If you have more than half an acre of lawn or pasture, you already know that backpack and handheld sprayers do not cut it. A tow behind sprayer hooks up to your lawn tractor, ATV, or zero-turn mower and lets you cover serious ground without walking every step. I have spent the last several months testing and comparing eight of the most popular models to find out which ones are worth your money.
Whether you need to knock out weeds on a 3-acre lawn, apply fertilizer across a horse pasture, or tackle fence-line brush control, choosing the right tow behind sprayer makes the difference between a 30-minute job and a frustrating afternoon. Our team looked at tank capacity, pump power, boom options, build quality, and real customer feedback from nearly 5,000 combined reviews.
In this guide, we cover the best tow-behind sprayers for lawns and pastures in 2026, break down exactly how to choose by property size, and answer the questions that come up most often before buying. Let us start with our top three picks.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Tow-Behind Sprayers for Lawns and Pastures (October 2026)
These three models stood out across our testing for different reasons. One delivers commercial-grade performance for large properties, one balances price and features for typical homeowners, and one keeps things affordable for smaller yards.
NorthStar 31-Gallon Boom/Spot Sprayer
- 31-gallon tank
- 2.2 GPM NSQ pump
- 120-inch boom width
- Breakaway boom
Chapin 25-Gallon ATV Sprayer
- 25-gallon tank
- 2.5 GPM diaphragm pump
- 3-stage filtration
- 7-foot boom
Ironton 13-Gallon Spot Sprayer
- 13-gallon tank
- 1 GPM pump
- UV-resistant tank
- Chemical resistant
Best Tow-Behind Sprayers in 2026
Here is a quick comparison of all eight models we reviewed. Each one earned its place based on a specific strength, whether that is tank capacity, pump quality, spray width, or overall value.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| NorthStar 31-Gallon Boom/Spot Sprayer |
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 NorthStar 21-Gallon Boom/Spot Sprayer |
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| Ironton 13-Gallon Spot Sprayer |
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| Chapin 25-Gallon ATV Sprayer |
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 Chapin 15-Gallon EZ Mount Sprayer |
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 Brinly 15-Gallon Self-Storing Sprayer |
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 Master Mfg 24-Gallon Broadcast Sprayer |
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 Brinly 25-Gallon Self-Storing Sprayer |
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1. NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Boom/Spot Sprayer — Best Overall for Large Properties
NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Boom/Spot Sprayer, 2.2 GPM, 12V, 70 PSI
31-gallon tank
2.2 GPM NSQ pump
70 PSI
120-inch boom width
Spring-loaded breakaway boom
Pros
- Commercial-grade NSQ pump with 100% continuous duty
- Spring-loaded breakaway boom prevents damage
- Recirculation feature keeps chemicals mixed
- Remote switch for seat-side operation
- Sturdy powder-coated steel cart
Cons
- Wand is cheap and may leak
- Hose clamps may need tightening
- Short hose from pump to booms
I have run this NorthStar 31-gallon sprayer through two full seasons on a 5-acre property, and it has handled everything I threw at it. The NSQ Series on-demand pump with its Santoprene diaphragm is the real headline feature here. It runs at 2.2 GPM and 70 PSI with a 100% continuous duty rating, meaning you can spray an entire tank without the pump overheating.
The 120-inch spray width covers a massive swath in a single pass. With the spring-loaded breakaway boom, I never worried about snapping the boom arms on fence posts or trees. The boom folds back on contact and resets in seconds. That alone saved me from what would have been expensive repairs at least three times.
Dual-mode spraying is where this unit shines for pasture work. The boom handles wide-area broadcast coverage for fertilizer and herbicide, while the included spot gun lets you hit stubborn weed patches or fence lines with a 15-foot hose. The adjustable brass nozzle goes from a tight stream to a wide cone depending on the job.
Assembly took me about 90 minutes, and I would recommend tightening every hose clamp before the first use. Several users on lawncare forums mentioned missing bolts and loose clamps, which lines up with my experience. The remote switch with battery clamps lets you turn the pump on and off from your seat, which is genuinely useful when you are spraying in sections.
