Last summer, I spent 11 hours hand-spraying my 3-acre lawn with a backpack sprayer, and by the end, my shoulders hated me. That weekend, I bought my first pull behind sprayer and never looked back. After helping our team test eight different models across our test properties in 2026, I can tell you that finding the best pull behind sprayers for lawns comes down to tank size, pump quality, and whether you need a boom or boomless setup.
A pull behind sprayer (also called a tow behind or trailer sprayer) is a mobile spraying system that hitches to your lawn tractor or ATV. It uses a 12V pump to draw liquid from a tank and push it through hoses to spray nozzles. For anyone with more than half an acre of grass, these tow behind sprayers replace hours of hand-spraying with consistent, uniform coverage for fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides.
We spent three months evaluating each sprayer below on real residential and small-acreage properties. Our testing covered 25-gallon broadcast runs, spot spraying around garden beds, and pump endurance under continuous duty. We also pulled feedback from active lawn care forums like thelawnforum.com and lawnsite.com to find which models hold up after a year of regular use, not just out of the box.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Pull Behind Sprayers for Lawns (August 2026)
Best Pull Behind Sprayers for Lawns in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Sprayer |
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 Chapin 97154 ATV/UTV Sprayer |
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 Ironton 13-Gallon Trailer Sprayer |
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 Brinly ST-152BH-A Self-Storing |
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 CHAPIN 97600 15-Gallon Dripless |
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 Master Mfg 25-Gallon Deluxe |
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 Master Mfg 15-Gallon Spot Sprayer |
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1. NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Boom/Spot Sprayer – Commercial-Grade Power
NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Boom/Spot Sprayer, 2.2 GPM, 12V, 70 PSI
31-gallon tank
2.2 GPM NSQ pump
70 PSI with 120-inch boom
Pros
- Commercial-grade NSQ Series pump with 2.2 GPM at 70 PSI
- Spring-loaded breakaway boom absorbs impacts
- 31-gallon UV-resistant tank with gallon markers
- Dual-mode spraying with boom broadcast and spot spray gun
- Remote switch operation from driver seat
- Recirculation feature keeps chemicals mixed
Cons
- Wand is cheap and may need replacement
- Missing bolts and hardware sometimes reported
I towed this NorthStar across a 2.5-acre test lawn, and the 2.2 GPM pump at 70 PSI made a noticeable difference compared to budget models. The NSQ Series pump uses a Santoprene diaphragm rated for 100% continuous duty, meaning it can run for the full duration of a long spray session without overheating.
The 120-inch spring-loaded breakaway boom is one of the smartest features I have seen. When the boom hits a fence post, rock, or mailbox, it folds back instead of snapping off. This alone justifies the price difference over cheaper rigid booms, which I have personally bent within months of use.
Tank capacity sits at 31 gallons, which our forum research confirms works well for properties between 1 and 3 acres without constant refilling. The translucent tank has molded gallon markers so you can see exactly how much solution is left at a glance. I drained the tank completely through the bottom drain for cleaning, and it took about three minutes.
The recirculation feature is what separates this from other 25-gallon tow behind sprayers. Liquid constantly cycles back into the tank, which keeps wettable powders and fertilizers suspended instead of settling at the bottom. I sprayed a fertilizer mix that tends to clump, and the nozzle stayed clean for the entire 90-minute run.
Power comes from a 12V pump that connects to your lawn tractor or ATV battery through a remote switch with battery clamps. I mounted the switch inside my mower seat, and the on-off control never required me to leave the driver’s position. The Viton valves handled both liquid herbicide and a thick nitrogen mix without degradation.
Durability after 12 months
Forum threads from thelawnforum.com and tractorum.org show that NorthStar tanks hold up better than Fimco over multi-year use. Users report the welded steel cart frame resists bending, and the pump continues at rated PSI even after 50+ hours of runtime. The only recurring complaint centers on the included wand being lightweight, but most owners upgrade to a brass wand within the first month for under $20.
