if you want to cover a whole lawn, that is).

Look out for sprayers with booms as well – a boom extends your spray area by a lot. There are lots of different sprayers with booms, and then there are spot sprayers that just have a hose with a handheld spray attachment.

If you’re doing a whole lawn, you definitely want a boom. If you’re spot-spraying your lawn, paddock, or yard for weeds here and there, you’re probably after a spot sprayer.

A lot of tow behind sprayers can do both, so if you want true versatility, go for one of those.\

Tank Construction

A tow behind sprayer with a translucent tank that is also UV-protected is always best. Translucent tanks are ideal so you can monitor the liquid levels inside the tank. Plus, being able to see inside makes it easier to clean up after you are done.

Additionally, since most tow behind sprayers are plastic, it’s critical to ensure that the plastic they consist of is UV-protected. Too much sunlight and most plastics will melt and become brittle. We don’t want that to happen to your pricey sprayer!!

Last but not least, the plastic tank should offer some chemical resistance for when you’re working with pesticides and other dangerous chemicals.

Sprayer Hose

Last but certainly not least is the hose, a critical part of the sprayer’s functions. You will get more flexibility and maneuverability with a longer hose, but considering you’re mainly spraying while you’re sitting on the ATV or mower, length isn’t your main concern. 

Do look at the construction of the hose. If you’re going to spray chemicals, you need a hose that can handle that. If you’re only going for water, seaweed extract, and common fertilizers like that, any hose will do, as long as it’s big enough to not restrict the flow too much.

How Do You Calibrate a Sprayer With Booms?

best-tow-behind-sprayer-closeup

Even the best tow behind sprayer needs to be calibrated correctly to get the most coverage for your yard.

Here’s how to calibrate a tow behind sprayer:

  1. The first step to take is to fill your sprayer half full with water and run it for a few minutes. This is to make sure that no leaks are present.
  2. Secondly, measure the distance in inches between the nozzles. Appropriate distances for nozzle spacing are the following; 408 feet per 10-inch spacing, 272 feet per 15-inch spacing, 204 feet per 20-inch spacing, 136 feet per 30-inch spacing, and 102 feet per 40-inch spacing.
  3. After taking a test drive around your property, run the sprayer for the same amount of time you had your test drive.
  4. Store liquid that comes from each nozzle inside a single jar.
  5. Measure the average output of the sprayer’s nozzles. This output in ounces should be equal to the application rate in gallons per acre.
  6. Afterward, you may need to make adjustments until you get within 5% of the application rate, but at that point, you will be good to go.

Do I Really Need a Tow Behind Sprayer?

Let’s counter that question with these…

  • How much time do you spend using a spray bottle and refilling it over and over again?
  • Do you enjoy carrying heavy tanks around in your yard to water?
  • How big is your yard?

If the size of your yard is close to that of 1 full acre, then you should consider getting a tow behind sprayer. Chances are good that you use a riding lawn mower to begin with, so it wouldn’t be out of the ordinary to buy a tow behind sprayer. 

Basically, if you’re wondering whether you need a tow behind sprayer, you probably do!

How Important Are Wheels on a Tow Behind Sprayer?

Though I didn’t mention this at the start, the wheels on a tow behind sprayer are more important than you think.

Your riding lawn mower is pulling the sprayer, and both have to work together as a team to complete the task of covering the yard with liquids.

The first recommendation for appropriate tow behind sprayer tires should always be pneumatic tires. The more demanding your terrain is, the bigger your tires should be.

The Difference Between Broadcast and Spot Spraying

There is a big difference between these two forms of spraying.

  • A broadcast sprayer will spray an extensive area in a single session. If you have a large area that needs to be treated by fertilizers in the quickest time possible, then you go with these sprayers.
  • On the other hand, a spot sprayer will only give a concentrated spray of liquid in a specific spot. This type of sprayer is meant to spray a single bush, plant, or tree. You will spend more time covering an entire yard with only a spot sprayer.

How Do You Maintain Your Tow Behind Sprayer?

One of the best ways to properly maintain your tow behind sprayer is to keep it clean after every time you use it. This advice is simple, but it is worth mentioning because many of us tend to forget to clean our gardening machines and tools. (I’m guilty of that!)

Concerning the sprayer and its equipment, you can either run warm water through the pump to clean it, or you can use a little bit of dishwashing soap (by a little bit, I mean a drop). 

Storing tow behind sprayers can sometimes be tricky. They are best suited to being stored inside a clean, dry building like a garage during the cold winter months.

What’s the Best Tow Behind Sprayer?

NorthStar Tow-Behind Trailer Boom Broadcast and Spot Sprayer - 31-Gallon Capacity, 2.2 GPM, 12 Volt DC
$449.99
  • 12V 2.2GPM NSQ Series pump
  • 70 PSI max
  • Great chemical resistance with extra-thick walls, Santoprene diaphragm, and Viton valves.
  • Foldable booms with spot spray gun
  • Remote switch with battery clips


Get More Info
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03/27/2024 12:11 pm GMT

Taking care of your lawn can become a tall task if you don’t have the right tools and resources on hand.

The tow behind sprayer serves its own special role in lawn care. Instead of having to pick up and pull around a heavy sprayer like it’s a wheelbarrow, you can simply let your lawn mower, ATV, or tractor do that job for you.

A reliable tow behind sprayer will consistently work for you while not requiring a lot of maintenance.

The Northstar 31-gallon tow behind sprayer is a great example of one of the best tow behind sprayers. It has enough power to perform when you need it to, and its amazing spray width coverage is wonderful to behold. 

So, do you agree? Do you have a favorite tow behind sprayer we missed on this list? Or did we help you find your perfect spraying match? Let us know in the comments below!

Keep Reading:

The 7 Best Tow Behind Sprayers Including Boom and Spot Sprayers! 2023 review.

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