Managing a pasture means dealing with stubborn weeds, invasive brush, and the constant push to keep your fields productive. If you are spraying by hand or with a backpack rig, you already know how exhausting and slow that process gets across multiple acres. That is exactly where tow behind sprayers for pastures change the game.
A tow behind sprayer (also called a pull-behind or trailer sprayer) is a mobile spraying system mounted on a wheeled frame that you tow behind an ATV, UTV, tractor, or zero turn mower. A 12V electric pump draws liquid from the tank and pushes it through hoses to spray nozzles, distributing herbicide, pesticide, or fertilizer evenly as you drive. This setup saves hours of labor and delivers far more consistent coverage than manual spraying.
In this guide, our team breaks down the five best tow behind sprayers for pastures in 2026. We cover tank capacity, pump performance, boom versus boomless setups, and real-world reliability so you can match the right sprayer to your acreage. Whether you are maintaining a 2-acre food plot or managing 20 acres of pasture, you will find a recommendation that fits your needs and budget.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Tow Behind Sprayers for Pastures
NorthStar 31-Gallon Boom/Spot Sprayer
- 31-gallon tank
- 2.2 GPM NSQ pump
- 70 PSI
- Breakaway boom
Chapin 97214 25-Gallon ATV/UTV Sprayer
- 25-gallon tank
- 2.5 GPM pump
- Made in USA
- 3-stage filtration
Ironton 13-Gallon Broadcast/Spot Sprayer
- 13-gallon tank
- 1 GPM pump
- UV-resistant tank
- Bottom drain
These three stand out from the pack for different reasons. The NorthStar earns our editor’s choice for its commercial-grade pump and large tank. The Chapin 97214 delivers excellent value with a 25-gallon capacity and made-in-USA build. The Ironton rounds things out as the most affordable option for smaller properties.
Best Tow Behind Sprayers for Pastures in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| NorthStar 31-Gallon Boom/Spot Sprayer |
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| Chapin 97214 25-Gallon ATV/UTV Sprayer |
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| Ironton 13-Gallon Broadcast/Spot Sprayer |
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 Chapin 97600 15-Gallon EZ Tow Sprayer |
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 Chapin 97664 15-Gallon Tow-Behind Sprayer |
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1. NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Boom/Spot Sprayer – Commercial-Grade NSQ Pump
NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Boom/Spot Sprayer, 2.2 GPM, 12V, 70 PSI
- Commercial-grade NSQ Series pump with 100% continuous duty rating
- Spring-loaded breakaway boom prevents damage
- Dual-mode spraying for broadcast and spot application
- 31-gallon tank covers large pastures efficiently
- Wand is cheap and may need replacement
- Some leaks reported from factory
When I first looked at the NorthStar 31-gallon tow behind sprayer, what jumped out was the NSQ Series on-demand pump. This is not a budget pump that burns out after one season. NorthStar rates it for 100% continuous duty, meaning you can run it hard across a large pasture without worrying about overheating or pressure drops.
The 31-gallon tank is a real advantage for pasture work. With nearly 2,000 customer reviews and a solid 4.2-star rating, this is one of the most battle-tested sprayers on the market. I like that you can switch between the boom for broadcast coverage and the spot spray gun for targeting individual weeds along fence lines.
The spring-loaded breakaway boom is a feature that pays for itself the first time you clip a fence post. Instead of snapping the boom arm, it simply folds back and resets. On the technical side, the 70 PSI pressure rating and 2.2 GPM flow rate give you a wide, even spray pattern that covers ground quickly.
The biggest complaint from owners is the wand quality. Several users on forums mentioned replacing the stock wand with a higher-quality aftermarket option like a TeeJet. A few also reported minor leaks from factory fittings, which is worth checking before your first use.
Best Pasture Size for This Sprayer
The NorthStar 31-gallon is ideal for pastures in the 3 to 8 acre range. At a typical application rate of 10 to 20 gallons per acre, you can cover roughly 1.5 to 3 acres per tank fill. The breakaway boom and commercial pump make it well-suited for rougher terrain and regular seasonal use.