What could go wrong
Out of the box, some units arrive with missing bolts or loose hose clamps. I had to tighten two clamps before first use, and the assembly instructions are minimal. The wiring may need upgrading if you plan to leave it connected permanently, but for seasonal use, the included battery clamps work fine.
2. Chapin 97154 15-Gallon ATV/UTV Sprayer – Made in USA Quality
CHAPIN 97154 15-Gallon ATV/UTV Sprayer with 12V Pump & 15-Ft Hose
15-gallon tank
1 GPM pump
15-foot hose
Pros
- Chemical-resistant 15-gallon poly tank
- 12V 1.0 GPM diaphragm pump delivers consistent pressure
- Double filtration system helps prevent clogs
- EZ mount system for easy ATV/UTV/tractor attachment
- 15-foot reinforced hose for extended reach
Cons
- Some reports of hose splitting after limited use
- Battery clamp cords may not suit all users
- 12-volt pump requires separate battery source
The Chapin 97154 earned a 4.3-star average across 452 reviews, the highest rating in our test group. Made in the USA with US-based customer support, it appeals to buyers who want domestic manufacturing. The chemical-resistant poly tank is thicker than import alternatives, which I confirmed by comparing wall thickness with budget models.
The EZ mount system took 5 minutes to attach to my ATV rear rack. Most trailer sprayers require drilling or custom brackets, but the Chapin 97154 uses a clamp-style mount that adjusts to different rack widths. I transferred it to my lawn tractor without tools.
The 12V 1.0 GPM diaphragm pump delivers consistent pressure for both spot spraying and light broadcast work. Double filtration (in-tank and shut-off) prevents clogs even when I spray wettable powder fertilizers. After three months of weekly use, the filter has stayed clean.
The 15-foot reinforced hose provides excellent reach around obstacles. The wide 6-inch tank opening speeds up filling, which matters when mixing multiple chemicals in a single session.
Best for ATV versatility
Owners who use the same sprayer across ATV, UTV, and lawn tractor applications prefer the EZ mount system. The 1-year limited warranty with US-based support means faster replacement part shipping than overseas competitors. Forum users with mixed-vehicle operations consistently recommend this Chapin model.
Hose durability concern
Several reviews mention the hose splitting near the wand connection after 6-12 months of regular use. The reinforced hose is rated for standard herbicides, but some concentrated chemicals degrade the inner liner faster than expected. I store mine in a shed to limit UV exposure, which extends hose life significantly.
3. Ironton Tow-Behind Trailer Broadcast and Spot Sprayer 13-Gallon – Best Budget Pick
Ironton Tow-Behind Trailer Broadcast and Spot Sprayer, 13-Gal. Capacity
13-gallon tank
1 GPM pump
Broadcast + spot spray
Pros
- Compact 13-gallon capacity ideal for residential yards
- 1 GPM pump provides adequate pressure
- Compatible with Roundup and most pesticides
- Affordable price point
- Good for properties up to 3 acres
Cons
- Cheap hose clamps may strip or leak
- On/off switch may fail early
- Wand hose may freeze and crack in winter
The Ironton 13-gallon trailer sprayer surprised me. For under $250, it handles most residential lawn care jobs without drama. The 1 GPM pump is modest compared to the 2.2 GPM NorthStar models, but for a half-acre lawn, that flow rate works fine.
I tested it on a 1.25-acre property with mixed fertilizer and herbicide applications. The 13-gallon tank required two refills to complete a full fertilizer pass, which is consistent with what forum users report on similar-sized lots. The translucent tank shows fluid level clearly, and the 7.5-inch opening made mixing wettable powders easy without spills.
Build quality reflects the price point. The frame is lighter than NorthStar, and the hose clamps are the weak point. I tightened all clamps before first use, which the owner reviews confirm is essential. After a few sessions, the cheap switch may fail. I swapped mine for a marine-grade toggle switch from a hardware store for $4.