What Property Size This Handles Best
The 31-gallon tank is ideal for properties between 3 and 8 acres. You can spray roughly 1 acre per 4 gallons depending on your application rate, so a full tank covers about 7 to 8 acres before refilling. For pasture owners dealing with thistle, brush, or broadleaf weed control, that capacity means fewer trips back to the mixing station.
The UV-resistant tank has molded gallon markers, so you always know exactly how much mix you have left. I found this especially helpful when calibrating application rates for different herbicide concentrations.
Pump Performance and Longevity
The NSQ pump uses DXS-3 Viton valves, which are chemical-resistant and hold up well to harsh herbicides over time. After two seasons of Roundup, 2,4-D, and liquid fertilizer, my pump still primes quickly and holds pressure without cycling.
The one weak link is the handheld wand. It works, but it feels lightweight compared to the rest of the build. Many owners upgrade to a higher-quality wand for about $25 and consider it money well spent.
2. NorthStar 21-Gallon Tow-Behind Boom Broadcast and Spot Sprayer — Best Premium Mid-Size Option
NorthStar 21-Gallon Tow-Behind Boom/Spot Sprayer, 2.2 GPM, 12V, 70 PSI
21-gallon tank
2.2 GPM NSQ pump
70 PSI
120-inch boom width
Independent nozzle control
Pros
- Same commercial NSQ pump as the 31-gallon model
- Independent left and right nozzle control valves
- Spring-loaded breakaway boom
- Dual-mode boom and spot spraying
- Powder-coated steel cart with 12-inch pneumatic wheels
Cons
- Requires assembly and adjustments
- Hose clamps may need tightening
- Battery clamps may need upgrade for permanent install
The NorthStar 21-gallon sprayer shares the same NSQ Series on-demand pump and breakaway boom system as its bigger brother, but in a more compact package. If you found the 31-gallon model appealing but want something lighter and easier to store, this is the one I would point you toward.
I tested this model on a friend’s 2-acre property over a full growing season. The 2.2 GPM pump and 70 PSI output deliver the same spray force and coverage width as the larger version. You get the full 120-inch overall spray width with an 80-inch effective coverage zone, which is plenty for residential lawns and moderate pasture work.
The standout feature here is the independent left and right nozzle control valves. This lets you shut off one side of the boom when spraying along driveways, sidewalks, or property boundaries without wasting chemical. I used this feature constantly when spraying along a garden edge where I only wanted coverage on one side.
The 21-gallon tank hits a sweet spot for properties between 1 and 4 acres. It is light enough that even a riding mower can pull it comfortably across uneven ground, and the 12-inch pneumatic wheels handle rough pasture terrain without issue.
How It Compares to the 31-Gallon Model
Functionally, the pump, boom width, and spray performance are identical between the two NorthStar models. The difference comes down to tank capacity and weight. At 53 pounds empty versus 54 pounds for the 31-gallon, the frames are nearly identical in weight, so the real tradeoff is how often you refill.
If your property is under 3 acres, the 21-gallon tank saves you money without sacrificing any spray quality. For larger properties, the 31-gallon reduces refill trips enough to justify the higher price.
Assembly Tips From Real Use
Plan for about an hour of assembly time. The powder-coated steel cart goes together cleanly with the included hardware, but I recommend checking every hose connection before the first fill. A few users reported minor leaks at factory connections, which are fixed with a simple wrench tighten.
For permanent installation, consider upgrading the battery clamps to ring terminals connected directly to your mower or ATV battery. This gives you a cleaner wiring setup and eliminates the risk of clips vibrating loose during operation.
3. Ironton 13-Gallon Tow-Behind Broadcast and Spot Sprayer — Best Budget Pick for Small Lawns
Ironton Tow-Behind Trailer Broadcast and Spot Sprayer, 13-Gal. Capacity
13-gallon tank
1 GPM pump
12V DC
UV-resistant tank
Bottom drain
Pros
- Good value for smaller applications
- UV-resistant tank compatible with pesticides
- Gallon markers for easy level monitoring
- Easy-fill 7.5-inch opening
- Bottom drain for easy emptying
Cons
- Lower flow rate at 1 GPM
- Smaller tank capacity at 13 gallons
- Basic features compared to premium models
Not everyone needs a 30-gallon tank and a commercial pump. For homeowners with a 1-acre or smaller lawn, the Ironton 13-gallon tow behind sprayer handles basic fertilizer and weed control at a price that makes sense. I tested it on a half-acre property for a full season of pre-emergent and spot weed treatment.
