Photo: Scotts
A green and lush lawn is a sight to behold. However, it is difficult to get such a high-quality lawn if you leave it to nature alone.
The secret known by experts to getting the perfect lawn is using an appropriate lawn fertilizer.
Just like a human body needs food for energy and vitality, the lawn needs those extra nutrients to get a more vibrant color.
Therefore, if you are the proud owner of a lawn then you absolutely must invest in quality lawn fertilizers.
Our lawn fertilizer review below contains some handpicked fertilizers that are used by both experts and amateur gardeners alike. Let’s check them out!
In this post:
- 10 Best Lawn Fertilizers – Review
- 1. Miracle-Gro 1001834 – High Phosphorus Levels
- 2. Milorganite 0636 – Fully Organic Lawn Fertilizer
- 3. Simple Lawn Solutions Lawn Fertilizer – Easy to Apply by Beginners
- 4. The Andersons Super Juice Lawn Fertilizer – Superior Coverage Capacity
- 5. Scotts Turf Builder 38615 – Specific Lawn Fertilizer for the Fall
- 6. Safer Brand Ringer SA9333 – No Bad Odors and Fully Organic
- 7. Scotts Turf Builder 22305 – Superior Nitrogen Content
- 8. Scotts Turf Builder 21701 – Most Affordable Solution
- 9. Scotts Snap 21270 – Excellent All-purpose Fertilizer
- 10. Scotts Turf Builder 23410E – Excellent Price to Coverage Ratio
- How to Buy the Best Lawn Fertilizer
- When to Fertilize the Lawn?
- Conclusion
10 Best Lawn Fertilizers – Review
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Miracle-Gro 1001834 (High Phosphorus Levels) |
| |
 | 2. Milorganite 0636 (Fully Organic) |
| |
 | 3. Simple Lawn Solutions Lawn Fertilizer (Easy to Apply by Beginners) |
| |
 | 4. The Andersons Super Juice Lawn Fertilizer (Superior Coverage Capacity) |
| |
 | 5. Scotts Turf Builder 38615 (Specific for the Fall) |
| |
 | 6. Safer Brand Ringer SA9333 (No Bad Odors & Fully Organic) |
| |
 | 7. Scotts Turf Builder 22305 (Superior Nitrogen Content) |
| |
 | 8. Scotts Turf Builder 21701 (Most Affordable) |
| |
 | 9. Scotts Snap 21270 (Excellent All-purpose Fertilizer) |
| |
 | 10. Scotts Turf Builder 23410E (Excellent Price to Coverage Ratio) |
|
PRODUCT |
|---|
1. Miracle-Gro 1001834 (High Phosphorus Levels)
|
2. Milorganite 0636 (Fully Organic)
|
3. Simple Lawn Solutions Lawn Fertilizer (Easy to Apply by Beginners)
|
4. The Andersons Super Juice Lawn Fertilizer (Superior Coverage Capacity)
|
5. Scotts Turf Builder 38615 (Specific for the Fall)
|
6. Safer Brand Ringer SA9333 (No Bad Odors & Fully Organic)
|
7. Scotts Turf Builder 22305 (Superior Nitrogen Content)
|
8. Scotts Turf Builder 21701 (Most Affordable)
|
9. Scotts Snap 21270 (Excellent All-purpose Fertilizer)
|
10. Scotts Turf Builder 23410E (Excellent Price to Coverage Ratio)
|
1. Miracle-Gro 1001834 – High Phosphorus Levels
Photo: Miracle-Gro
- Type: Water Soluble
- NPK ratio: 15-30-15
- Coverage: 4,000 square feet
- Capacity: 5 lbs
Miracle-Gro 1001834 is a lawn fertilizer that has a very high concentration of phosphorus. In fact, it is composed of 15% nitrogen, 30% phosphorus, and 15% potassium. This shows that this product is ideally suited for spring fertilization as this will strengthen the roots of your lawn.
It has decent coverage of 4,000 square feet and competitively priced as well. You get 5 lbs of lawn fertilizer with this purchase, and it comes in an airtight container. You can safely store this fertilizer without it clumping together due to humidity.