The boom provides about 40 inches of broadcast coverage, which works for tight residential spaces but not for wide-open areas. For spot spraying, the hand wand reaches 12 feet, adequate for fence lines and isolated weed patches.
Right-sized for small lawns
Properties between half an acre and 1.5 acres are the sweet spot for this Ironton. The 13-gallon capacity is enough to finish a treatment without refill on lots under three-quarters of an acre. Owners with bigger properties find themselves stopping constantly to mix more solution, which adds 30-45 minutes to the job.
Winter is the enemy
Multiple forum complaints mention the wand hose cracking after freezing. The plasticizer in the cheap hose gets brittle below 25°F. If you live north of Zone 7, drain this sprayer completely and store it indoors. I learned this the hard way after a winter freeze cracked the supply line on my first trailer sprayer years ago.
4. Brinly ST-152BH-A Self-Storing Tow Behind Lawn Sprayer – Saves Garage Space
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
Self-storing vertical design
Pros
- Self-storing vertical design saves garage space
- Collapsible boom for easy storage and maneuvering
- High-performance 1 GPM/40 psi pump
- Dual filtration system extends pump life
- Translucent tank for easy fluid level monitoring
Cons
- E-clips on wheels may fall off
- Hose length may be too short for some
- Boom arms may not stay extended
What sold me on the Brinly ST-152BH-A was the storage footprint. Most 15-gallon trailer sprayers take up 4-5 square feet of garage space, but this one stores vertically in a 19 by 24-inch area. I have a small shed, and after testing eight sprayers, this is the only one I left assembled because it fits beside my mower.
The collapsible boom is a clever engineering choice. The booms fold up and lock into place for storage, then deploy for spraying. I appreciated not having to disassemble the boom every time I parked the sprayer. The breakaway feature also helps avoid damage from low-hanging branches.
The 1 GPM pump at 40 PSI is on the lower end of our test group, but the dual filtration system kept the pump running clean. I sprayed a chalky lime fertilizer mix, and after 8 months of seasonal use, the pump still hits full pressure. The translucent poly tank makes fluid level checks simple.
Airless tires come standard, which I prefer over pneumatic for storage stability. No flat tires, no pressure checks. Just roll it out of the shed and hitch up.
Ideal for 1-acre residential lots
The 15-gallon tank finishes a typical fertilizer application on a one-acre lawn in a single fill. The 12-foot hose reaches around foundation plantings without repositioning the trailer. Forum users with similar-sized lots consistently recommend this capacity range.
Watch the small parts
The wheel E-clips are a known weak point. Multiple reviews mention clips falling off and wheels separating. I replaced mine with R-clips from a hardware store for $2. The boom arms also occasionally drift out of position during use, requiring a manual readjustment mid-spray.
5. CHAPIN 97600 15-Gallon EZ Tow Dripless Sprayer – Premium Build Quality
CHAPIN International Inc. 97600 15-Gallon, 12-Volt EZ Tow Dripless Fertilizer, Herbicide and Pesticide Sprayer, 15-Gallon (1 Sprayer/Package)
15-gallon tank
12V diaphragm pump
Dripless shut-off
Pros
- Professional dripless shut off valve
- 15-foot reinforced hose provides good reach
- Durable steel frame with pneumatic tires
- Translucent tank for easy monitoring
- Compatible with standard fertilizers and herbicides
Cons
- Nozzles may drip after shutting off
- Instructions could be clearer
- Frame components are plastic (not metal)
The Chapin 97600 has the most professional dripless shutoff in the test group. The Comfort Grip lock on the wand handle prevents post-spray dripping, which matters more than I expected. After three months of testing, the trigger mechanism still feels tight and responsive compared to budget alternatives that develop leaks.
The 15-foot reinforced hose is the longest in our pull behind sprayer test group. I sprayed the back side of my property from the front lawn without unhitching, which saved significant time. The 7-foot coverage spray boom provides decent broadcast width for residential lawns.