If your pasture has obstacles like trees, water troughs, or tight gateways, the dual-mode spraying lets you switch from broadcast to spot treatment without stopping. That flexibility is why this is our top pick for serious pasture managers.
Pump Longevity and Maintenance
The NSQ on-demand pump is designed to run only when you pull the trigger, which reduces wear compared to bypass-style pumps that run constantly. Users on farming forums consistently rate NorthStar pumps above the competition for durability.
To maximize pump life, always flush the system with clean water after each use. For winterization, run RV antifreeze through the pump and lines to prevent cracking. Store the sprayer out of direct UV exposure when possible to protect the tank over multiple seasons.
2. Chapin 97214 25-Gallon EZ Mount ATV/UTV Tank Sprayer – Made in USA With 3-Stage Filtration
- Made in the USA with US-based customer service
- 3-stage filtration prevents clogs
- Rust-resistant translucent tank for level monitoring
- 2.5 GPM pump delivers solid flow rate for the price
- Lower average rating at 3.9 stars
- Lighter weight may affect stability on rough terrain
The Chapin 97214 hits a sweet spot between capacity, price, and build quality. I was impressed that Chapin manufactures this unit in the USA and backs it with domestic customer service. That matters when you need a replacement part mid-season and do not want to wait weeks for shipping.
The 25-gallon tank is large enough for mid-size pastures, and the 2.5 GPM pump delivers a stronger flow rate than several competitors in this price range. The translucent tank design lets you check your chemical level at a glance, which is surprisingly convenient when you are trying to plan your next refill.
What sets the Chapin apart is the 3-stage filtration system. One of the biggest pain points forum users mention is nozzle clogging, especially when using wettable powder herbicides. Chapin addresses this with filters at the shut-off, pump, and tank opening to catch debris before it reaches your nozzles.
The EZ Mount quick-connect system is designed for ATV and UTV mounting, which is worth noting. This unit is oriented toward vehicle-mounted use rather than traditional tow-behind trailer use. Some owners adapt it for tow-behind setups, but you should confirm your vehicle compatibility before purchasing.
Filtration and Chemical Compatibility
The 3-stage filtration is a genuine advantage if you use a variety of chemicals. Wettable powders, liquid fertilizers, and herbicide mixes all benefit from pre-filtering. The translucent polyethylene tank is resistant to most common agricultural chemicals, though you should always verify compatibility with any new product.
Chapin recommends flushing the system thoroughly between different chemical types to prevent cross-contamination. This is standard practice but especially important with a multi-stage filtration system where residue can accumulate.
Setup and Mounting Considerations
The EZ Mount system is designed to attach quickly to ATV or UTV racks. If you plan to use this as a dedicated pasture sprayer behind a tow vehicle, you may want to fabricate or purchase a separate mount. The lighter weight (16.2 pounds for the empty unit) makes it easy to handle but can affect stability on uneven pasture ground.
For pasture owners who already run an ATV or UTV for property maintenance, mounting this directly on the vehicle eliminates the need for a separate trailer. That saves space and simplifies your equipment setup.
3. Ironton 13-Gallon Tow-Behind Broadcast and Spot Sprayer – Compact Design for Small Pastures
- Affordable entry point for small properties
- UV-resistant tank with molded gallon marks
- Bottom drain for easy emptying and cleaning
- Compact and lightweight at 29.4 pounds
- Smaller 13-gallon tank capacity
- Lower 1 GPM flow rate limits coverage speed
The Ironton 13-gallon is the sprayer I would point someone toward if they have a smaller pasture and a tight budget. It does the basics well without the premium price tag. The 4.2-star rating across 522 reviews tells me that most owners are satisfied with what they get for the money.
The 13-gallon capacity is admittedly small for larger pastures, but it is perfect for properties under 2 acres or for targeted spot-spraying work along fence lines and around outbuildings. The molded gallon marks on the tank make mixing chemicals straightforward, which is a nice touch at this price point.
