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10 Best Cheap Lawn Fertilizer 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed3, Weed Killer Plus Lawn Fertilizer, Controls Dandelion and Clover, 5,000 sq. ft., 14.29 lbs.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,398
Application Frequency
Coverage Area

Most important from
33800 reviews

Application Frequency
Long-lasting results reduce the need for frequent reapplication, maintaining the lawn’s improved condition for an extended period.
Coverage Area
The 5,000 sq. ft. coverage makes it suitable for larger lawns and cost-effective.

The Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed3 is a combination of weed killer and lawn fertilizer designed to control a range of common lawn weeds like dandelions and clover while nourishing the grass. This product is suitable for various grass types including Bahiagrass, Bermudagrass, Bluegrass, Centipedegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass. One of its key strengths is its coverage; a 14.29 lb. bag can cover up to 5,000 sq. ft., making it a cost-effective option for medium to large lawns.

This product works by killing over 50 different types of weeds and feeding the lawn to make it thicker and healthier, thus preventing future weeds from taking root. The product is synthetic, so it acts quickly but might not be the best choice for those seeking an organic option. Users should apply it to a wet lawn when the weeds are actively growing and the daytime temperatures are between 60°F and 90°F for optimal results.

However, it is not available in Florida, which limits its accessibility for some users. Additionally, the need for precise weather conditions for application could be seen as a drawback. Despite this, its dual action as both a weed controller and a fertilizer, combined with its extensive coverage and ease of application in granule form, make it a strong contender for those seeking an affordable solution for lawn care.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,398
Application Frequency
Coverage Area

Most important from
33800 reviews

Application Frequency
Long-lasting results reduce the need for frequent reapplication, maintaining the lawn’s improved condition for an extended period.
Coverage Area
The 5,000 sq. ft. coverage makes it suitable for larger lawns and cost-effective.
#2

Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard Lawn Food with Insect Control, 13.35 lbs., 5,000 sq. ft.

Rating
9.8
Coverage Area

Most important from
7815 reviews

Coverage Area
Offers great value with a budget-friendly price and covers a decent area suitable for small to medium yards.

Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard Lawn Food with Insect Control is a good choice if you're looking for an affordable fertilizer that also helps protect your lawn from a variety of common bugs like ants, armyworms, and chinch bugs. It covers a decent area of 5,000 square feet with one 13.35-pound bag, making it suitable for small to medium-sized yards. This product is synthetic and comes in granule form, which is easy to spread. It is designed to feed and strengthen your lawn, particularly helping it handle summer heat and drought conditions. The added insect control is a useful bonus, especially if you’ve had problems with pests damaging your grass.

You should apply it to a dry lawn during summer once you notice insect activity, which means the timing is important to get the best results. If you prefer organic fertilizers or want to know the precise nutrient breakdown, this product might not fully meet those needs. It’s also a bit specialized for summer use rather than year-round fertilizing.

This product represents a practical option for homeowners looking for a budget-friendly, dual-purpose fertilizer and insect control treatment, especially during the hotter months.

Rating
9.8
Coverage Area

Most important from
7815 reviews

Coverage Area
Offers great value with a budget-friendly price and covers a decent area suitable for small to medium yards.
#3

Scotts Green Max Lawn Food, Lawn Fertilizer Plus Iron Supplement for Greener Grass in 3 Days, 5,000 sq. ft., 16.67 lbs.

Scotts Green Max Lawn Food is a synthetic granular fertilizer designed to quickly improve lawn color, thanks to its added 5% iron which helps grass green up within about three days. It covers a decent lawn size of 5,000 square feet per 16.67-pound bag, making it suitable for medium-sized yards. The product can be used during spring, summer, or fall and is safe to walk on right after application, which is convenient for busy homeowners.

One notable benefit is that it’s formulated not to stain driveways or concrete when used as directed. Being a synthetic fertilizer, it might not appeal to those preferring organic lawn care options. Typically, synthetic fertilizers like this are applied every 6-8 weeks during growing seasons.

If you want fast results and ease of use without organic certification, Scotts Green Max is a solid pick, though those seeking natural products should look elsewhere.

Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Lawn Fertilizer

Choosing the right lawn fertilizer can make a significant difference in the health and appearance of your lawn. Fertilizers provide essential nutrients that grass needs to grow strong and green. When selecting a fertilizer, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you pick the best one for your lawn's specific needs. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and achieve the best results for your lawn.
N-P-K RatioThe N-P-K ratio represents the percentage of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) in the fertilizer. Nitrogen promotes lush, green growth, phosphorus supports root development, and potassium enhances overall plant health. For a general-purpose lawn fertilizer, a balanced ratio like 10-10-10 is often recommended. However, if your lawn needs more green growth, a higher nitrogen content like 20-5-10 might be better. Assess your lawn's current condition to determine which ratio will best meet its needs.
Type of FertilizerFertilizers come in two main types: granular and liquid. Granular fertilizers are easy to apply and provide a slow, steady release of nutrients, making them ideal for long-term feeding. Liquid fertilizers offer quick nutrient absorption and are great for giving your lawn an immediate boost. If you prefer a low-maintenance approach, granular might be the way to go. For quick results or if you need to address a specific deficiency, liquid fertilizers can be more effective.
Organic vs. SyntheticOrganic fertilizers are made from natural materials and are environmentally friendly, improving soil health over time. Synthetic fertilizers are chemically manufactured and provide nutrients more quickly. If you are looking for a sustainable option that enhances soil quality, organic fertilizers are a good choice. If you need fast results and precise nutrient control, synthetic fertilizers might be more suitable. Consider your environmental preferences and the specific needs of your lawn when making this decision.
Application FrequencyDifferent fertilizers have varying application frequencies, ranging from once a month to once a season. Slow-release fertilizers typically require fewer applications, making them convenient for busy homeowners. Fast-release fertilizers may need more frequent applications but can provide quicker results. Think about how much time you can dedicate to lawn care and choose a fertilizer that fits your schedule and maintenance preferences.
Coverage AreaThe coverage area indicates how much lawn a specific amount of fertilizer can treat. This is usually measured in square feet. To avoid over- or under-fertilizing, calculate the size of your lawn and choose a product that matches your coverage needs. If you have a large lawn, look for fertilizers that offer extensive coverage to ensure even application and optimal results.

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