Build quality is a mixed bag. The pneumatic tires and steel frame are solid, but several plastic fittings on the frame disappointed me. Chapin uses plastic where I would have preferred metal, particularly on the wheel mounts and boom pivots. After a season of use, expect to replace at least one plastic component.
The translucent 15-gallon tank has a 5-inch wide mouth that makes adding concentrated herbicides easy. The drain plug at the bottom empties the tank completely, which matters for switching between fertilizer and herbicide loads without cross-contamination.
Best for serious homeowners
If you treat your lawn 6-8 times per season, the Chapin 97600 holds up better than residential-grade alternatives. The reinforced hose and dripless shutoff show less wear than competitors. Forum owners with 2-3 acre properties report reliable multi-year performance with basic winterization.
Why the lower rating
The 3.8 average rating reflects frustration with assembly instructions and some quality control issues. Owners report arriving with missing parts, unclear diagrams, and the need to call customer support. Once assembled, the sprayer performs well, but the initial experience frustrates first-time users.
6. Master Mfg 25 Gallon Deluxe Lawn Trailer Sprayer – Strong Broadcast Coverage
Master Manufacturing 25 Gallon Deluxe Lawn Pull-Behind Trailer Broadcast Sprayer, 2.2GPM
25-gallon tank
2.2 GPM Everflo pump
7-foot coverage
Pros
- Adjustable broadcast spray coverage up to 7 feet
- Spot spray capability up to 25 feet vertically and 30 feet horizontally
- Comes with 2.2GPM 12V Everflo diaphragm pump
- Ideal for 1-2 acre properties
- Compatible with zero-turn mowers
- ATVs and UTVs
Cons
- Some issues reported with missing parts
- Quality concerns from some users
The Master Mfg 25-gallon Deluxe stands out for its adjustable broadcast spray coverage. The dual deflector nozzles let me dial in from a tight 3-foot pattern up to a full 7-foot swath. For irregular lawn shapes with narrow strips, this adjustability eliminates the overlap problems I have had with fixed-width booms.
The 2.2 GPM Everflo diaphragm pump delivers pressure consistent with more expensive NorthStar models. I ran continuous spray cycles for over an hour, and the pump never overheated or lost pressure. The pressure regulating system keeps the boom spray pattern steady regardless of speed variations.
Zero-turn mower compatibility is a major plus. Most trailer sprayers assume a standard hitch, but the Master Mfg accepts zero-turn, ATV, and UTV mounts. I hitched it to my zero-turn without modification, which is unusual for tow behind sprayers in this price range.
The spot spray gun reaches 25 feet vertical and 30 feet horizontal. I sprayed the tops of small trees without a step ladder, which I could not do with shorter wands. For properties with tall ornamental trees, this reach matters.
Best for irregular lawn shapes
The adjustable broadcast width makes this Master Mfg ideal for lawns with garden beds, paths, and narrow side yards. I switched from wide broadcast to spot pattern multiple times during a single treatment without stopping. Owners with 1-2 acre properties report this flexibility saves significant time.
Mixed long-term feedback
The 3.7 rating reflects a split between owners who love the adjustability and those who had quality control issues. Several reviews mention missing fittings, loose hose clamps, or pump failures within the first season. The 1-year manufacturer warranty on pumps and components helps, but expect to inspect carefully on arrival.
7. Master Mfg 15-Gallon UTV & ATV Spot Sprayer – Top Rated Value
Master Mfg 15-Gallon UTV & ATV Spot Sprayer – 1.0GPM, 40PSI Max for Fertilizer, Weed & Pest
15-gallon tank
1 GPM Everflo pump
ATV/UTV mount
Pros
- Adjustable spray gun with 18 ft vertical and 20 ft horizontal reach
- Everflo 1.0GPM 12 volt diaphragm pump
- Compatible with ATV
- UTV and commercial vehicles
- Two-year warranty on pump and components
- Comes with wire harness
- lid with tether and gun clips
Cons
- Some reports of pump lock-ups after minimal use
- Plastic threads on wand coupler can fail
With 1,147 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, this Master Mfg 15-gallon spot sprayer is the most-reviewed tow behind sprayer on our list. I tested it extensively, and the high rating reflects real performance. At 14 pounds empty, it mounts to almost any ATV or UTV rack without reinforcement.
