Whether seeding a new lawn, feeding an existing garden, or treating a yard for an insect infestation, a fertilizer spreader is an invaluable tool. These machines apply lawn care products quickly and evenly without requiring you to touch them, keeping you safe from contacting potentially dangerous chemicals and resulting in more consistent application with less product waste. In the winter, they can also be used to spread salt on icy walkways and paths. But knowing which spreader is right for your property and needs requires a little research, which is why we tested 13 popular models before selecting just nine to recommend. 

Based on our tests and the professional opinions of two lawn care experts, we chose the Earthway 50-lb. Commercial Broadcast Spreader as our top pick. This three-point fertilizer spreader holds a substantial amount of product, delivers a consistent spread pattern, and is easy to maneuver—even when full. However, there’s also a lot to like about the rest of the models that passed our tests, so it’s worth reviewing all of the best fertilizer spreaders before choosing the one that’s right for you.

1. BEST OVERALL: Earthway 50-lb. Commercial Broadcast Spreader
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2. RUNNER-UP: Titan Attachments Professional Broadcast Spreader
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3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader
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4. UPGRADE PICK: Scotts Elite Spreader
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5. BEST FOR LARGE YARDS: Agri-Fab 130-lb. Push Broadcast Spreader
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6. BEST PULL-BEHIND: Agri-Fab 130-lb. Tow-Behind Broadcast Spreader
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7. BEST DROP: Scotts Turf Builder Classic Drop Spreader
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8. BEST MANUAL HANDHELD: Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader
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9. BEST BATTERY HANDHELD: Ryobi 18V One+ 1-Gallon Power Spreader
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Fertilizer Spreaders Comparison Chart

Our Top Picks

Each of the following models earned a spot on our list based on their standout performance in our hands-on tests. Read on to learn more about their spreading capacity, holding capacity, precision, and method of operation.

Best Overall

Earthway 50-lb. Commercial Broadcast Spreader

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What We Like

• Heavy-duty steel T-handle, epoxy-coated frame, and pneumatic stud tires 
• Easy to operate and maneuver when full
• Instructions for assembly and use are simple to follow

What We Don’t Like

• Takes up a lot of storage space 
• Doesn’t come with a rain cover

Specs 

• Type: Walk-behind, rotary
• Capacity: 50 pounds
• Flow controller: Sliding lever

Our Ratings: Durability 5/5; Maneuverability 5/5; Ease of Assembly 5/5; Storage 3/5; Value 5/5

The Earthway walk-behind broadcast fertilizer spreader is a commercial-grade multiuse spreader sized for yards between 10,000 square feet and an acre. It features a heavy-duty poly hopper with a 50-pound capacity, and its frame has a 175-pound load-bearing limit for withstanding uneven terrain. The 13-inch-diameter stud tires are attached via rustproof rims, and the super-duty gearbox is durable enough to last for years.

While the assembly instructions for this pick were incredibly easy to follow, assembly and calibration still took a few hours. However, once we got started actually using this rugged yard fertilizer spreader, we found its two-position height adjustment handle and T-speed lever comfortable despite our different heights, and we liked how evenly the three-hole drop shut-off system delivered product across our lawn. Even when fully loaded, the air-filled pneumatic stud tires rolled effortlessly up and down slopes and over rough ground, cushioning bumps to maintain a highly consistent distribution pattern. In addition to being an excellent choice for year-round use as a lawn seed fertilizer spreader, this Earthway model would also work well with ice-melting products. 

What our tester says: “Once we got to testing this spreader, we both remarked on how durable it felt and how comfortable and easy it was to operate. Since it is on the large side, it would be nice if it had a rain cover so we could store it outside, but that’s really the only thing about this pick that we don’t love.”—Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer 

Get the Earthway fertilizer spreader at Amazon, The Home Depot, Walmart, Northern Tool + Equipment, or Earthway.

