Lawn fertilizers are usually categorized based on nutrient compositions, physical state, release speed, and application method. A lawn fertilizer service can help you find the right choice for your turf. Here are four types of lawn fertilizer:
1. Synthetic Fertilizer
Synthetic or chemical-based fertilizers feature nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in unique proportions. These nutrients are key for healthy grass growth. You can find fertilizers with all three nutrients or nutrient-specific fertilizers like urea or ammonium sulfate. Nitrogen-based fertilizers often result in greener lawns with healthy leaf growth and enhanced root development. Phosphate-based fertilizers help promote root growth, lawn establishment, and disease resistance. Potassium-based fertilizers may improve resilience against drought, heat, and extreme weather conditions, making them suitable for repairing damaged or stressed lawns. Some fertilizers also feature iron, zinc, copper, and other micronutrients your lawn needs to maintain its health and appearance.
Synthetic fertilizers can be slow-release or quick-release. Slow-release fertilizers gradually release the nutrients over several weeks or months, reducing the risk of over-fertilization. Quick-release fertilizers provide the nutrients immediately but may require frequent applications.
2. Organic Fertilizer
A lawn fertilizer service may offer organic fertilizer if you want to reduce or avoid chemicals. Organic fertilizer is derived from natural animal and plant-based sources like compost, manure, and bone meal. The fertilizer releases nutrients slowly and naturally over several months, resulting in long-term soil health. Organic fertilizer also helps build soil composition and encourages the development of beneficial microbes that feed on the compost.
Although visible results may not occur quickly, organic fertilizer can lead to sustainable nutrients and healthier grass in the long term. Organic fertilizer composition varies widely, so they do not usually feature nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium ratios. Sources include alfalfa, egg shells, corn gluten meal, kelp, and rock phosphate. The fertilizers usually improve nutrient availability and water retention capacity, especially when the microorganism population increases.
3. Granular and Liquid Fertilizer
Granular fertilizers are dry, solid pellets or granules spread using broadcast or drop spreaders. They are applied to the soil’s surface before watering them into the lawn. Granular fertilizers break down slowly, releasing nutrients gradually and consistently for long-term health. Nutrients are released when the fertilizer is exposed to moisture, so unused fertilizer should be kept dry. Granular fertilizers usually have a long shelf life and are suitable for building soil fertility over time.
Liquid fertilizers are applied with a hose-end sprayer, offering quicker absorption and release. They often come in concentrated liquid form and require mixing with water before use. You can also find water-soluble fertilizer, which is solid and dissolved in water before it is applied. Liquid fertilizer provides nutrients quickly, making it suitable for spot treatment and lawns requiring quick results. The fertilizer also calls for timed application because it can evaporate under heat or get washed away by rainfall.
4. Special Fertilizers
Some fertilizers feature herbicides to help kill post-emergent weeds while feeding your grass. Eliminating weeds reduces competition for nutrients, allowing your lawn to establish and thrive. Weed and feed fertilizers can be applied in spring, fall, or whenever new weeds appear in your lawn. They reduce the need for separate fertilization and weed control because they feed and treat your lawn simultaneously. You can choose products with bioherbicides and organic fertilizers to reduce chemical use in your lawn. Other special fertilizers include starters and winterizers. Starter fertilizer usually contains more phosphorus to improve root development in new lawns. Winterizer or fall fertilizer often features more potassium to strengthen and prepare the grass for winter dormancy.
Find a Lawn Fertilizer Service
Fertilizers are usually applied based on your lawn’s unique needs. A lawn fertilizer service provides soil testing to help determine which fertilizer type and frequency is right for your lawn. Speak to an experienced lawn and tree service company today to learn more about lawn fertilization.