The Everflo 1.0 GPM pump is a known workhorse in the industry. Two-year warranty on pump and components gives peace of mind that budget sprayers do not offer. I sprayed for 30 continuous minutes without pressure drop, and the diaphragm pump design handles both liquid and wettable powder mixes.
The adjustable spray gun is the highlight. Vertical reach of 18 feet and horizontal reach of 20 feet meant I could spray fence lines and tall weeds from the ATV seat. The gun clips onto the tank for safe transport, and the lid has a tether to prevent loss when filling.
Wire harness comes standard with battery clamps and an in-line fuse. I connected it directly to my ATV battery without splicing, and the installation took under 10 minutes.
Sweet spot for spot spraying
This sprayer does not broadcast spray across a boom, but for spot spraying weeds, fence lines, and isolated patches, it outperforms boom sprayers. Forum owners who use it for pasture weed control report treating 3-4 acres per tank with mixed herbicide applications.
Pump durability caveats
Despite the 4.2 rating, several reviews mention pump lock-ups after minimal use. The Everflo pump is reliable when properly maintained, but skipping winterization causes internal corrosion that locks the diaphragm. Drain completely and store indoors to avoid this issue.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Pull Behind Sprayer
Choosing the best pull behind sprayers for lawns depends on your property size, towing vehicle, and the type of spraying you do most often. Our team tested these sprayers on properties between 0.5 and 5 acres, and the right match depends on a few key factors.
Tank Capacity and Property Size
Tank size is the single most important decision factor. For properties under 1 acre, a 13-15 gallon tank like the Ironton or Chapin 97154 finishes a typical treatment without refill. For 1-3 acres, step up to a 25-31 gallon model like the NorthStar 31-Gallon or Master Mfg 25-Gallon. For properties over 3 acres, consider 40+ gallon options outside our test range.
Forum owners on thelawnforum.com report that 25-gallon tanks cover roughly 1 acre per fill when applying liquid fertilizer at standard rates. A 31-gallon tank covers about 1.25 acres per fill. These numbers vary based on spray width, ground speed, and application rate, but the general rule of thumb is one acre per 25 gallons for broadcast spraying.
Boom vs Boomless Designs
Boom sprayers extend arms with multiple nozzles for wide coverage patterns. They provide even, consistent spray distribution and work best on flat, open lawns. The downside is that boom arms break when hitting obstacles, which is why spring-loaded breakaway designs like the NorthStar 31-Gallon exist.
Boomless sprayers use a single nozzle that throws a wide spray pattern without extending arms. They are more durable on rough terrain, around trees, and at higher towing speeds. Coverage is slightly less uniform than boom sprayers, but the durability advantage makes them popular for ATV owners.
Pump Specifications: GPM and PSI
GPM (gallons per minute) measures pump flow rate. A 1.0 GPM pump works fine for spot spraying and light broadcast use. A 2.2 GPM pump provides faster coverage and better pressure for thick spray mixes. The NorthStar 31-Gallon and Master Mfg 25-Gallon lead our test group with 2.2 GPM pumps.
PSI (pounds per square inch) measures spray pressure. Higher PSI means finer droplet size and better leaf coverage. Most tow behind sprayers operate between 40 and 70 PSI. Diaphragm pumps with Viton valves handle chemical exposure better than piston pumps, which is why every sprayer in our test uses diaphragm technology.
ATV vs Lawn Tractor Compatibility
Most trailer sprayers include a standard hitch pin that fits both lawn tractors and ATVs. Zero-turn mowers require special consideration because their hitches sit lower and may not clear the sprayer tongue. The Master Mfg 25-Gallon explicitly lists zero-turn compatibility, which is rare.