Moreover, it is very fast-acting, and the preparation is simple. All you need to do is add water to this fertilizer, and you are good to go.
All things considered, Miracle-Gro 1001834 is one of the best lawn fertilizers for spring on the market.
The only disadvantage is with this product is that it can easily kill grass if not applied correctly. Also, you will need a dedicated Miracle-Gro Sprayer in order by this fertilizer as the manufacturer intended.
Notes: You do not get a Miracle Go Sprayer with this purchase even if the pictures may suggest otherwise.
Pros:
- Contains 30% phosphorus. Excellent fertilizer for spring
- Superior coverage of 4,000 square feet per 5 lbs of fertilizer
- Start acting in the soil fast
- It comes in an airtight container. Good storage life
Cons:
- It can kill the grass if not applied correctly
- Difficult to apply without a Miracle Go sprayer
2. Milorganite 0636 – Fully Organic Lawn Fertilizer
Photo: Milorganite
- Type: Granular Slow Release
- NPK ratio: 6-4-0
- Coverage: 2,500 square feet
- Capacity: 36 lbs
One of the best things about Milorganite 0636 is that it is fully organic. It does not have synthetic compounds, and you can immediately start using your lawn after application.
This fertilizer comes in granular form, and one of the best things about it is that you do not need a specific type of sprayer.
Moreover, it contains special components that help serve as a deterrent for deer. If you live in an environment where there is a lot of fauna and grass grazing is a problem, then the Milorganite 0636 is one of the best fertilizers for grass that you can buy.
However, this is not a perfect fertilizer. It comes in a 36 lbs bag, which is heavy and difficult to lift. Especially if you have a week back.
Also, it has poor coverage of 2,500 square feet, so it can quickly get expensive if you have a large lawn to cover.
Pros:
- Fully organic with no synthetic compounds
- You can use your lawn just after application
- It can be used with any type of sprayer
- Effective deer deterrent
Cons:
- A weak coverage of 2,500 square feet for the price
- The heavy bag of 36 lbs. Difficult to lift
3. Simple Lawn Solutions Lawn Fertilizer – Easy to Apply by Beginners
Photo: Simple Lawn Solutions
- Type: Liquid Fertilizer
- NPK ratio: 16-4-8
- Coverage: 32,000 square feet
- Capacity: 2.5 gallons
One of the biggest advantages of this specific lawn fertilizer is that it comes in liquid form. This means that there is no complex preparation to perform.
You get 2.5 gallons of lawn fertilizer with this purchase, which is enough to cover an impressive 32,000 square feet. It will allow you to fertilize a large surface area.
Additionally, the NPK ratio of 16-4-8 shows that this fertilizer has a good balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is richer in nitrogen, so it is best used to fertilize grass in order to create strong roots in the winter or spring.
Best, it contains organic ingredients, which makes it safer to use by beginners. The possibility of burning your lawn with this fertilizer is minimal. It is the best liquid fertilizer for grass in this review.
However, is above $100 and quite expensive. Also, it is diluted and made from organic compounds, so it lacks the strength of granular lawn fertilizer. You may not see the results immediately.
Pros:
- No preparation is necessary. Very easy to apply by beginners
- It has impressive coverage of 32,000 square feet
- Good balance between nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium
Cons:
- The price. It is expensive
- A bit weak. Takes longer than average to act
4. The Andersons Super Juice Lawn Fertilizer – Superior Coverage Capacity
Photo: The Andersons
- Type: Water Soluble
- NPK ratio: 14-2-4
- Coverage: 43,560 square feet
- Capacity: 12.34 lbs
The Super Juice by The Anderson is an all-in-one solution that contains all the necessary nutrients for your lawn grass to grow lush green. But what makes this fertilizer a true winner is its very extensive coverage of 43,560 square feet.
Since this is a dry mix fertilizer, all you must do is add water to it, and you are good to go.
One of the best things about this top-rated lawn fertilizer remains its versatility. When preparing, you can double the amount of water to reduce its strength by half to an NPK ratio of 7-1-2.