Runner-up

Titan Attachments Professional Broadcast Spreader

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What We Like

• Large hopper is ideal for big properties
• 3-position handle makes it easy to control flow
• Comes with a rain cover for outdoor storage 

What We Don’t Like

• Instructions are a bit hard to follow
• Too large for most small- and medium-sized yards

Specs 

• Type: Walk-behind, rotary
• Capacity: 50 pounds
• Flow controller: Sliding lever

Our Ratings: Durability 5/5; Maneuverability 5/5; Ease of Assembly 4/5; Storage 4/5; Value 4.5/5

Titan Attachments broadcast fertilizer and seed spreader is a versatile, high-capacity tool designed to evenly distribute herbicides, fertilizers, insecticides, grass seed, and even ice melt. With a 50-pound drum and three-position gearbox, it holds plenty of product and is easy to control for consistent application.

Built for year-round use, this spreader features a high-grade steel frame, heavy-duty plastic components, and pneumatic tires that make it possible to run on turf or sod without damaging the grass. Despite its sturdy construction, it only weighs 25 pounds, making it light enough to maneuver without much effort but heavy enough to tackle hilly, root-filled, and rugged terrain. It covers a wide path for efficient lawn fertilizer application and is probably best for open spaces that are 10,000 square feet or larger. Though it was relatively quick to assemble and calibrate at about an hour and 15 minutes, the instructions would be fairly hard to follow if you didn’t have much experience putting this type of tool together. 

Get the Titan Attachments fertilizer spreader at Amazon, Walmart, or Titan Attachments.

Best Bang for the Buck

Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader

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What We Like

• Comes precalibrated and fully assembled
• Folds down for storage 
• EdgeGuard feature keeps fertilizer on lawns only

What We Don’t Like

• Hard to get the last bit of fertilizer out 
• Can be difficult to maneuver on uneven ground

Specs 

• Type: Walk-behind, rotary
• Capacity: 25 pounds
• Flow controller: Dial and spring lever

Our Ratings: Durability 3/5; Maneuverability 3/5; Ease of Assembly 5/5; Storage 5/5; Value 5/5

Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard mini broadcast spreader is small, lightweight, and easy to store, making it ideal for those with limited space. Though it can hold up to 5,000 square feet of lawn products for yards up to 10,000 square feet, its fold-down handle makes it easy to tuck out of the way when the work is complete. It also includes a control panel with precision rate settings for more accurate coverage and an EdgeGuard feature that blocks the right side to prevent fertilizer from spraying onto sidewalks or flower beds. 

During testing, we appreciated that this little spreader didn’t need any assembly. Its hard plastic wheels came attached and the spreader itself was already calibrated. Still, the wheels are fairly skinny and hard, so they didn’t roll as smoothly across uneven ground as air-filled tires. Also, we noticed that the last bits of product always got stuck to the bottom of the spreader due to static buildup. For the price, though? It’s a great choice for homeowners with small- to mid-sized yards and limited storage space who still want easy operation and precision coverage. 

Get the Scotts EdgeGuard fertilizer spreader at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, Walmart, or Scotts.

Upgrade Pick

Scotts Elite Spreader

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What We Like

• 2 rotors for consistent coverage
• Holds up to 60 pounds to treat over 20,000 square feet 
• Arrives calibrated and mostly preassembled and folds for storage

What We Don’t Like

• Some fertilizer discharges toward the wheel during use 
• Wheels aren’t great for rough ground

Specs 

• Type: Walk-behind, rotary
• Capacity: 60 pounds
• Flow controller: Dial and spring lever

Our Ratings: Durability 4/5; Maneuverability 3/5; Ease of Assembly 4/5; Storage 4/5; Value 4/5

The Scotts Elite spreader is a high-capacity option designed to efficiently cover up to 20,000 square feet with 60 pounds of product. Its twin discharge design evenly lays down material in a 6-foot-wide path, meaning it spreads fertilizer twice as fast as more basic models. 