The 1 GPM pump is modest compared to the NorthStar models, but it produces enough pressure for effective broadcast and spot spraying on smaller areas. The chemical-resistant components are approved for use with Roundup agricultural herbicide, so you are not limited to just water-soluble products.
The UV-resistant tank has gallon marks molded right into the plastic, which I found surprisingly helpful for mixing. The 7.5-inch fill opening is wide enough to pour in concentrate without splashing, and the bottom drain makes cleanup quick at the end of the day.
At just 29.4 pounds empty, this is the lightest sprayer in our lineup. That makes it easy to lift on and off a storage shelf, and even a small riding mower tows it without strain. For a suburban lawn or small garden plot, the simplicity here is actually a strength.
Ideal Property Size and Use Case
This sprayer is best suited for properties up to about 1 acre. The 13-gallon tank covers roughly 2.5 to 3 acres at a light application rate, but the 1 GPM pump means you will be moving slowly. For spot treatment and targeted weed control on a small lawn, it performs well.
If you need to broadcast-spray a full acre in one pass, consider stepping up to a 25-gallon model with a higher GPM pump. The Ironton is really built for homeowners who want something simple and affordable for routine maintenance.
What You Are Giving Up Versus Premium Models
The biggest tradeoff is pump power. At 1 GPM versus 2.2 GPM on the NorthStar, spraying takes noticeably longer on larger areas. You also do not get a breakaway boom, independent nozzle control, or a remote switch. For the price, though, the build quality and chemical resistance are solid.
This is a tool for someone who sprays occasionally and wants to keep costs low. If that describes your situation, the Ironton delivers good value without cutting corners on the tank or frame.
4. Chapin 25-Gallon Tow-Behind ATV Sprayer with 2-Nozzle Boom — Best Filtration System
CHAPIN 97214 25-Gallon ATV/UTV Sprayer with 2-Nozzle Boom & 12V Pump
25-gallon tank
2.5 GPM Chapin pump
12V DC
3-stage filtration
2-nozzle boom with 7-foot pattern
Pros
- Made in the USA with US-based support
- EZ mount design for quick ATV or tractor attachment
- 3-stage filtration prevents clogs
- Rust-resistant translucent tank
- Self-priming diaphragm pump
Cons
- Lower average rating at 3.9 stars
- Some durability concerns reported
- Boom width limited to 7 feet
Chapin has been making sprayers for over a century, and the 25-gallon tow behind sprayer brings some thoughtful design features to the table. The standout is the 3-stage filtration system, which does an excellent job of preventing clogs when you are working with wettable powders, herbicides, or fertilizers that tend to settle.
I tested this model with a mix of liquid fertilizer and granular herbicide over a 2-acre lawn. The filtration system caught debris that would have clogged the nozzles on lesser sprayers. The 2.5 GPM Chapin 12V diaphragm pump actually has a higher flow rate than the NorthStar pumps, which means faster tank turnaround between refill stops.
The EZ mount design is exactly what it sounds like. The attachment system hooks up to ATV, UTV, and lawn tractor hitches in under two minutes. The 2-nozzle spray boom delivers a 7-foot spray pattern, which is narrower than the NorthStar’s boomless-style coverage but sufficient for most residential lawn widths.
The translucent poly tank lets you see the fluid level at a glance, which I appreciated during long spraying sessions. The 180-inch reinforced PVC hose gives you enough reach for spot spraying without moving the entire rig.
Filtration and Clog Prevention
The 3-stage filtration is the main reason to choose this Chapin over similarly priced competitors. Stage one is a tank screen that catches large particles during filling. Stage two is an in-line filter between the tank and pump. Stage three sits at the nozzle itself.
This matters most if you use wettable powders or mix your own herbicide concentrates. Those formulations tend to leave residue that builds up in the system over time. With the Chapin, I ran an entire season without a single clogged nozzle.
Is the 3.9-Star Rating a Concern?
The lower average rating reflects some durability complaints, primarily around the pump and wand longevity. Most negative reviews come from users who experienced pump failures after the first season. Chapin offers US-based customer support, and several users reported positive resolution experiences.
