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10 Best Grass Fertilizers 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 Starter Fertilizer for New Grass, Use When Planting Seed, 14,000 sq. ft., 42 lbs.

Scotts Turf Builder Starter Fertilizer is designed specifically for new grass, such as when you're planting seed, laying sod, or reseeding your lawn. Its main strength is the All-in-One Particles technology, which means the nutrients are blended evenly, providing the right balance to help grass grow thicker and quicker compared to unfed lawns. This fertilizer comes in granule form, making it easy to spread. It's safe for all grass types and can be applied anytime you plant new grass, giving flexibility for different planting situations.

One 42-pound bag covers up to 14,000 sq. ft., making it suitable for medium to large lawns. The product is a straightforward choice for those starting a new lawn who want a fertilizer that supports early grass growth with ease of use.

#2

Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Fertilizer for All Grass Types, 4,000 sq. ft., 10 lbs.

Rating
9.8
Seasonal Fertilizer

Most important from
13035 reviews

Seasonal Fertilizer
Applying this fertilizer in the fall helps prepare your lawn for winter and promotes a green, healthy lawn even during colder months.

The Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Fertilizer is designed specifically for use in the fall to prepare your lawn for winter and promote stronger, deeper roots for spring growth. Its balanced NPK ratio, suggested by the 1:1:1 mixing ratio, supports recovery from summer stress like heat and drought. Being a granular fertilizer, itโ€™s easy to apply on both wet or dry lawns and covers up to 4,000 square feet per 10-pound bag, making it suitable for medium-sized yards.

Itโ€™s also formulated for all grass types, adding versatility. This fertilizer provides a straightforward, fall-specific lawn treatment to boost root strength going into winter, making it an effective choice for general lawn care during this season.

Rating
9.8
Seasonal Fertilizer

Most important from
13035 reviews

Seasonal Fertilizer
Applying this fertilizer in the fall helps prepare your lawn for winter and promotes a green, healthy lawn even during colder months.
#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
9.5
Release Rate

Most important from
9124 reviews

Release Rate
Immediate greening effect is impressive.

Scotts Green Max Lawn Food is a dual-action fertilizer designed to provide rapid greening within just three days. One of its standout features is the inclusion of 5% iron, which significantly enhances the greening process, making your lawn look lush and healthy quickly.

This product is versatile, suitable for application in spring, summer, or fall, and it can be used on any type of grass, making it a flexible option for many lawns. Additionally, the product is designed not to stain concrete or other surfaces, which is a practical benefit for maintaining a clean outdoor space. A single 16.67-pound bag can cover up to 5,000 square feet, making it a substantial option for medium to large lawns.

The granulated form ensures easy application and even distribution across your lawn. One notable strength is the immediate re-entry after application; you don't need to wait, making it quite convenient. This product seems best suited for those looking for quick results and ease of use, especially if iron supplementation is needed for greener grass.

Rating
9.5
Release Rate

Most important from
9124 reviews

Release Rate
Immediate greening effect is impressive.

Buying Guide for the Best Grass Fertilizers

Choosing the right grass fertilizer is essential for maintaining a healthy and lush lawn. Fertilizers provide the necessary nutrients that grass needs to grow strong and green. When selecting a fertilizer, it's important to understand the different types and their specific benefits. This will help you make an informed decision based on your lawn's needs and conditions.
NPK RatioThe NPK ratio represents the percentage of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) in the fertilizer. Nitrogen promotes leaf growth and vibrant green color, phosphorus supports root development, and potassium enhances overall health and disease resistance. For a lush lawn, a higher nitrogen content is often preferred. However, the right balance depends on your lawn's specific needs. For example, a new lawn may benefit from higher phosphorus to establish strong roots, while an established lawn may need more nitrogen for green growth.
Type of FertilizerFertilizers come in various forms, including granular, liquid, and organic. Granular fertilizers are easy to apply and provide a slow release of nutrients over time, making them ideal for long-term feeding. Liquid fertilizers offer quick nutrient absorption and are great for immediate results. Organic fertilizers are made from natural sources and improve soil health while providing nutrients. Choose the type based on your preference for application and the immediate needs of your lawn.
Release RateThe release rate of a fertilizer indicates how quickly the nutrients are made available to the grass. Slow-release fertilizers provide a steady supply of nutrients over an extended period, reducing the risk of over-fertilization and minimizing the need for frequent applications. Fast-release fertilizers deliver nutrients quickly, which can be beneficial for a quick green-up but may require more frequent applications. Consider your lawn care routine and how often you want to fertilize when choosing the release rate.
Seasonal FertilizerDifferent fertilizers are formulated for specific seasons. Spring fertilizers typically have higher nitrogen content to promote rapid growth and green-up after winter. Summer fertilizers focus on maintaining health and resilience during hot weather, often with balanced NPK ratios. Fall fertilizers are designed to strengthen roots and prepare the lawn for winter, usually with higher potassium content. Select a fertilizer based on the current season and the specific needs of your lawn during that time.
Soil pH CompatibilitySoil pH affects nutrient availability and grass health. Most grasses prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Some fertilizers are formulated to adjust soil pH, either raising or lowering it to optimal levels. Testing your soil pH before choosing a fertilizer can help ensure that you select one that complements your soil conditions, promoting better nutrient uptake and overall lawn health.

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