Best Lawn Fertilizer Schedule for a Lush, Green Lawn

If you’re a homeowner with the goal of sustaining a lush, green lawn, it can require ample dedication, including regular fertilization. Planning your lawn’s fertilization in a strategic manner can enhance its vigor and robustness, helping it withstand pests and diseases. This piece is intended to provide you with the best lawn fertilizer schedules, bringing you one step nearer to achieving your ideal lawn.

When it comes to choosing the right fertilizer for your lawn, there are several factors to consider, such as the type of grass you have, the climate in your area, and the condition of your soil. The most critical thing to keep in mind is that different types of fertilizers have different nutrient ratios, which means that they are designed to address specific lawn needs. Some fertilizers are formulated for spring, while others are best applied in the fall. Therefore, it’s essential to choose the right fertilizer for the right time of year.

To ensure that your lawn gets the right nutrients at the right time, you need to follow a fertilizer schedule. The best fertilizer schedule will depend on your location, grass type, and soil condition. However, a general rule of thumb is to fertilize your lawn four times a year: in early spring, late spring, summer, and fall. By following this schedule, you can ensure that your lawn gets the nutrients it needs to thrive throughout the growing season.

We spent hours researching and testing different lawn fertilizers to identify the ones that work best for different grass types and soil conditions. In the next section, we will discuss the best lawn fertilizers for each season, along with some tips to help you apply them correctly.

Best Lawn Fertilizer Schedule

We know that maintaining a lush and healthy lawn requires a lot of effort and dedication. One of the most important aspects of lawn care is fertilization. However, it can be overwhelming to figure out the best lawn fertilizer schedule for your specific type of grass and climate. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best lawn fertilizers on the market. These products have been tested and proven to provide optimal nutrition for your lawn, resulting in a beautiful and thriving yard. Check out our top picks below.

1. Covington Naturals Lawn Food

If you want a lawn that’s the envy of the neighborhood, then Covington Naturals Lawn Food is the perfect product for you. With a 3-18-18 NPK balance, this liquid fertilizer is designed to give your turf and plants the nutrients they need to grow healthy and strong. It works on all types of grass, including Bermuda, Ryegrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, Fescue, Bahia, Centipede, and Zoysia.

We recently used Covington Naturals Lawn Food on our lawn, and the results were impressive. The liquid fertilizer was easy to apply, and we noticed a significant improvement in the color and thickness of our grass within a week. Our lawn looked greener and healthier than ever before.

One of the things we liked about Covington Naturals Lawn Food was its versatility. It works on all types of grass, so you don’t have to worry about whether it’s suitable for your lawn. It’s also derived from food-grade sources, which means it’s safe for pets and children to play on the lawn after application.

However, we did notice that the product can cause staining if not applied evenly. We also found that we needed to repeat the application every 2 to 4 weeks, or whenever our lawn looked thirsty, which meant more frequent applications than other fertilizers.

In conclusion, if you want a lawn that’s the envy of the neighborhood, then Covington Naturals Lawn Food is the right product for you. It provides the nutrients your lawn needs to grow healthy and strong, and it’s easy to apply. Just make sure to follow the instructions carefully, and you’ll have a beautiful lawn in no time.

2. Safer Brand Lawn Restore Natural Lawn Fertilizer

If you’re looking for a natural and non-burning lawn fertilizer that can help you achieve a lush green lawn, Safer Brand Lawn Restore Natural Lawn Fertilizer is a great option to consider.

In our experience, Safer Brand Lawn Restore Natural Lawn Fertilizer worked well to promote healthy growth and repair thinning lawns. We appreciated that it was made from naturally derived materials and that it didn’t burn our lawn or deprive the soil of nutrients. We also liked that it could withstand stressful conditions including heat, cold, and drought due to its ability to strengthen sod, new seeding, and root systems.

However, we did notice that it took multiple applications to see the best results, and some users may find the product to be pricey compared to other lawn fertilizers. Additionally, while most users saw a noticeable improvement in their lawn, some didn’t see a significant difference after using this product.