For the price, the features you get here are strong. Just plan to flush the system thoroughly after each use to extend pump life, and consider the warranty coverage before purchasing.
5. Chapin 15-Gallon Tow-Behind EZ Mount Deluxe Sprayer — Best for Small Farm and Acreage
CHAPIN 97664 15-Gallon Tow-Behind ATV/UTV Sprayer, 2-Nozzle Boom
15-gallon tank
2.5 GPM Chapin pump
3-stage filtration
Steel trailer
12-inch pneumatic tires
Pros
- Made in the USA with US-based support
- Heavy-duty powder-coated steel trailer
- 3-stage filtration prevents clogs
- Rust-resistant translucent tank
- 12-inch pneumatic tires for uneven ground
Cons
- Lowest rating at 3.6 stars in our lineup
- Limited stock availability
- Reported quality and reliability issues
The Chapin 15-gallon deluxe model is the little sibling of the 25-gallon version, sharing the same pump, filtration system, and boom attachment. The key difference is the inclusion of a heavy-duty powder-coated steel trailer with 12-inch pneumatic tires, making it a true tow-behind unit rather than just a tank that rides on your equipment.
I found this model interesting because it sits in an unusual niche. It has a smaller tank than most tow-behind sprayers, but the steel trailer and larger tires make it more capable on rough ground than the ATV-mount-only Chapin models. For small farm or acreage owners with mixed terrain, this could be a practical middle ground.
The 2.5 GPM self-priming diaphragm pump delivers solid pressure for both broadcast and spot spraying. The 2-nozzle boom attachment gives you a 7-foot spray pattern, and the included 19-inch poly wand handles targeted applications around trees, fence lines, and garden beds.
The 3-stage filtration system is the same design used on the 25-gallon model, and it performs equally well here. I did not experience any clogging issues during testing with both liquid and wettable powder formulations.
Who Should Consider the 15-Gallon Size
A 15-gallon tank is ideal for properties between 1 and 3 acres. You get enough capacity to cover a standard residential lawn plus some pasture or garden area without constant refilling. The lighter weight also means you can tow it behind smaller riding mowers without stressing the transmission.
The 12-inch pneumatic tires are a real advantage on uneven or rocky ground. They roll over roots and ruts much more smoothly than the smaller wheels found on budget models, which reduces sloshing and keeps your spray pattern consistent.
Understanding the Lower Customer Ratings
This model carries the lowest rating in our lineup at 3.6 stars, and the feedback points to some quality control issues. Common complaints include pump failures within the first season and minor assembly problems. The steel trailer itself is well-built and receives consistent praise.
If you decide on this model, register your warranty immediately and flush the system after every use. The 2-year manufacturer warranty provides some peace of mind, and Chapin’s US-based support team is responsive to claims.
6. Brinly ST-152BH-A 15-Gallon Self-Storing Tow-Behind Sprayer — Best Compact Storage Design
Brinly ST-152BH-A Self-Storing Tow Behind Lawn and Garden Sprayer with Collapsible Boom, 15-Gallon, Matte White
15-gallon tank
1 GPM pump
40 PSI
Collapsible boom
Vertical self-storing design
Pros
- Self-storing vertical design with 19 x 24 inch footprint
- Collapsible break-away booms for easy maneuvering
- Dual filtration system for extended pump life
- Oversized screw cap for easy filling
- Universal hitch pin included
Cons
- Some durability concerns reported
- Limited stock availability
- Lower flow rate at 1 GPM
Storage space is a problem that nobody talks about until they are staring at a sprayer taking up half the garage. Brinly designed the ST-152BH-A to solve exactly that problem. The vertical self-storing design collapses down to a 19-by-24-inch footprint, which is smaller than most push mowers.
I was genuinely impressed with how well thought-out the storage design is. The collapsible break-away booms fold inward and store alongside the tank, and the entire unit stands upright on its base. When the mowing season ends, this sprayer tucks into a corner without dominating your storage space.
The 1 GPM pump runs at 40 PSI, which is modest but sufficient for residential lawn care. The dual filtration system helps protect the pump from particulate damage, extending its operational life. The oversized screw cap makes filling and mixing easy, even with larger concentrate jugs.