The 1 GPM pump is the main limitation here. It works fine for the tank size, but you will not be covering large areas quickly. For broadcast spraying, expect a narrower swath than the higher-flow models. The UV-resistant tank construction is a plus, as it will hold up better to sun exposure over multiple seasons.
The bottom drain is a feature I always look for. It makes emptying and cleaning the tank much easier, especially when you need to switch between different chemicals or winterize the system at the end of the season.
Vehicle Compatibility and Hitch Type
The Ironton uses a standard pin hitch that works with most ATVs, UTVs, and lawn tractors. If you have a zero turn mower, verify the hitch compatibility before ordering, as some zero turns require an adapter. The lightweight design (under 30 pounds empty) means even smaller ATVs can tow it without strain.
This sprayer is best matched with smaller tow vehicles. If you are running a full-size tractor, this compact unit may feel undersized, but it will still get the job done for spot treatments and smaller spray jobs.
Best Use Cases for the 13-Gallon Tank
This sprayer shines for spot treatment work, small food plots, and properties under 2 acres. If you need to hit weeds along a fence line, spray around outbuildings, or maintain a small horse pasture, the 13-gallon capacity is adequate without being wasteful.
For larger pasture owners, the Ironton works well as a secondary sprayer for quick spot treatments while a larger unit handles the broadcast work. The affordable price makes it a practical addition to your equipment lineup without a major investment.
4. Chapin 97600 15-Gallon EZ Tow Dripless Fertilizer and Herbicide Sprayer – Dual Filtration System
- Professional dripless shut-off with Comfort Grip lock
- Translucent tank for easy level monitoring
- Dual filtration system prevents clogs
- 7-foot boom provides solid broadcast coverage
- Lower rating at 3.8 stars
- Longer shipping time of 2 to 3 days
The Chapin 97600 brings a thoughtful design to the mid-capacity category. I appreciate the dripless shut-off feature with the Comfort Grip lock, which prevents those annoying drips that waste chemical and create bare spots on your pasture. It is a small detail that shows Chapin pays attention to real-world use.
The 15-foot hose gives you excellent reach for spot spraying around obstacles without repositioning your tow vehicle. Combined with the 7-foot boom for broadcast coverage, this sprayer offers genuine versatility for mixed pasture and lawn applications.
The dual filtration system catches debris at two points, reducing the clogging issues that plague cheaper sprayers. The 12V diaphragm pump is a good choice for chemical resistance, as diaphragm pumps handle a wider range of agricultural chemicals than roller pumps without degrading.
The 3.8-star rating is lower than I would like to see, and shipping can take 2 to 3 days. Some owners have noted quality control inconsistencies, so inspect all fittings and connections when the unit arrives. Despite the rating, the feature set is strong for the price.
Spray Pattern and Boom Performance
The 7-foot boom creates a solid broadcast swath that is well-proportioned for the 15-gallon tank size. You get even coverage without the overspray issues that come with oversized booms on small tanks. The boom design works well for pasture lanes and open field sections.
For fence line work and targeted applications, the 15-foot hose with handheld wand lets you reach into tight spots. The dripless shut-off means you can move between spots without leaving a trail of chemical behind.
Chemical Types and Tank Material
The polyethylene tank is compatible with most common herbicides, pesticides, and liquid fertilizers used in pasture management. The translucent material lets you monitor levels easily, so you know exactly when a refill is needed.
Always flush the system after using suspension or wettable powder products, as these tend to leave residue that can clog the dual filters over time. A thorough rinse with clean water after each use will keep the system flowing smoothly.
5. Chapin 97664 15-Gallon Tow-Behind ATV/UTV Tank Sprayer – Steel Frame With Pneumatic Tires
- 15-gallon translucent tank for easy monitoring
- 3-stage filtration system
- Made in USA with US-based customer service
- Steel frame with 12-inch pneumatic tires for rough terrain
- Low stock availability
- Some durability concerns reported
The Chapin 97664 is built on a steel-frame trailer with 12-inch pneumatic tires, making it one of the more rugged options in this lineup. I like that it combines the tow-behind trailer format with Chapin’s made-in-USA build quality and 3-stage filtration system.
