Liquid Fertilizer That Will Liven Up Your Lawn
What’s the difference between liquid and granular lawn fertilizers?
Let’s introduce you to the world of liquid and granular fertilizers for your lawn. We will guide you in understanding these nutrient-rich, essential solutions that can transform your grass into a verdant and vibrant landscape.
Fertilizers mainly comprise three essential nutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), as well as added minerals. Liquid fertilizers release nutrients quickly and are considered a ‘tonic.’ In contrast, granular fertilizers are generally slow-release, thereby releasing nutrients over a longer period of time and are thought of as the ‘main meal.’
In this blog, we will compare the benefits of liquid and granular lawn fertilizers and share expert tips. Whether establishing a new lawn or maintaining an existing one, learn how to choose and apply the right fertilizer to achieve and maintain a perfect green oasis.
Understanding Liquid Fertilizers
Liquid fertilizers are fertilizers applied in a liquid form. Whether you use liquid fertilizer for lawns or other plants, they have the same benefits.
Made up of a mix of essential nutrients that plants need, either bought as a ready mixed formular in water or as a powder to be dissolved in water, they are easy to apply.
Composition of Liquid Fertilizers
Liquid fertilizers usually contain a blend of three primary nutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). These are the main three food groups for plants.
- Nitrogen (N): Essential for green, leafy growth.
- Phosphorus (P): Encourages the growth of healthy roots and new shoots.
- Potassium (K): Helps keep plants strong and resistant to disease.
All fertilizers on the packaging label will show the N:P:K ratio listed in this order. For example, a ratio of 20-20-20 will clearly mean that it is an equal balance of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. In contrast, a ratio of 10-12-24 would indicate a higher potassium level.
Some liquid fertilizers have added minerals such as calcium, magnesium, sulphur and tiny amounts of trace elements like iron, manganese and zinc.
Before purchasing and using a fertilizer it is essential to carry out a pH test of your soil to ensure you apply a fertilizer with the ideal ratio of nutrients. A DIY soil testing kit is easy to use and can be purchased online or at your garden store.
Why Use Liquid Fertilizers For Grass?
- Quickly Absorbed: Grasses can soak up liquid fertilizer faster than granular types.
- Easy to Apply: Mixing liquid fertilizer with water and giving it to your lawn plants is straightforward.
- Controlled Dosage: With liquids, controlling how much fertilizer your lawn receives is easier. Too much or too little fertilizer can harm the grass, but liquids make it easier to apply the correct amount.
- Even Distribution: Liquid fertilizers spread evenly in the soil, resulting in all parts of the plant’s roots receiving equal nutrients.
- Flexibility: Liquid fertilizers can easily be mixed with herbicides or pesticides.
Granular Fertilizer for Grass
Granular fertilizers provide slow-release nutrition that sustains the lawn over a period of time. They are generally incorporated into granules and can be applied using a spreader. Granular fertilizers are typically cheaper to purchase than liquid fertilizers. They are cost-effective as they only need to be applied every two to three months, from early spring to late autumn.
They are ideal for healthy and established lawns that need gradual nutrients. However, granular fertilizers have individual nutrient components in each granule and can be more challenging to apply even distribution without specialist equipment.
Both liquid and granular fertilizers play a vital part and are equally important for your lawn to keep the grass healthy and green all year round. A liquid fertilizer with a higher nitrogen ratio is a fast-acting tonic. It can be applied every two to three weeks during the summer season to keep the grass green, in addition to the granular slow-release fertilizer.
How To Use Liquid Fertilizer For Grass?
Liquid fertilizers are fast-acting as plants quickly absorb nutrients through leaves and roots. Most are concentrates that you mix with water before applying. Here are easy guidelines to consider when using liquid fertilizer for your lawn:
- Read the label: To determine the recommended application rate and frequency. This is vital as excess amounts not absorbed by the grass will work their way into groundwater, streams and rivers and become a pollution that can devastate aquatic species.
- Mix the fertilizer: According to the manufacturer’s recommended ratio. The ratio may vary depending on the type of fertilizer and guidelines.
- Apply the fertilizer: To the grass using a hose-end or tank sprayer. Make sure to cover the entire lawn evenly.
- Water the lawn: Lightly after applying the liquid fertilizer to help the grass absorb the nutrients but not too much as nutrients could wash away.