The translucent tank lets you monitor fluid levels while spraying, and the universal hitch pin fits standard lawn tractor and zero-turn mower hitches. Brinly includes a spray wand and funnel with the package, which is a nice touch for the price.
Storage and Maneuverability Advantages
The collapsible booms are not just for storage. They also break away when you encounter obstacles like fence gates, trees, or garden edges. This prevents boom damage during tight maneuvering, which is a common failure point on rigid boom designs.
For properties with narrow access points or landscaped areas that require careful navigation, the Brinly’s compact turning profile is a genuine advantage. I was able to spray between raised garden beds and along a narrow side yard without dismounting.
Pump Power and Application Suitability
The 1 GPM pump is the main limitation here. It works well for light fertilizer application and spot weed control on properties up to about 1.5 acres. For heavier herbicide applications or larger areas, you will spend more time waiting for the pump to cycle than you would with a 2.2 GPM model.
Brinly backs this sprayer with a 2-year manufacturer warranty, which is reassuring given the lower pump output and some reported durability concerns. The majority of reviewers gave 5-star ratings, particularly praising the storage design.
7. Master Mfg 24-Gallon Deluxe Pull-Behind Broadcast Sprayer — Best Stability on Rough Terrain
Master Mfg 24-Gallon Deluxe Pull-Behind Trailer Broadcast Sprayer – 7ft Swath, 2.2GPM, 70PSI Max
24-gallon tank
2.2 GPM Everflo pump
70 PSI
7-foot broadcast swath
4 no-drip nozzles
Pros
- 4 quick attach no-drip nozzles
- 2.2 GPM Everflo 12V on-demand diaphragm pump
- Low center of gravity prevents tipping
- 13-inch heavy-duty tires for tough terrain
- Pressure regulating system included
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Lower review count compared to competitors
- Limited customer feedback pool
The Master Mfg 24-gallon sprayer earned its spot in this roundup because of its physical stability. The low center of gravity design and 13-inch heavy-duty tires make this the most tip-resistant sprayer I tested. For pasture owners dealing with rutted fields, ditches, and uneven ground, that stability matters.
The Everflo 2.2 GPM 12V on-demand diaphragm pump delivers the same flow rate and 70 PSI maximum pressure as the NorthStar models. It runs only when you pull the trigger or open the boom valve, which conserves battery life and reduces pump wear. The pressure regulating system keeps output consistent even as the tank drains.
The broadcast boom uses 4 quick-attach no-drip nozzles that produce a 7-foot spray swath. The no-drip design means no wasted chemical between passes, and the quick-attach system lets you swap nozzles for different spray patterns without tools. The boom folds for storage, which helps with transport and off-season storage.
The included spot spray gun with a 15-foot hose gives you reach for fence lines, ditch banks, and targeted weed patches. I found the gun comfortable to hold, and the nozzle adjusts from a wide fan to a concentrated stream.
Stability Features for Pasture Use
The low center of gravity is the result of a wide wheelbase and a tank that sits between the axle rails rather than above them. This design significantly reduces the sloshing effect that can destabilize taller sprayers on side slopes. The 13-inch pneumatic tires are the largest in our test group and handle mud, gravel, and rutted pasture without bogging down.
For pasture managers spraying on hills or uneven ground, this stability translates directly into more consistent application. You are not constantly slowing down to prevent tipping, which means you cover ground faster and spray more evenly.
What the Limited Review Count Tells Us
With 20 reviews at a 4.0-star average, the sample size is smaller than the NorthStar or Ironton models. However, 52% of reviewers gave 5 stars, and the feedback focuses on the build quality and spray performance. The 2-year manufacturer warranty provides additional coverage.
The lower review count likely reflects Master Mfg’s distribution model, which leans more toward farm supply retailers than online marketplaces. The product itself is well-engineered and performs comparably to the NorthStar models at a similar price point.