The 2.5 GPM pump and 60 PSI rating give you decent flow and pressure for a 15-gallon unit. The pneumatic tires handle rough pasture ground better than solid wheels, absorbing bumps that would otherwise jostle the tank and spray pattern.
Being made in the USA with domestic customer service is a genuine advantage when you need support. Parts availability is typically faster than with imported alternatives, which matters during peak spraying season when downtime costs you days.
The 3.6-star rating is the lowest in this group, and stock availability is a concern with only limited units available at times. Some owners have reported durability issues, so this is a unit where checking all connections and fittings on arrival is especially important.
Trailer Build and Ground Clearance
The steel frame construction provides a solid foundation, and the 12-inch pneumatic tires offer good ground clearance for pastures with uneven terrain. This is one of the few units in this price range that combines a proper trailer frame with a quality pump system.
The steel frame does require some maintenance to prevent rust, particularly if you store the sprayer outdoors. A coat of rust-preventive paint on exposed metal surfaces will extend the frame life significantly.
Filtration and Pump Performance
The 3-stage filtration works the same way as on the Chapin 97214, catching debris at the shut-off, pump, and tank opening. The 2.5 GPM diaphragm pump handles most pasture chemicals well and offers better chemical resistance than roller pump alternatives.
For a 15-gallon tank, the 2.5 GPM flow rate is on the higher end, which means faster coverage per tank. Just keep in mind that a higher flow rate drains the tank faster, so plan your spray routes to minimize refill trips.
How to Choose the Right Tow Behind Sprayer for Your Pasture
Choosing the right tow behind sprayer for pastures comes down to five key factors. I will walk you through each one so you can make an informed decision based on your specific property and needs.
Tank Capacity and Acreage Matching
Your tank size should match your pasture acreage to minimize refill trips. As a general rule, a 15-gallon sprayer covers about 1 acre per fill, a 25-gallon tank covers 1.5 to 2 acres, and a 31-gallon tank handles 2 to 3 acres per fill at typical application rates of 10 to 20 gallons per acre.
If you have 5 or more acres of pasture, refilling a 13-gallon tank four or five times per spraying session gets old fast. For larger properties, the NorthStar 31-gallon or Chapin 25-gallon models will save you significant time and frustration.
Pump Types: GPM and PSI Explained
GPM (gallons per minute) measures how much liquid the pump moves. Higher GPM means faster coverage but also faster tank drainage. PSI (pounds per square inch) measures spray pressure, which affects spray pattern and reach. Most pasture sprayers operate in the 40 to 70 PSI range.
Diaphragm pumps are preferred over roller pumps for pasture use because they handle a wider range of agricultural chemicals without degrading. Forum users consistently recommend diaphragm pumps for anyone using herbicides regularly. The NorthStar NSQ pump and Chapin diaphragm pumps in this guide are both solid choices.
Boom vs Boomless Nozzles for Pasture Spraying
Boom sprayers use a horizontal bar with multiple nozzles to create a wide, even spray swath. They are ideal for open pasture areas where you want consistent broadcast coverage. Most boom sprayers in this category cover a 5 to 8 foot swath per pass.
Boomless sprayers use a single nozzle or cluster to project spray outward without a boom arm. They are better for pastures with obstacles like trees, rocks, or fence lines where a boom would get damaged. Many owners on farming forums recommend boom setups for open pasture and boomless for rough terrain.
The NorthStar addresses this by offering both boom and spot spray modes in one unit, giving you the best of both worlds. If your pasture has mixed terrain, this dual-mode approach is worth the investment.
Vehicle Compatibility Guide
Most tow behind sprayers use a standard pin hitch that works with ATVs, UTVs, lawn tractors, and some zero turn mowers. Always verify hitch compatibility before purchasing, especially if you plan to tow with a zero turn, as some models require an adapter.