The only downsides to this lawn fertilizer are its high upfront price. But considering its large coverage, it’s worth the investment. Also, it can easily clog the nozzle of your sprayer, so you will need immediate cleaning after usage.
Pros:
- Very extensive coverage of 43,560 square feet
- Good value considering the coverage
- It comes as a dry mix. Easy to prepare by simply adding water
- Versatile. Its strength can easily be reduced
Cons:
- The price. It is expensive
- Clogs the sprayer nozzle easily
5. Scotts Turf Builder 38615 – Specific Lawn Fertilizer for the Fall
Photo: Scotts
- Type: Granular Slow Release
- Coverage: 15,000 square feet
- Capacity: 37.5 lbs
If you need a lawn fertilizer to apply during the fall for the next winter, the Scotts Turf Builder 38615 is an excellent choice. It has been designed in a way to strengthen the roots of the grass.
One of the best things about this specific lawn fertilizer is that you can use it on any type of grass.
In addition, since this is a slow-release fertilizer in granular form, its application is very easy. It provides long-lasting protection and nourishment to your grass all through winter and spring.
The only caveats we note with it is that it can easily clump in the bag. Especially if it gets humidity. Also, you need to be careful during fertilization because it is quite strong and can easily burn sensitive grass.
But regardless, the Scotts Turf Builder 38615 remains one of the best lawn fertilizers for winter out there.
Pros:
- Decent coverage of 15,000 square feet
- A specific fertilizer for the fall
- It does not require regular application
- Can be used on any type of grass
Cons:
- It can easily clump in the bag
- This fertilizer can easily burn grass if not applied correctly
6. Safer Brand Ringer SA9333 – No Bad Odors and Fully Organic
Photo: Safer Brand
- Type: Granular Slow Release
- NPK ratio: 10-0-6
- Coverage: 5,000 square feet
- Capacity: 25 lbs
Many people are often put off from fertilizing their lawn because it has such a strong and unpleasant smell. If that is the case, then you will have no problem with the Safer Brand Ringer SA9333 because it does not have any bad odors.
What we like about this lawn fertilizer is that it is fully organic. There are no bio-solids or animal products in this fertilizer. It is made 100% from organic plants by composting.
The only thing that we didn’t like about it is that when compared to other lawn fertilizers in this review, it is quite weak with its NPK ratio of 10-0-6.
Also, since this is a fully organic lawn fertilizer, it will take much longer to act than its synthetic counterpart.
However, this product is still an excellent purchase, especially for those looking for a lawn fertilizer that does not produce odors and can be used all year round.
Pros:
- Does not produce any odors
- 100% organic with no animal or bio-solids
- Good coverage of 5,000 square feet
- Excellent all-purpose fertilizer. Can be used all year round
Cons:
- Not very strong. May need multiple applications
- Takes longer than average to act
7. Scotts Turf Builder 22305 – Superior Nitrogen Content
Photo: Scotts
- Type: Granular Slow Release
- NPK ratio: 32-0-4
- Coverage: 5,000 square feet
- Capacity: 12.5 lbs
With its NPK ratio of 32-0-4, the Scotts Turf Builder 22305 is a specialist lawn fertilizer with a very high concentration of nitrogen. This shows that this specific fertilizer is made to provide thick and healthy foliage to your grass.
If you like your grass to look thick and lush green all during summer, then you need to apply this fertilizer in spring.
Best of all, the price is quite attractive, and considering that it has a large coverage of 5,000 square feet, you get a lot of value for your money here.
Also, you can purchase this product in different sizes if the standard 12.5 lbs capacity is too much or not enough for your needs.
However, you need to follow the instructions carefully. Else, this lawn fertilizer can develop yellow spots or literally burn your grass because it is quite strong.
But regardless, and based on its NPK ratio, this product still qualifies as one of the best nitrogen fertilizers for lawns in this review.
Pros:
- Contained 32% nitrogen. Helps develop thick foliage in grass
- Decent coverage of 5,000 square feet for the price
- Helps the soil absorb water and nutrients better
Cons:
- It can make your lawn develop yellow spots
8. Scotts Turf Builder 21701 – Most Affordable Solution
Photo: Scotts
- Type: Granular Slow Release
- NPK ratio: 24-25-4
- Coverage: 1,000 square feet
- Capacity: 3 lbs
The Scotts Turf Builder 21701 is the best lawn fertilizer for grass root growth when it comes to price. There are no other fertilizers in this review that can beat it.