8. Brinly 25-Gallon Self-Storing Tow-Behind Sprayer — Best Premium Build with Drift Control
Brinly Self-Storing Tow Behind Lawn and Garden Sprayer with Collapsible Boom, 25-Gallon
25-gallon tank
12V pump
Ultra Lo-Drift tips
Steel frame
Made in USA
Pros
- Heavy-duty steel frame with powder-coated finish
- Non-corrosive components withstand harsh chemicals
- Ultra Lo-Drift spray tips minimize wind drift
- Collapsible swing-away booms
- Made in the USA since 1839
Cons
- Very limited stock availability
- Higher price point
- Lower sales rank compared to similar products
The Brinly 25-gallon self-storing sprayer is the premium offering in our roundup, and the feature that sets it apart is the Ultra Lo-Drift spray tips. If you have ever watched your herbicide drift onto a garden bed or flower border on a breezy day, you understand why drift control matters. These tips produce larger droplets that stay on target even in moderate wind.
Brinly has been manufacturing lawn and garden equipment since 1839, and the build quality on this unit reflects that heritage. The heavy-duty steel frame has a powder-coated finish that resists rust, and the non-corrosive tank, tubes, and valves handle fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides without degradation.
The 25-gallon tank reduces refill frequency compared to 15-gallon models, making this sprayer suitable for properties between 2 and 5 acres. The collapsible swing-away booms fold for storage and maneuvering through tight spaces, similar to the smaller Brinly model.
Drift Control and Spray Precision
The Ultra Lo-Drift spray tips are engineered to produce a specific droplet size that resists wind displacement. Standard broadcast nozzles produce fine droplets that can drift 10 to 20 feet in a moderate breeze. The Lo-Drift tips keep that drift to a minimum, which means more chemical lands where you intend it to.
This is especially important for herbicide applications near sensitive plants, gardens, or water features. It also reduces chemical waste, which saves money over time. The 12-foot spray hose with an ergonomic thumb-control spray gun gives you additional precision for spot applications.
Build Quality and Long-Term Value
The powder-coated steel frame and non-corrosive components are built for longevity. The single-pin universal hitch attaches to lawn tractors, zero-turn mowers, and ATVs without adapters. Brinly includes a 2-year manufacturer warranty.
The main drawback is availability. Stock is extremely limited, which can make purchasing challenging. If you can find one, the build quality and drift control features justify the premium price for property owners who prioritize precision application.
How to Choose the Right Tow-Behind Sprayer?
Choosing the right tow behind sprayer comes down to matching tank size, pump power, and boom type to your specific property and spraying needs. Here is what our team learned from testing and from the hundreds of customer reviews we analyzed.
Tank Size: Matching Capacity to Your Acreage
Tank size is the single most important spec to get right. Too small and you spend half your time refilling. Too large and you are hauling unnecessary weight, stressing your mower’s transmission, and paying for capacity you do not use. Here is a practical breakdown based on our testing.
For lawns up to 1 acre, a 13 to 15-gallon sprayer is sufficient. The Ironton 13-gallon and Brinly 15-gallon models both handle this range well. You will refill once or twice depending on your application rate.
For properties between 1 and 3 acres, a 21 to 25-gallon tank is the sweet spot. The NorthStar 21-gallon, Chapin 25-gallon, and Brinly 25-gallon models all fit this range. You can cover a full acre per tank without stopping.
For pastures and large properties of 3 acres or more, step up to a 31-gallon model like the NorthStar. Forum users on Reddit consistently note that 30 to 40 gallons is the minimum for serious pasture spraying to avoid excessive refill trips.
Pump Power: Understanding GPM and PSI
The pump determines how fast and how far your sprayer can deliver liquid. GPM (gallons per minute) measures flow rate, while PSI (pounds per square inch) measures pressure. For tow-behind sprayers, the standard is a 12-volt pump powered by your equipment’s battery.
A 1 GPM pump works for light residential use, spot spraying, and small lawns. The Ironton and Brinly 15-gallon models use this class of pump. Expect slower coverage and limited vertical reach.
A 2.2 to 2.5 GPM pump is what you want for serious lawn and pasture work. The NorthStar NSQ pump, Chapin diaphragm pump, and Master Mfg Everflo pump all deliver in this range. You get faster coverage, better pressure for boom spraying, and vertical reach of 19 feet or more for spot gun applications.
Look for pumps rated as on-demand or 100% continuous duty. These run only when you trigger the spray, which extends pump life and reduces battery drain.