- Repeat the process: As recommended on the label or more frequently on patchy areas that have been damaged or had more footfall. In general, every two-three weeks during the peak growing season, usually late spring to late summer, is enough.
When Is the Best Time to Fertilize Your Lawn Grass?
If you are starting a new lawn, using a specialized starter fertilizer with the perfect balance of nutrients specifically formulated to give your grass the best start is preferable.
Otherwise, the best times to fertilize an established lawn are late spring, summer, and late autumn.
Read the manufacturer’s guidelines on the label of the packaging and choose a ratio of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) according to the season and results of a pH test.
Spring
This is the time to fertilize with a low nitrogen ratio of 10 or less, as this is the time to ‘awaken’ your lawn and promote vigorous root growth instead of green leaf growth. A slow-release granule fertilizer would be ideal.
Summer
Requires a higher application of nitrogen to meet the demands of faster growth and promote a vibrant, green lawn. The nitrogen ratio should be 20 or more. Apply liquid fertilizers every two to three weeks as a fast-acting tonic to meet the demands of rapid growth, along with a slow-release granular fertilizer every six to eight weeks to sustain growth and healthy root development.
Autumn
As for spring, your lawn will require less nitrogen, and again, there should be a ratio of 10 or less. The second and third numbers should be higher than 10. Autumn is also a time to promote a solid root system for the following year and to enable the grass to survive the colder months. A higher ratio of phosphorus and potassium will be beneficial, and again, as for spring, slow-release fertilizer in granule form is ideal and a less expensive option.
Before fertilizing your lawn, remember to check the pH of your soil, which might already contain a composition of essential nutrients. Check the weather forecast, too, as rain can wash away any type of fertilizer, so it’s best to fertilize several days before or after predicted rain. In contrast, try not to fertilize amidst a heat wave or other extreme climate conditions like drought, as this can cause chemical burns to the foliage and roots.
Our most frequently asked questions on lawn fertilizer.
Why Do I Need Lawn Fertilizers?
Fertilizing your lawn is vital for several reasons:
- Nutrient Supply: Fertilization provides essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium essential for the growth of healthy grass blades. These nutrients help the grass develop strong roots, resist diseases, and maintain overall health.
- Soil Quality Maintenance: The soil loses vital nutrients to sustain healthy growth over time. Fertilizers help replace and replenish these essential nutrients, maintaining the soil’s quality and promoting a lush, green lawn.
- Pest and Disease Resistance: A well-fertilized lawn is more resistant to pests and diseases. It helps the grass develop a thick, healthy turf, making it more difficult for pests to take hold and reducing the likelihood of disease.
- Weed Reduction: Some fertilizers either include or can be mixed with weed-prevention treatments to help the grass grow stronger and, in time, smother out weeds.
- Overall Growth and Appearance: Fertilization promotes improved overall growth, leading to a thicker, lusher lawn with a more uniform appearance
Which Additional Products Should I Use with Lawn Fertilizer?
When using lawn fertilizer, consider these additional products for optimal lawn care:
- Weed Killer: To manage unwanted weeds that compete with grass for nutrients.
- Lime: If soil testing shows acidity, lime can help balance the pH level.
- Lawn Aerator: Aerating the lawn helps improve soil structure and nutrient absorption.
- Water: Regular watering is essential, especially after fertilizing, to help dissolve and distribute the nutrients.
- Pest Control: To manage any insect problems that could damage the lawn.
How Often Should I Apply Granular Lawn Fertilizers?
The frequency of how often to apply granular lawn fertilizers depends on the product and your lawn’s needs. Generally, for most lawns, it’s recommended to fertilize every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. However, it’s crucial to follow the instructions on the fertilizer product you’re using and consider the type of grass, climate, and soil conditions. Over-fertilizing can ruin your lawn and is not environmentally friendly. It’s a good idea to carry out regular pH soil tests as the nutrient level can alter over time, and understanding your lawn’s specific nutrient needs is vital for your lawn and the environment.
Final Words
Whether you choose liquid or granular fertilizers for your lawn, the key is understanding your lawn’s specific needs and the unique benefits each type offers.
From the quick action and precise control of liquid fertilizers to the long-lasting nourishment of granular options, both have their place in a healthy lawn care regime.