Overall, if you’re looking for a natural and non-toxic lawn fertilizer that can help you achieve a lush green lawn, Safer Brand Lawn Restore Natural Lawn Fertilizer is worth considering. Just be prepared to make multiple applications and keep in mind that it may be pricier than other options on the market.

3. Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard Lawn Food with Insect Control

If you’re looking for a lawn fertilizer that also keeps your lawn bug-free, Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard Lawn Food with Insect Control is a great option.

We recently used Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard Lawn Food with Insect Control on our lawn and were impressed with the results. The fertilizer helped to strengthen our lawn against heat and drought, and the insect control kept ants, crickets, and other pests at bay.

One thing to note is that the product needs to be applied to a dry lawn in the summertime when insect activity or damage is first observed. Additionally, you can’t use any other weed, disease, or insect control product for at least one week after application.

Overall, we would recommend Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard Lawn Food with Insect Control to anyone looking for a lawn fertilizer that also provides insect control. It’s easy to use, works on all grass types, and provides great results.

4. Pennington UltraGreen Starter Lawn Fertilizer

We highly recommend the Pennington UltraGreen Starter Lawn Fertilizer for anyone looking to establish a new lawn or overseed an existing one. This premium blended fertilizer is packed with essential plant nutrients to give you the thick, green lawn you desire.

We used this fertilizer on a new lawn and were impressed with how quickly the grass established and grew. The fast-acting nitrogen provided quick greening, while the slow-release nitrogen ensured extended feeding for up to 3 months. The added iron also gave our lawn a deep, dark green color.

One downside was the strong odor during application, but this dissipated quickly. We also found that multiple applications may be necessary for optimal results, especially on thicker or patchier areas of the lawn. Additionally, this fertilizer may not be suitable for use on all types of grass, so be sure to check the label before applying.

Overall, the Pennington UltraGreen Starter Lawn Fertilizer is a reliable choice for anyone looking to establish a new lawn or overseed an existing one.

5. Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food

If you want a better lawn next spring, then Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food is the right product for you. We highly recommend it because it helps build strong, deep roots and improves the lawn’s ability to absorb water and nutrients versus an unfed lawn.

We have used Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food for several years and it has consistently delivered great results. It is easy to apply and covers a large area, making it a cost-effective option for homeowners. The fertilizer also helps repair damage from summer’s heat, drought, and activity, ensuring a healthier lawn next spring.

One of the best things about this product is that it can be applied to any grass type. We have used it on both cool-season and warm-season grasses with excellent results. It is also easy to spread and does not leave clumps or streaks on the lawn.

However, we have noticed that it may not work as well in areas with extreme winter conditions. Additionally, it requires multiple applications to see significant results, which may be a drawback for those looking for a quick fix. Finally, those who prefer organic lawn care products may not find this product suitable for their needs.

Overall, we highly recommend Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food for homeowners looking to improve the health and appearance of their lawn. It is a reliable and effective product that delivers great results.

6. Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food

If you want a quick and easy way to get a green and healthy lawn, then Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food is the perfect choice for you.

We have been using Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food for a few months now, and we are impressed with the results. The lawn looks greener and healthier than ever before. The product is easy to use, and it starts feeding the grass instantly. We have used it on both warm and cool-season grass types, and it worked equally well on both.

One thing to keep in mind is that you need to apply the product every 4 to 6 weeks throughout the growing season to maintain a thick and healthy lawn. If you apply too much or too little, it can cause burn marks on the grass. So, make sure to follow the instructions carefully.

Another thing to note is that the product is not suitable for large lawns. It can take a lot of time and effort to apply it to a large area. However, if you have a small to medium-sized lawn, then it’s perfect for you.

In conclusion, if you want a quick and easy way to get a green and healthy lawn, then Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food is the perfect choice for you. It’s safe for all grass types, easy to use, and it feeds up to 7,200 sq. ft. Just make sure to follow the instructions carefully, and you’ll have a beautiful lawn in no time.