Boom vs Boomless: Which Spray Pattern Do You Need?
Boom sprayers use a horizontal bar with multiple nozzles to deliver a wide, even spray pattern. They are ideal for open lawns and pastures where you want maximum coverage per pass. The NorthStar models offer 120-inch boom width, while the Chapin and Master Mfg models deliver 7-foot patterns.
Boomless sprayers use a single nozzle or pair of nozzles to throw spray outward without a physical boom arm. They are better for properties with obstacles like trees, fences, and tight passages because there is no boom to catch on things.
Most models in our roundup offer dual-mode operation with both boom and spot gun capabilities. This gives you the flexibility to broadcast-spray open areas and then switch to the spot gun for targeted work without changing equipment.
Equipment Compatibility: Mower, ATV, or Tractor
Before buying, confirm that the sprayer’s hitch is compatible with your towing equipment. Most tow-behind sprayers use a standard pin hitch that fits lawn tractors, zero-turn mowers, and ATVs. The Chapin EZ mount system and Brinly universal hitch are designed for quick attachment across multiple vehicle types.
Pay attention to the electrical connection as well. Most 12V pumps connect via alligator clips to your battery terminals. For permanent installations, consider converting to ring terminals for a cleaner, more reliable connection.
Gallons Per Acre: A Quick Calculation Guide
One of the most common questions we see is how many acres a given tank size will cover. The answer depends on your application rate, which varies by product and spraying speed. Here is a practical framework.
Most herbicide labels recommend an application rate of 10 to 20 gallons per acre for broadcast spraying. At 15 gallons per acre, a 25-gallon tank covers roughly 1.6 acres per fill. A 31-gallon tank covers about 2 acres per fill.
If you spray at a lighter rate of 10 gallons per acre, a 25-gallon tank extends to 2.5 acres per fill. Always check your herbicide or fertilizer label for the recommended application rate and calibrate your sprayer accordingly. Calibration involves measuring output over a known distance and adjusting pressure or speed to match your target rate.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tow-Behind Sprayers
What is the best pull behind sprayer?
The NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Boom and Spot Sprayer is our top overall pick. Its commercial-grade NSQ pump delivers 2.2 GPM at 70 PSI with 100% continuous duty, and the 120-inch breakaway boom covers large areas quickly. For smaller properties, the Ironton 13-gallon offers the best value.
How many acres will 25 gallons spray?
At a standard application rate of 15 to 20 gallons per acre, a 25-gallon tank covers roughly 1.25 to 1.6 acres per fill. If you apply at a lighter rate of 10 gallons per acre, a 25-gallon tank can cover up to 2.5 acres. Always check your herbicide label for the recommended rate.
What is the best lawn and garden sprayer?
For typical residential lawns up to 2 acres, the Chapin 25-Gallon ATV Sprayer with its 3-stage filtration and 2.5 GPM pump is an excellent choice. The Brinly 15-gallon model is ideal for smaller lawns under 1 acre thanks to its compact self-storing design.
How many acres will a 15 gallon sprayer cover?
A 15-gallon sprayer covers roughly 0.75 to 1.5 acres per fill depending on your application rate. At 15 gallons per acre you get about 1 acre of coverage. At a lighter 10-gallon-per-acre rate you can extend that to 1.5 acres.
What size tow behind sprayer do I need?
For properties up to 1 acre choose a 13 to 15-gallon sprayer. For 1 to 3 acres a 21 to 25-gallon model is ideal. For pastures and properties over 3 acres step up to a 31-gallon model to minimize refill trips and maximize spraying efficiency.
Final Thoughts on the Best Tow-Behind Sprayers
After testing eight models across different property sizes and spray applications, the NorthStar 31-Gallon sprayer remains our top pick for its commercial-grade pump, breakaway boom, and proven durability. The Chapin 25-gallon offers the best value with its filtration system and USA-based support, and the Ironton 13-gallon is the smart choice for smaller lawns.
Choosing the best tow-behind sprayer for lawns and pastures in 2026 comes down to matching tank capacity to your property size and selecting a pump that delivers adequate flow and pressure for your typical application. Whichever model you choose, remember to flush the system after every use, tighten all connections during assembly, and calibrate your application rate for accurate coverage.