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10 Best Lawn Fertilizers For Spring 2025 in the United States

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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
9.8
Chosen by1,361
Weed and Feed
Application Method

Most important from
32869 reviews

Weed and Feed
The results have been impressive, effectively nourishing grass while tackling stubborn weeds.
Application Method
Easy to spread granules with clear, user-friendly instructions make application straightforward.

The Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed3 is designed to serve a dual purpose by both killing existing weeds and fertilizing your lawn. One of its significant strengths lies in its ability to control over 50 types of weeds including common ones like clover and dandelion. This makes it particularly useful for homeowners dealing with a variety of lawn weeds. The product is suitable for several grass types such as Bahiagrass, Bermudagrass, Bluegrass, Centipedegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass, offering versatility for different lawn scenarios.

Another advantage is its coverage area, as a 14.29 lb. bag can cover up to 5,000 sq. ft., making it efficient for medium to large lawns. The best application method is on a wet lawn with active weed growth and during specific temperature ranges for optimal results. However, it is not available in Florida, which could be a limitation for residents there. Additionally, as it requires specific conditions for application (wet lawn and temperature between 60°F and 90°F), timing is crucial, which might be less convenient for some users.

It uses active ingredients 2,4-D and Mecoprop, which are effective but may not appeal to those seeking organic alternatives. It comes in granular form, which can be easier to apply for many users. This product would best suit those looking for a combined solution for weed control and lawn feeding in the spring, particularly if they have a variety of weed issues and are looking for broad coverage.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,361
Weed and Feed
Application Method

Most important from
32869 reviews

Weed and Feed
The results have been impressive, effectively nourishing grass while tackling stubborn weeds.
Application Method
Easy to spread granules with clear, user-friendly instructions make application straightforward.
#2

Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food, Fertilizer for All Grass Types, 15,000 sq. ft., 37.5 lbs.

Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food is a versatile, all-purpose lawn fertilizer suitable for all grass types. One of its main strengths is its ability to feed and strengthen grass, which helps protect against future problems. This is achieved by building strong, deep roots and improving the lawn's ability to absorb water and nutrients, as compared to an unfed lawn.

The product covers a substantial area, up to 15,000 sq. ft., making it ideal for large lawns. Additionally, it can be applied to either wet or dry lawns, adding to its convenience. The granule form makes it easy to spread evenly across the lawn.

The product is manufactured in China and has been on the market since 2010, suggesting reliability and established usage. It does not require a soil test before application, which simplifies its use but may not suit those looking for more tailored lawn care solutions. Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food is a solid choice for general lawn maintenance, particularly for those with large lawns.

#3

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

Rating
9.3
Release Time

Most important from
8569 reviews

Release Time
Visible results in just 4 days, making the lawn the greenest on the block.

Scotts Green Max Lawn Food is a solid choice for spring lawn care, designed to enhance grass greening through its dual-action formula that combines a fertilizer with an iron supplement. It promises visible results in just three days, thanks to the 5% iron content that speeds up the greening process. This makes it suitable for any grass type, offering flexibility in application across different seasons—spring, summer, or fall.

It is reassuring to know that it won't stain concrete or driveways when used properly, and you can re-enter the lawn immediately after application, which adds convenience. Covering up to 5,000 sq. ft., the 16.67 lb. bag is compact yet efficient for medium-sized lawns. The granular form ensures easy application but may require even distribution to avoid patchy results.

If rapid greening without extra weed control is your priority, this product is a strong contender.

Rating
9.3
Release Time

Most important from
8569 reviews

Release Time
Visible results in just 4 days, making the lawn the greenest on the block.

Buying Guide for the Best Lawn Fertilizers 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. Fertilizers provide essential nutrients that help grass grow strong, green, and healthy. When selecting a fertilizer, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your lawn's needs. Here are the key specs to consider and how to navigate them to make the best choice for your lawn.
N-P-K RatioThe N-P-K ratio stands for Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K), which are the primary nutrients in fertilizers. Nitrogen promotes lush, green growth; phosphorus supports root development; and potassium enhances overall health and disease resistance. For spring, a higher nitrogen content is often preferred to boost growth. Ratios like 20-5-10 or 25-5-5 are common. Choose a ratio based on your lawn's specific needs: more nitrogen for growth, more phosphorus for root development, and more potassium for overall health.
Type of FertilizerFertilizers come in various types, including granular, liquid, and organic. Granular fertilizers are easy to apply and provide a slow release of nutrients over time. Liquid fertilizers offer quick absorption and immediate results but may require more frequent applications. Organic fertilizers are made from natural materials and improve soil health over time. Choose granular for ease and long-term feeding, liquid for quick results, and organic if you prefer natural options and long-term soil health.
Release TimeFertilizers can be either quick-release or slow-release. Quick-release fertilizers provide immediate nutrients to the lawn, which is great for a fast green-up but may require more frequent applications. Slow-release fertilizers gradually release nutrients over time, providing sustained feeding and reducing the risk of burning the grass. For spring, slow-release fertilizers are often recommended to ensure steady growth and reduce maintenance. Choose quick-release for immediate results and slow-release for long-term care.
Weed and FeedWeed and feed products combine fertilizer with weed control. These are convenient for tackling both feeding and weed prevention in one application. They are particularly useful if your lawn has a weed problem that needs addressing while also needing nutrients. Choose a weed and feed product if you want to save time and effort by combining these tasks, but ensure it targets the specific weeds present in your lawn.
Application MethodThe method of application can vary, including broadcast spreaders, drop spreaders, and hose-end sprayers. Broadcast spreaders cover large areas quickly and evenly, while drop spreaders provide precise application, which is useful for smaller lawns or areas needing specific attention. Hose-end sprayers are used for liquid fertilizers and are easy to use with a garden hose. Choose the application method that suits the size of your lawn and your comfort level with the equipment.
Soil Test ResultsConducting a soil test before choosing a fertilizer can provide valuable insights into the nutrient levels and pH of your soil. This helps in selecting a fertilizer that addresses any deficiencies and ensures balanced nutrition for your lawn. Soil tests can be done through local extension services or with home test kits. Choose a fertilizer that complements your soil test results to provide the specific nutrients your lawn needs.

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