This lawn fertilizer has been specially formulated to grow grass 70% thicker when compared to the competition. It has an NPK ratio of 24-25-4, which shows that it has a relatively high concentration of nitrogen and phosphorus.
Therefore, it is ideal for not only Spring fertilization where the grass is developing strong roots, but also during summer to get healthy and thick foliage.
This lawn fertilizer can be used for any type of lawn, regardless of the species of grass.
The only caveat we have with this fertilizer is that a few customers have noted that it has a short-acting time of 6 weeks.
Notes: This product comes in a bigger capacity of 5,000 square feet if you have greater demands.
Pros:
- Most affordable solution. Great value
- Excellent for both spring and summer fertilization
- Safe to use on any grass species
Cons:
- Relatively short acting time of 6 weeks only
9. Scotts Snap 21270 – Excellent All-purpose Fertilizer
Photo: Scotts
- Type: Granular Slow Release
- NPK ratio: 20-0-4
- Coverage: 4,000 square feet
- Capacity: 12.8 lbs
The Scotts Snap 21270 is one of the best all-purpose fertilizers that you will find in this lawn fertilizer review. This product can be used in any season, whether it is spring or fall. Above all, you can use it on any type of grass species, and it will work equally well.
One of the best things about this fertilizer is that it comes in a wide range of styles. If you want insect control, you have it. It comes with a special formulation for the development of new sprouts or full-grown grass that is exposed to strong and direct sunlight.
The only issue we have with this fertilizer is that it does not have phosphorus.
Additionally, in order to apply this fertilizer optimally, you need a Scotts Snap Spreader, which can be bought separately. However, if you have this spreader, it is extremely easy to use and remains a good purchase.
Pros:
- Can be used in any season
- Works on any grass species
- Simple and user-friendly lawn fertilizer
- Decent coverage of 4,000 square feet
Cons:
- No phosphorus contents
- Requires a special Scotts Snap Spreader for proper application
10. Scotts Turf Builder 23410E – Excellent Price to Coverage Ratio
Photo: Scotts
- Type: Granular Slow Release
- NPK ratio: 32-0-10
- Coverage: 10,000 square feet
- Capacity: 28.4 lbs
If you’re looking for a value for money lawn fertilizer, the Scotts Turf Builder 23410E is one of the best fertilizers for grass for your needs. With its broad coverage of 10,000 square feet and its affordable price, this is a superior product.
Also, the NPK ratio of 32-0-10 shows that this fertilizer has 30% nitrogen. Therefore, it is best used during fall or summer to provide nourishment to the dense foliage of your grass.
But what we really like about this product is that you can immediately start walking over your lawn after application. Great!
It is a granular slow-release, so it is long-lasting. You will only have to apply this lawn fertilizer once or twice for the entire season.
However, we don’t like the fact that this fertilizer does not contain any phosphorus. This is not intended for grassroots development, so you should only use it on full-grown grass.
Also, you should be careful during application because if you over-apply this fertilizer, it can burn your grass as it is quite strong.
Pros:
- Great price a coverage ratio
- You can use your lawn just after application
- High nitrogen concentration of 32%. Great for grass foliage development
- Long-lasting. Does not require frequent application
Cons:
- Can easily burn your grass if over applied
- It does not contain any phosphorus. Not for grass root development
How to Buy the Best Lawn Fertilizer
Photo: Miracle-Gro
1. Granular or Liquid Lawn Fertilizer
Granular lawn fertilizers are popular mostly because of its very affordable price.
In addition, granular fertilizers are not affected by weather conditions. This is because granular fertilizers are mostly slow release, which acts below the surface of the ground.
Liquid lawn fertilizers, on the other hand, act fast. One of the biggest advantages of liquid fertilizers is that it has an even spread and since it starts working fast, you will see the results sooner.
