A dual mode spreader for broadcast spreading and drop spreading material comprising a hopper to hold a supply of spreadable material, first and second discharge openings located within the hopper for which spreadable material can flow therethrough, an impeller mounted in a position below the hopper for rotational movement about an upright axis, wherein the first discharge opening leads to impeller to enable the spreadable material in the hopper to exit therefrom onto the impeller to be distributed in a path outwardly therefrom onto the surface to be treated; and a diffuser defining an inlet opening and an outlet opening, wherein the second discharge opening is in communication with the inlet opening to enable the spreadable material in the hopper to enter the diffuser and exit therefrom through the outlet opening to be distributed in a path downwardly therefrom onto the surface to be treated.