The pump connects to your vehicle’s 12V battery via alligator clips or a wiring harness. Make sure your battery can handle the additional draw, particularly on smaller ATVs. For frequent use, a dedicated wiring harness with an inline fuse is cleaner and more reliable than temporary clips.
Spray Coverage Calculator: How Many Acres Will Your Tank Cover?
This is one of the most common questions from pasture owners. The formula is straightforward: take your tank capacity in gallons and divide by your application rate in gallons per acre (GPA). For example, a 25-gallon tank at 15 GPA covers approximately 1.7 acres per fill.
Typical application rates for pasture herbicides range from 10 to 20 GPA depending on the chemical and nozzle type. Lower volumes (10 GPA) work for systemic herbicides, while contact herbicides often need 20 GPA or more for effective coverage. Always follow the label instructions on your specific chemical product.
At 15 GPA, here is what each tank size in our lineup covers: the 13-gallon Ironton covers about 0.85 acres, the 15-gallon Chapin models cover 1 acre, the 25-gallon Chapin covers 1.7 acres, and the 31-gallon NorthStar covers just over 2 acres per fill. Plan your spray route to match these coverage areas and minimize refill downtime.
FAQs
Which pull-behind sprayer is the best?
The NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Boom/Spot Sprayer is the best overall pull-behind sprayer for pastures, thanks to its commercial-grade NSQ on-demand pump, 31-gallon capacity, and dual boom and spot spray modes. It has nearly 2,000 reviews with a 4.2-star rating and handles pastures in the 3 to 8 acre range effectively.
How many acres will 25 gallons spray?
A 25-gallon sprayer typically covers 1.5 to 2.5 acres per fill, depending on your application rate. At 10 gallons per acre (low volume), you get 2.5 acres. At 15 gallons per acre (standard), you get approximately 1.7 acres. At 20 gallons per acre (high volume), you get 1.25 acres. Always follow the chemical label for recommended application rates.
What is the best agricultural sprayer?
The best agricultural sprayer depends on your acreage and terrain. For small to mid-size pastures, the NorthStar 31-gallon offers the best pump and durability. For budget-conscious buyers, the Ironton 13-gallon handles small properties well. For those who want a made-in-USA build, the Chapin 97214 or 97664 models offer solid filtration systems and domestic support.
What is the best yard sprayer?
For smaller yards and properties under 2 acres, the Ironton 13-Gallon Tow-Behind Sprayer is an excellent budget-friendly choice. It offers broadcast and spot spray modes, a UV-resistant tank with molded gallon marks, and a bottom drain for easy cleaning. At under 30 pounds empty, it is easy to maneuver and store.
What is the best pull-behind sprayer to buy?
Our top five recommendations are the NorthStar 31-Gallon (best overall), Chapin 97214 25-Gallon (best value), Ironton 13-Gallon (best budget), Chapin 97600 15-Gallon (best for dripless spot spraying), and Chapin 97664 15-Gallon (best steel-frame build). Match your choice to your pasture size, vehicle type, and chemical needs.
Wrapping Up
Finding the right tow behind sprayer for pastures comes down to matching tank capacity to your acreage, choosing a pump that will last multiple seasons, and selecting the boom configuration that suits your terrain. The NorthStar 31-gallon stands out as our top pick for its commercial-grade NSQ pump, dual-mode spraying, and proven track record with nearly 2,000 customer reviews.
For value-conscious buyers, the Chapin 97214 25-gallon delivers excellent capacity and filtration at a competitive price. And if you are working with a smaller property or budget, the Ironton 13-gallon covers the basics reliably. Whatever your pasture size, investing in a quality sprayer will save you hours of labor and deliver better, more consistent weed control season after season.
Take time to calibrate your sprayer before the first use, maintain the pump and filters regularly, and always winterize the system before freezing temperatures arrive. With proper care, any of these five sprayers will serve your pasture management needs well into 2026 and beyond.