7. Simple Lawn Solutions

If you want a lawn that’s healthy and vibrant, Simple Lawn Solutions 3-18-18 is the right choice. It’s a high-quality, liquid fertilizer that’s easy to use and provides your lawn with the nutrients it needs to grow strong and healthy.

We recently used Simple Lawn Solutions on our lawn and were impressed with the results. The attached hose-end sprayer made application a breeze, and the liquid formula was easy to distribute evenly across the lawn.

One of the standout features of this fertilizer is the high-quality feed-grade ingredients. We noticed a significant improvement in the overall health and appearance of our lawn within just a few weeks of application.

Another benefit of Simple Lawn Solutions is that it’s a great starter fertilizer. The high phosphorus content promotes root development, which is essential for establishing a healthy lawn.

However, we did find that the coverage area may not be enough for larger lawns, and it may not be effective for severe nutrient deficiencies. Additionally, regular watering is essential to ensure proper absorption of the nutrients.

Overall, we highly recommend Simple Lawn Solutions 3-18-18 for anyone looking to improve the health and appearance of their lawn. It’s easy to use, contains high-quality ingredients, and is an excellent choice for establishing a healthy lawn.

8. Scotts Natural Lawn Food, 29.1 lbs. 1 Pack

We highly recommend purchasing Scotts Natural Lawn Food if you’re looking for a safe and effective way to build a thick, green lawn naturally.

We were impressed with how well Scotts Natural Lawn Food worked on our lawn. After applying it, our grass became noticeably thicker and greener within a few weeks. We also appreciated that we could walk on the lawn immediately after application, making the process much more convenient.

One thing to keep in mind is that this fertilizer takes time for soil microbes to decompose the ingredients and make it available. So while you won’t see immediate results, the long-term benefits are worth the wait.

Another minor downside is that the fertilizer doesn’t dissolve very quickly, so you may need to water your lawn more frequently after application to ensure that it’s evenly distributed.

Overall, we highly recommend Scotts Natural Lawn Food for anyone looking for a safe and effective way to build a thick, green lawn naturally.

9. Scotts Turf Builder Summer Lawn Fertilizer Plus Water Maximizer

We highly recommend purchasing the Scotts Turf Builder Summer Lawn Fertilizer Plus Water Maximizer for a lush and healthy lawn during the summertime.

We were impressed with the Scotts Turf Builder Summer Lawn Fertilizer Plus Water Maximizer’s ability to promote deep roots and green grass with up to 50% less water. The 2-in-1 fertilizer plus water maximizer powered by Everydrop Technology helped drive water into hard, dry soil, making it perfect for use during the summertime or in drought conditions. We also appreciated that it can be used on all grass types.

However, we did notice an unpleasant smell when storing the product and results may vary depending on temperature and turf type. It’s important to note that a Scotts spreader is required for optimal application.

Overall, if you’re looking for a lawn fertilizer that will help your grass thrive during the summer months, the Scotts Turf Builder Summer Lawn Fertilizer Plus Water Maximizer is a great choice.

10. Pennington UltraGreen Lawn Fertilizer

We highly recommend the Pennington UltraGreen Lawn Fertilizer for anyone looking to achieve a lush, green lawn.

We recently used the Pennington UltraGreen Lawn Fertilizer on our own lawn and were impressed with the results. Within a few weeks, our lawn was noticeably greener and thicker. We appreciated that the fertilizer provided both fast-acting and slow-release nitrogen, ensuring our lawn would stay healthy and green for an extended period of time. Additionally, the added iron gave our lawn a beautiful, deep green color.

One thing to note is that the fertilizer may take a few weeks to show noticeable results, so be patient. We also recommend being careful when spreading the fertilizer, as some customers have reported uneven spreading.

Overall, we believe the Pennington UltraGreen Lawn Fertilizer is an excellent choice for anyone looking to achieve a healthy, green lawn.

