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10 Best Fertilizer Lawns 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

Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food, Plant Fertilizer for Indoor or Outdoor Plants, Roses, Flowers, Houseplants, Vegetables and Trees, 10 lb.

Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food is a versatile and easy-to-use fertilizer suitable for a wide range of plants, including indoor and outdoor plants, roses, flowers, houseplants, vegetables, and trees. It boasts a quick-release formula that starts working instantly, promoting rapid growth and more beautiful plants compared to unfed ones.

The product's application is straightforward, either using a Miracle-Gro Garden Feeder or a simple watering can, which adds to its user-friendly nature. For different settings, the mixing ratio varies, ensuring precise feeding: 1/2 teaspoon per gallon for indoor plants and 1-1/2 tablespoons per 1-1/2 gallons for outdoor plants.

One 10-pound container covers a substantial area, approximately 4,000 square feet, making it a cost-effective option for large gardens. Though it is primarily marketed for plant food rather than lawn fertilizer, its effectiveness and popularity suggest it is well-suited for general gardening purposes.

#2

Scotts Turf Builder Starter Fertilizer for New Grass, Use When Planting Seed, 5,000 sq. ft., 15 lbs.

Rating
9.6
N-P-K Ratio
Type of Fertilizer
Release Rate

Most important from
11219 reviews

N-P-K Ratio
Provides essential nutrients that make grass grow faster, thicker, and greener.
Type of Fertilizer
Amazing product that transformed bare, shady spots into thriving grass patches.
Release Rate
Fantastic results in just 8 days, even under challenging high temperatures.
Application Method
Offers excellent value for money, covering a generous 5,000 square feet.

The Scotts Turf Builder Starter Fertilizer for New Grass is a potent option for those looking to establish a new lawn or improve existing grass. With an N-P-K ratio of 24-25-4, it provides a balanced mix of nutrients designed to promote thicker and quicker grass growth. This high concentration is ideal for new grass, sod, or grass plugs, making it versatile across various planting needs. The fertilizer is safe for any grass type, so you don’t have to worry about compatibility issues. Covering up to 5,000 square feet, it's suitable for medium to large lawns.

The powder form is straightforward to apply, though it might require some effort to ensure even distribution. One of the standout benefits is its ability to grow new grass 70% thicker and 35% quicker compared to unfed grass, which can be particularly useful for those in a hurry to see results. However, the product's high nutrient concentration means that proper application is crucial to avoid potential over-fertilization. It may also require more frequent monitoring of soil conditions to ensure optimal results.

If you are planning to seed, sod, or reseed your lawn, this fertilizer offers excellent support, though it’s advisable to perform soil testing beforehand to tailor the application to your lawn’s specific needs.

Rating
9.6
N-P-K Ratio
Type of Fertilizer
Release Rate

Most important from
11219 reviews

N-P-K Ratio
Provides essential nutrients that make grass grow faster, thicker, and greener.
Type of Fertilizer
Amazing product that transformed bare, shady spots into thriving grass patches.
Release Rate
Fantastic results in just 8 days, even under challenging high temperatures.
Application Method
Offers excellent value for money, covering a generous 5,000 square feet.
#3

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

Rating
9.3
Release Rate
Application Method
Seasonal Considerations

Most important from
34404 reviews

Release Rate
Long-lasting results reduce the need for frequent reapplication.
Application Method
Easy application with clear and user-friendly instructions.
Seasonal Considerations
Following the instructions carefully and applying at the recommended time of year is essential for optimal results.

Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed3 is a dual-action lawn product that combines weed control with fertilization. It is designed to eliminate over 50 types of common lawn weeds, such as clover and dandelions, while also feeding your lawn to promote thick, healthy grass growth.

This product is suitable for various grass types including Bahiagrass, Bermudagrass, Bluegrass, Centipedegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass, making it versatile for different lawns. The granular form ensures easy application, and one bag covers up to 5,000 square feet of lawn area.

It is essential to apply this product when weeds are actively growing and temperatures are between 60°F and 90°F to ensure effectiveness. However, it's not available in Florida, so users in that state will need to find an alternative. Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed3 is a strong candidate for those looking to both nourish their lawn and control weed growth with a single application.

Rating
9.3
Release Rate
Application Method
Seasonal Considerations

Most important from
34404 reviews

Release Rate
Long-lasting results reduce the need for frequent reapplication.
Application Method
Easy application with clear and user-friendly instructions.
Seasonal Considerations
Following the instructions carefully and applying at the recommended time of year is essential for optimal results.

Buying Guide for the Best Fertilizer Lawns

Choosing the right fertilizer for your lawn is crucial for maintaining a healthy, green, and lush yard. Fertilizers provide essential nutrients that grass needs to grow strong and resist diseases, pests, and environmental stresses. When selecting a fertilizer, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they relate to your lawn's needs. This guide will help you navigate through the important factors to consider, ensuring you pick the best fertilizer 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 flowering; and potassium enhances overall plant health and disease resistance. For lawns, a higher nitrogen content is usually preferred. Ratios like 20-5-10 or 30-0-4 are common for lawn fertilizers. Choose a ratio based on your lawn's specific needs: high nitrogen for green growth, balanced for general maintenance, or higher phosphorus for new lawns or seeding.
Type of FertilizerFertilizers come in various forms, including granular, liquid, and organic. Granular fertilizers are easy to apply and provide a slow, steady release of nutrients. Liquid fertilizers offer quick absorption and are ideal for immediate nutrient needs. Organic fertilizers, made from natural materials, improve soil health over time but may release nutrients more slowly. Choose granular for ease and long-term feeding, liquid for quick results, and organic for environmentally friendly and soil-improving options.
Release RateThe release rate indicates how quickly the nutrients in the fertilizer become available to the grass. Slow-release fertilizers provide nutrients over an extended period, reducing the risk of burning the lawn and requiring fewer applications. Fast-release fertilizers offer immediate nutrient availability but need more frequent applications and can potentially burn the grass if over-applied. For most lawns, slow-release fertilizers are ideal for consistent growth and less maintenance. Use fast-release for quick green-up or to address specific nutrient deficiencies.
Application MethodThe method of applying fertilizer can affect its effectiveness and ease of use. Common methods include broadcast spreaders, drop spreaders, and hose-end sprayers. Broadcast spreaders cover large areas quickly and evenly, making them suitable for big lawns. Drop spreaders provide precise application, reducing the risk of uneven coverage, ideal for smaller or more intricate lawns. Hose-end sprayers are used with liquid fertilizers and are convenient for quick application. Choose the method that best fits your lawn size and your comfort with the equipment.
Seasonal ConsiderationsDifferent fertilizers are formulated for different seasons to meet the changing needs of your lawn. Spring fertilizers typically have higher nitrogen to promote growth after winter dormancy. Summer fertilizers focus on maintaining health and stress resistance, often with balanced nutrients. Fall fertilizers support root development and prepare the lawn for winter, usually with higher potassium. Select a fertilizer that matches the current season to ensure your lawn gets the appropriate nutrients at the right time.
Soil TestingSoil testing provides valuable information about the nutrient levels and pH of your soil, helping you choose the right fertilizer. A soil test can reveal deficiencies in specific nutrients, allowing you to select a fertilizer that addresses those needs. It can also indicate if your soil pH needs adjustment for optimal nutrient uptake. Conduct a soil test before choosing a fertilizer to ensure you are providing the exact nutrients your lawn requires for healthy growth.

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