Assembly of the Scotts Elite was quick and easy—all we had to do was snap on the wheels and unfold the handle. The soft plastic wheels rolled much more easily over varying terrain than the standard hard-plastic wheels on less expensive Scotts spreaders, but not as well as air-filled tires. We liked that the comfortable ergonomic handle has a smartphone holder so you can stay connected as you work. This is also a versatile spreader since it can accommodate large particles of corrosive rock salt in addition to standard-sized ice melt, making it a good all-around spreader for midsize suburban yards, especially in icy climates. 

Get the Scotts Elite fertilizer spreader at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, Walmart, Blain’s Farm & Fleet, or Scotts.

Best for Large Yards

Agri-Fab 130-lb. Push Broadcast Spreader

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What We Like

• Holds 130 pounds, covering up to 25,000 square feet 
• Large air-filled pneumatic tires 
• Easy to smoothly control fertilizer flow 

What We Don’t Like

• Gearbox feels a bit undersized for so much weight
• Coverage path also feels narrow for such a big machine

Specs 

• Type: Walk-behind, rotary
• Capacity: 130 pounds
• Flow controller: Sliding lever

Our Ratings: Durability 4/5; Maneuverability 5/5; Ease of Assembly 2/5; Storage 2/5; Value 4/5

The Agri-Fab push broadcast spreader is big enough to apply conventional or organic lawn fertilizer to yards of up to 1 acre. With a 130-pound hopper, it holds nearly three times as much product as our top two picks. Depending on how you have it set, it can distribute a path width of 8 to 12 feet and cover up to 25,000 square feet with each load. 

Despite its large capacity, this lightweight spreader weighs only 6.81 pounds, enabling excellent maneuverability even when full. Its steel rod flow-control arm makes it easy for users to open and close the rustproof poly-constructed hopper, and the heavy-duty 1-inch pneumatic tires offer a smooth ride even over roots and rocks or through dips in the yard.

Assembly of this spreader takes about an hour, plus you’ll need another 10 minutes or so to calibrate it. Although the coverage path is similar to 50-pounder spreaders, the massive hopper reduces time spent refilling, making it an efficient option for larger properties. 

Get the Agri-Fab push fertilizer spreader at Amazon, Tractor Supply Co., Northern Tool + Equipment, or Target.

Best Pull-Behind

Agri-Fab 130-lb. Tow-Behind Broadcast Spreader

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What We Like

• Low center of gravity increases stability 
• Durable steel frame and 13-inch pneumatic tires
• Short trailer tongue makes it easy to maneuver

What We Don’t Like

• Control arm awkward to maneuver from mower seat
• Gearbox seems a bit undersized

Specs 

• Type: Tow-behind, rotary
• Capacity: 130 pounds
• Flow controller: Sliding lever

Our Ratings: Durability 4/5; Maneuverability 4/5; Ease of Assembly 3/5; Storage 2/5; Value 4/5 

The Agri-Fab pull-behind fertilizer spreader functions as a large motorized fertilizer spreader when attached to a lawn tractor, riding lawn mower, or other vehicle via its universal hitch. Designed for properties of 1 acre or more, it features a 130-pound heavy-duty plastic hopper and a steel direct flow control arm, which is accessible from the driver’s seat for quick and even application of seed and other lawn care materials.

When trying out this tow-behind model, we liked its squatty dimensions, short hitch length, and 13-inch pneumatic tires, which made it highly maneuverable, even around curves. The low height also allowed for easier loading and improved stability on hilly ground. However, we found the control lever, located on the trailer tongue, to be somewhat awkward to operate from the mower seat. 

Get the Agri-Fab tow-behind fertilizer spreader at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., Ace Hardware, Walmart, Northern Tool + Equipment, Target, Blain’s Farm & Fleet.