11. Simple Lawn Solutions – High Potassium Lawn Food Liquid Fertilizer 0-0-25 – Concentrated Spray – Turf Grass Vigor and Plant Hardiness – Summer and Fall – Any Grass Type (32 Ounce)

If you’re looking for a high-quality lawn fertilizer that can help you achieve the lawn of your dreams, Simple Lawn Solutions High Potassium Lawn Food Liquid Fertilizer 0-0-25 is an excellent choice.

We recently tried this product on our lawn, and we were impressed with the results. The ready-to-use hose end sprayer made it easy to apply, and we noticed a significant improvement in the health and appearance of our grass within a few weeks. The high potassium content helped our lawn prepare for the changing temperatures and stressful conditions of the summer and fall seasons. We also appreciate that it can be used on any grass type, making it a versatile choice for homeowners.

One potential downside of this product is that the application of potassium will generally not show a visible response, so it may be difficult to tell if the product is working. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the sprayer not working properly, which can be frustrating. Finally, the product can be a bit pricey compared to other lawn fertilizers, so it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget.

Overall, we would recommend Simple Lawn Solutions High Potassium Lawn Food Liquid Fertilizer 0-0-25 to anyone looking for a high-quality lawn fertilizer that can help improve the health and appearance of their grass. While it may be a bit pricey, we believe that the results are worth the investment.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best lawn fertilizer, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features to look for:

Nutrient Content

The nutrient content of the fertilizer is one of the most important factors to consider. Look for a fertilizer that contains the right balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) for your lawn’s needs. The NPK ratio should be clearly stated on the packaging.

Slow-Release Formula

A slow-release fertilizer is a great option for those who want to fertilize their lawn less frequently. This type of fertilizer releases nutrients slowly over time, providing a steady supply of nutrients to the grass.

Weed and Pest Control

Some fertilizers contain weed and pest control ingredients. If you’re dealing with a weed or pest problem in your lawn, a fertilizer with these ingredients may be a good option.

Organic or Synthetic

Organic fertilizers are made from natural materials, while synthetic fertilizers are made from chemicals. Organic fertilizers are generally considered to be safer for the environment, but they may not be as effective as synthetic fertilizers.

Application Method

Consider the application method of the fertilizer. Some fertilizers require a spreader, while others can be applied by hand. Choose a fertilizer that is easy to apply and fits your needs.

Price

Price is always a factor to consider when choosing a fertilizer. However, don’t skimp on quality just to save a few dollars. Investing in a high-quality fertilizer will pay off in the long run with a healthier, more beautiful lawn.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended frequency for fertilizing a lawn?

We recommend fertilizing your lawn at least once every season. This means four times a year. However, the frequency of fertilization may vary depending on factors such as the type of grass, soil type, and climate.

What are the best times of year to fertilize a lawn?

The best times to fertilize your lawn are in the spring, summer, and fall. Spring fertilization promotes growth and helps the lawn recover from winter. Summer fertilization helps the lawn withstand heat and drought. Fall fertilization promotes root growth and prepares the lawn for winter.

How do I determine the appropriate fertilizer schedule for my lawn?

The appropriate fertilizer schedule for your lawn depends on various factors, including grass type, soil type, climate, and the time of year. It is best to consult with a lawn care professional or have your soil tested to determine the appropriate fertilizer schedule for your lawn.

Is it possible to over-fertilize a lawn?

Yes, over-fertilization can harm your lawn. Too much fertilizer can cause the grass to grow too quickly, making it more susceptible to disease and pests. It can also cause the grass to become weak and thin, making it more susceptible to drought and heat stress.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when fertilizing a lawn?

One common mistake is using too much fertilizer. It is important to follow the instructions on the label and apply the appropriate amount of fertilizer. Another mistake is applying fertilizer at the wrong time. Applying fertilizer too early or too late can be detrimental to your lawn.

Can the timing of lawn fertilization affect its effectiveness?

Yes, the timing of lawn fertilization can affect its effectiveness. Applying fertilizer at the right time can help the grass absorb the nutrients it needs to grow strong and healthy. Applying fertilizer at the wrong time can cause the grass to grow too quickly or not absorb the nutrients it needs.