However, not only are liquid fertilizers expensive, but the equipment necessary for a spread liquid fertilizer also has a higher cost when compared to granular lawn fertilizers.
2. Organic or Synthetic Lawn Fertilizer
As its name suggests, organic lawn fertilizers are made from organic materials. It is usually the result of composting from dead plants.
One of the main advantages of organic fertilizer is that it remains present in the soil for a long time. Which means that it has a greater effect on the quality of the lawn in the long term.
However, unlike synthetic lawn fertilizer, it is slow acting. But, it does not “burn” the lawn even if you over apply it.
The synthetic lawn fertilizer is man-made and contains chemicals. Many people prefer synthetic lawn fertilizer because it is very fast-acting.
In fact, synthetic fertilizer is absorbed almost immediately by the lawn after application. Its biggest drawback is that synthetic fertilizer only helps boost the appearance of the lawn and does not enrich the soil in any way.
You should only use synthetic fertilizer as a quick solution and not a long-term one. You cannot use this type of fertilizer all year round, and you should be careful when applying this fertilizer on your lawn because it can easily burn or yellow grass.
3. All-Purpose or Specific Lawn Fertilizer
Most lawn fertilizers come in 2 main categories. All-purpose and specific.
The all-purpose lawn fertilizer can be used on any type of lawn regardless of the season or grass species. The main objective of the all-purpose fertilizer is to strengthen the growth of the lawn and enrich the soil.
The specific lawn fertilizer is usually used seasonally. Most top-rated lawn fertilizers should mark the seasons or time that you should use fertilizer on their instructions or packaging.
4. Growth stage of grass
Grass grows in different stages. There is a stage for it to develop strong roots and another to germinate and grow. This process usually starts in late winter and early spring, where the grass springs out of the soil.
Consequently, manufacturers make lawn fertilizers that cater to the different stages of grass.
Some lawn fertilizers should be used in the early stages during spring, and others during the summer to maintain the color of the lawn.
You should check if the manufacturer makes any mention of this grass stage. This is important because each stage of grass needs a specific NPK ratio.
5. NPK ratio
Lawn fertilizers have an NPK ratio that shows you the concentration of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). For example, an NPK ratio of 32-0-10 shows that the fertilizer has 32% nitrogen, 0% phosphorus, and 10% potassium.
This ratio is important because the lawn needs different concentrations of each element, depending on their growth stage.
A high concentration of nitrogen is great for foliage growth. This is what makes the lawn looks lush green. Phosphorus stimulates the roots and stays in the soil for long periods of time. Potassium provides resistance to various diseases.
6. Coverage
You will need to first measure your lawn in square feet and then purchase the appropriate amount of lawn fertilizer.
This is because each lawn fertilizer has a specific coverage as calculated by the manufacturer for the best efficiency.
When to Fertilize the Lawn?
Photo: Miracle-Gro
1. Early fall
During early fall, around September and November, the climate is generally cooler and humid. This is the season where grass develops the root network.
So, if you apply fertilizers with a high level of phosphorus during early fall, it will provide vital nutrients for the grass to create strong roots.
2. Spring
This is a great time when the grass shoots start coming out of the soil. You will not have a lush green grass lawn at this point yet because the grass is around 50% dormant.
The grass shoots have already absorbed the nutrients you applied in early fall and now need more nutrients to grow foliage.
3. Summer
Summer is a time when you need a lot of water for your lawn. However, the more water you apply, the more fertilizer you need as well.
You will need to apply a special slow-release fertilizer during summer. It will not only help keep the lawn lush green but also combat insects that may come and eat the grass.
Additionally, it is a good practice to use a general-purpose fertilizer every 6 weeks or so regardless of the season. This will prevent the nutrients in the soil from eroding.
In addition to the specialized fertilizers already applied, you should use all-purpose fertilizers that are rich in nitrogen every 90 to 100 days, at the start of every season.
Conclusion
As we have seen, you cannot get a lawn that is green and lush without using a lawn fertilizer.
Best of all, you do not need to regularly apply lawn fertilizer. Most fertilizers only require application once a month.
It is also very easy and safe to apply. All you need is regular gardening accessories to do it.