Best Drop

Scotts Turf Builder Classic Drop Spreader

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What We Like

• Built-in cable-driven gate control for accurate application
• Heavy-duty frame built for long-term use 
• Works well along flower beds and gardens 

What We Don’t Like

• Too small for large spaces
• Plastic wheels aren’t great for uneven ground

Specs 

• Type: Walk-behind, drop
• Capacity: 32 pounds
• Flow controller: Dial and spring lever

Our Ratings: Durability 3/5; Maneuverability 3/5; Ease of Assembly 5/5; Storage 4/5; Value 5/5

The Scotts classic drop spreader is a reliable choice for small properties. Its heavy-duty plastic hopper holds 32 pounds of fertilizer for new grass or already established lawns, which is enough to cover up to 10,000 square feet. It features a 22-inch spread pattern for excellent coverage and accuracy, controllable by a cable-driven gate on the handle. Select from 23 spreader settings to customize the application rate and then squeeze the handle to open the hopper to let it flow. 

We liked that this spreader came preassembled and calibrated. It also laid a highly consistent path of fertilizer, but we had to pay attention to prevent gaps in coverage. Like many other Scotts spreaders, this one features hard plastic wheels that sometimes struggle on uneven ground or imperfect grass. Its tubular frame seems strong and durable, but the other parts are mainly lightweight plastic. This would make a good fertilizer spreader for occasional use, especially if the property has numerous plant beds, sidewalks, tree rings, and other obstacles that users need to work around.

Get the Scotts Classic fertilizer spreader at Amazon or Ace Hardware.

Best Manual Handheld

Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader

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What We Like

• Takes up almost no storage space
• Noncorrosive materials also compatible with garden fertilizers, weed killers, and ice melt
• No assembly required 

What We Don’t Like

• Less accurate than walk-behind spreaders
• Flow can be inconsistent at times

Specs 

• Type: Handheld, rotary
• Capacity: 2 pounds
• Flow controller: Dial and spring trigger

Our Ratings: Durability 4/5; Maneuverability 5/5; Ease of Assembly 5/5; Storage 5/5; Value 4/5

The Scotts Whirl fertilizer hand spreader is a convenient year-round tool for small yards. It measures just 8.5 inches high by 8.7 inches wide by 13.1 inches deep and weighs only about a pound, making it convenient to carry and store. Since it’s constructed from heavy-duty plastic, it’s safe to use with everything from spring and winter grass fertilizer to ice melt without worrying about corrosion, as you might with a spreader with metal components.

We liked this spreader because it takes up almost no storage space and is super easy to operate. All we had to do was fill the hopper, squeeze the trigger, and turn the handle. It has an adjustment dial to control the opening width, and the trigger opens the hopper gate to release the material as you turn the baseplate crank. There’s even a slide-out wrist support to help steady the hopper and reduce operator fatigue during use. This would be a good tool for seeding bare spots created by chinch bug damage, treating difficult-to-reach areas, or spreading ice-melt products.

Get the Scotts Whirl fertilizer spreader at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, Walmart, or Target.

Best Battery Handheld

Ryobi 18V One+ 1-Gallon Power Spreader

See It

What We Like

• No assembly required
• Great for small areas or more precise application
• Works with everything from organic fertilizer to ice melt

What We Don’t Like

• Battery sold separately 
• No always-on setting

Specs 

• Type: Handheld, rotary
• Capacity: 10 pounds
• Flow controller: Dial and sliding lever

Our Ratings: Durability 4/5; Maneuverability 5/5; Ease of Assembly 5/5; Storage 5/5; Value 4.25/5

The Ryobi 18V (volt) One+ 1-gallon power spreader is a cordless battery-powered tool that makes it easy to distribute fertilizer and seed as well as ice melt. Compatible with the brand’s One+ battery system and equipped with a 10-pound hopper, it’s great for quick and easy application in small- to medium-sized spaces. It features an adjustable flow rate that allows you to customize spread based on material and desired coverage and a lightweight design that’s easy to maneuver, especially compared to large, push-type spreaders.