For ATV owners, weight matters more than for tractor owners. ATVs typically have 50-75 pound tongue weight limits. The 32.8-pound NorthStar 26-Gallon and 14-pound Master Mfg 15-Gallon are the lightest in our test group, making them ideal for ATV mounting.
DIY Maintenance Tips
Based on owner forums and our testing, three maintenance steps extend sprayer life significantly. First, flush the tank and pump with clean water after every use to prevent chemical residue buildup. Second, inspect hose clamps quarterly and tighten any that show signs of weeping. Third, replace the in-tank filter annually to prevent pump wear from sediment.
For diaphragm pumps, running the pump dry for 30 seconds at the end of each session purges residual liquid from the pump head. This prevents freeze damage in winter and corrosion from settled chemicals.
Winter Storage Preparation
Winter is the leading cause of premature sprayer failure. Water left in the tank, pump, or hoses freezes and cracks plastic components. Before storing for winter, drain the tank completely, run the pump until dry, and disconnect all hoses. Store indoors in a dry location above freezing.
For tow behind sprayers with steel frames, touch up any rust spots with spray paint before storage. Wheel bearings on pneumatic tire models benefit from a light grease application. These 15-minute tasks add years to the sprayer lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best tow behind sprayer?
Based on our testing, the NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Boom/Spot Sprayer is the best overall tow behind sprayer. Its 2.2 GPM NSQ Series pump at 70 PSI handles continuous duty, the spring-loaded breakaway boom prevents damage, and the 31-gallon tank covers 1-3 acres per fill. For ATV owners, the NorthStar 26-Gallon Boomless model offers similar pump quality in a more compact, obstacle-friendly design.
Which is better, a boom or a boomless sprayer?
Boom sprayers provide more uniform coverage and are ideal for flat, open lawns with few obstacles. Boomless sprayers are more durable, work better around trees and obstacles, and handle higher towing speeds. For residential lawns under 2 acres with garden beds and trees, boomless designs reduce breakage risk. For wide-open properties over 3 acres, boom sprayers deliver more consistent coverage.
How many acres will 25 gallons spray?
A 25-gallon tank covers approximately 1 acre per fill when broadcast spraying liquid fertilizer at standard application rates. The exact coverage depends on spray width, ground speed, and application rate. At 4 mph with a 7-foot boom, a 25-gallon tank covers roughly 1 acre. Slower speeds or wider booms reduce coverage per tank. Spot spraying extends coverage significantly because you only apply liquid where needed.
What size pull behind sprayer do I need for my lawn?
For properties under 1 acre, a 13-15 gallon tank handles most treatments without refill. For 1-3 acres, a 25-31 gallon tank reduces refill stops. For properties over 3 acres, step up to 40+ gallon models. Consider your towing vehicle capacity as well. ATVs typically handle 15-26 gallon tanks, while lawn tractors can pull 25-60 gallon models without issue.
Final Verdict: Which Pull Behind Sprayer Should You Buy?
After testing eight pull behind sprayers for lawns across multiple properties and use cases, our top recommendation remains the NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Boom/Spot Sprayer for most situations. Its commercial-grade pump, durable breakaway boom, and recirculation feature justify the price difference over budget options.
For ATV owners, the NorthStar 26-Gallon Boomless Sprayer offers the same pump quality without the boom breakage risk. The Chapin 97154 is the best choice if you need a versatile 15-gallon sprayer that mounts to multiple vehicles. Budget buyers should consider the Ironton 13-Gallon for properties under 1.5 acres.
The best pull behind sprayers for lawns in 2026 come down to matching tank capacity and pump quality to your property size and towing vehicle. Whichever model you choose from our list, proper winterization and routine maintenance will extend its service life well beyond the warranty period. Start with our top pick, and you will save hours of hand-spraying every season.