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10 Best Lawn Fertilizer For Spring 2025 in the United States

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#1

Winner

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

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,173
Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release

Most important from
9264 reviews

Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release
My yard has the greenest grass on the block just four days after applying Scotts Green Max Lawn Food.

Scotts Green Max Lawn Food is a dual-action fertilizer that includes an iron supplement, designed to improve lawn greenness within three days. The product is designed for use in multiple seasons, including spring, summer, and fall, and is suitable for all grass types. This makes it versatile for different lawn care needs throughout the year. The inclusion of 5% iron is a significant feature, enhancing the greening process.

One notable advantage is that it does not stain surfaces like concrete or driveways, provided it is used as directed, which helps in maintaining the cleanliness of the surrounding area. Additionally, it covers up to 5,000 square feet, making it suitable for medium to large lawns. Users can re-enter the lawn immediately after application, making it highly convenient for busy homeowners. However, there are a few aspects to consider. The product uses synthetic ingredients, which might not appeal to those seeking organic options.

Furthermore, it does not provide weed control, focusing solely on fertilization and greening, which might require additional products for comprehensive lawn care. The granule form of the product ensures even distribution, but it requires a spreader for application, which could be an extra cost for some users.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,173
Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release

Most important from
9264 reviews

Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release
My yard has the greenest grass on the block just four days after applying Scotts Green Max Lawn Food.
#2

Scotts Turf Builder 4-Bag Bundle for Small Lawns with Halts Crabgrass Preventer, Weed & Feed5, SummerGuard and WinterGuard

The Scotts Turf Builder 4 Bag Bundle is designed for small lawns and includes a variety of season-specific fertilizers and treatments. This bundle is particularly comprehensive, providing a year-round solution for lawn care. The N-P-K ratio and specific nutrient breakdown for each product are not detailed, but the focus on crabgrass prevention, weed control, insect protection, and seasonal feeding suggests a well-rounded nutrient approach.

The inclusion of both slow-release and quick-release elements helps ensure immediate results and sustained lawn health over time. However, for those seeking an organic option, it's important to note that these products are synthetic. The Weed & Feed5, equipped with WeedGrip technology, is particularly effective against common weeds like dandelions and clover, which is a significant advantage for maintaining a clean lawn.

The granular form makes for straightforward application, although users must follow the specific instructions on each bag for best results. One potential drawback is the separate shipping of products, which might result in staggered arrivals. This product is best suited for homeowners with medium coverage lawns seeking a convenient, all-in-one solution for year-round lawn care.

#3

Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & Feed2, Weed Killer Plus Lawn Fertilizer, 4,000 sq. ft., 13.79 lbs.

Rating
9.1
Weed and Feed
Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release

Most important from
6054 reviews

Weed and Feed
Great fertilizer for St. Augustine Grass! My lawn is lush, green, and weed-free thanks to this product.
Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release
This fertilizer worked great for me. It made my grass really green, although it took a while to penetrate the soil. Once it did, it performed excellently!

The Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & Feed2 is specifically designed for Southern lawns and covers an area of 4,000 sq. ft. This product is a combination of weed killer and lawn fertilizer, targeting a variety of common Southern weeds like dollarweed, clover, and dandelion while feeding the grass to promote thicker, healthier growth. The fertilizer also helps grass develop strong, deep roots to better withstand Southern climate stressors.

It is suitable for use on St. Augustinegrass, Centipedegrass, Zoysiagrass, and Carpetgrass, making it versatile for different types of Southern lawns. The granular form ensures ease of application, but it requires watering in immediately after application for the best results. This product is not organic, which might be a consideration for those looking for natural options.

It is essential to apply it to a dry lawn and ensure proper watering, as not doing so may limit its effectiveness. This product is best suited for homeowners with specific types of Southern lawns who need both weed control and fertilization.

Rating
9.1
Weed and Feed
Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release

Most important from
6054 reviews

Weed and Feed
Great fertilizer for St. Augustine Grass! My lawn is lush, green, and weed-free thanks to this product.
Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release
This fertilizer worked great for me. It made my grass really green, although it took a while to penetrate the soil. Once it did, it performed excellently!

Buying Guide for the Best Lawn Fertilizer For Spring

Choosing the right lawn fertilizer for spring is crucial to ensure your lawn gets the nutrients it needs to thrive after the winter months. The right fertilizer will help your grass grow strong, green, and healthy. When selecting a fertilizer, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they relate to your lawn's needs. Here are the main factors to consider when choosing a lawn fertilizer for spring.
N-P-K RatioThe N-P-K ratio represents the percentage of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) in the fertilizer. Nitrogen promotes leaf growth and greening, phosphorus supports root development, and potassium enhances overall plant health and disease resistance. For spring, a higher nitrogen content is often beneficial to encourage lush, green growth. Look for ratios like 20-5-10 or 30-0-4. If your lawn is newly seeded, a balanced ratio like 10-10-10 might be more appropriate to support both root and leaf development.
Slow-Release vs. Quick-ReleaseSlow-release fertilizers release nutrients gradually over time, providing a steady supply of nutrients and reducing the risk of burning your lawn. Quick-release fertilizers provide an immediate nutrient boost but can also lead to rapid growth and potential burning if over-applied. For spring, slow-release fertilizers are generally preferred as they provide consistent feeding and reduce the need for frequent applications. However, if your lawn needs an immediate green-up, a quick-release fertilizer can be used with caution.
Organic vs. SyntheticOrganic fertilizers are made from natural materials and release nutrients slowly as they break down. They improve soil health and are environmentally friendly. Synthetic fertilizers are chemically manufactured and provide nutrients more quickly. They are often more concentrated and can be tailored to specific nutrient needs. If you prefer a more natural approach and want to improve soil health over time, organic fertilizers are a good choice. If you need precise nutrient control and faster results, synthetic fertilizers might be more suitable.
Weed and FeedWeed and feed fertilizers combine nutrients with herbicides to feed your lawn while controlling weeds. This can be convenient if you have a weed problem, as it saves time and effort. However, these products can be harsh on certain grass types and may not be suitable for newly seeded lawns. If your lawn is established and you have a weed issue, a weed and feed product can be effective. If you have a new lawn or prefer to avoid herbicides, choose a regular fertilizer and address weeds separately.
Application MethodFertilizers come in various forms, including granular, liquid, and spike. Granular fertilizers are easy to apply with a spreader and provide even coverage. Liquid fertilizers are fast-acting and can be applied with a hose-end sprayer, but they may require more frequent applications. Spikes are convenient for small areas but may not provide even coverage. For most lawns, granular fertilizers are a practical choice for even distribution and ease of use. If you prefer a quick boost or have a small lawn, liquid fertilizers can be a good option.

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