Those looking to cover a large property will likely find their hand getting tired since there’s no always-on setting. Instead, users must hold the trigger down to propel product out, making it a better option for spot treatments or small spaces. However, if you already own compatible 18V Ryobi tools and prefer the precision of a hand spreader, it’s an excellent option.

What our tester says: “I like this little battery-powered hand spreader for spot-treating areas of my yard that seem to struggle, but I also used it this past winter to apply salt to my front porch and steps so delivery people didn’t slip. Since I already had other 18V Ryobi tools, this multi-function spreader made an especially nice addition to my lineup.”—Michelle Larson, Product Reviews tester and writer 

Get the Ryobi fertilizer spreader (tool only) at The Home Depot.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Fertilizer Spreaders

Testing fertilizer spreaders meant rating them based on ease of assembly and calibration; distribution width, accuracy, and consistency; ease of controlling the on-off function while in motion; maneuverability over varying terrain; and user comfort.

To arrive at these ratings, we assembled each model, loaded them with lawn fertilizer, and ran them across a tarp on level ground, measuring discharge width and consistency. During that process, we tested the on-off functionality while moving, which is important at start-up and when preparing for end turns. Finally, we pushed or pulled each spreader through a variable-terrain course, observing the way it rolled over bumps and dips and navigated corners. 

What to Consider When Choosing a Fertilizer Spreader

To help us determine which fertilizer spreader features matter most, we also spoke to Taylor Olberding, co-founder of nationwide lawn maintenance company Heroes Lawn Care, for his professional opinion. In addition to considering your property’s size and unique features, it’s also important to consider whether you’d rather push, pull, or carry the spreader and whether there are any extras that might make using it more comfortable. You’ll also want to pay attention to what it’s made from since some materials are more durable than others. 

According to Olberding, users should “Ensure it has air-filled tires (not plastic tires), is made of stainless steel/noncorrosive material with a plastic hopper, and can be easily configured based on the fertilizer product.” He also adds, “Ensure you are able to adjust the openings for accurate application and have an edge guard to help prevent fertilizer from spreading onto nontarget areas.”

Types of Fertilizer Spreaders

Two basic types of spreaders exist for dry applications––rotary spreaders, also known as broadcast spreaders—and drop spreaders. There are also spreaders designed for liquid products, including homemade lawn fertilizer. 

Rotary/Broadcast Spreaders

A rotary spreader uses a rotating base plate to disperse seeds or granules that pour slowly from a hopper. They are called broadcast spreaders because they throw the product several feet to the front and sides of the spreader path. 

Rotary spreaders cover an area three times their width, or broader, on every pass. These are the fastest tools you can use to spread dry materials, but their spreading abilities are less accurate than those of drop spreaders. Rotary spreaders are available in several sizes, so you can buy one that works for a tiny garden, a large estate lawn, and anything in the middle.

Drop Spreaders

When precision is critical, choose a drop spreader. These devices drop a swath of product through a wide, narrow opening directly beneath the spreader. They provide calibrated coverage, but the precision boosts the chance that the user will miss or double-cover an area. 

For users who have precise application needs, this tool is ideal. Users can easily control where a drop spreader distributes the product because it only drops between its wheels. The downside is that users will spend more time covering a lawn using a drop spreader than a rotary spreader.

Liquid/Spray Spreaders

The most efficient way to spread liquid fertilizer and other liquid lawn treatments is with a hose-end chemical spreader/sprayer. These devices automatically mix the correct proportion of concentrated chemicals with a flowing stream of water that travels through the spreader and out the nozzle. 

Liquid spreaders are especially useful as secondary tools for emergency treatments and for applying product quickly, although they are less accurate than the other two types of spreaders. Remember, too, that liquid lawn chemicals deliver fast results, but most liquids dissipate more quickly than granules, so regular use is costly.

Method of Operation 

The most popular spreaders are broadcast because they offer a balance between speed and precision. Manufacturers make these spreaders in a wide range of sizes, including everything from small, handheld models to extra-large spreaders that can be pulled behind vehicles.

Drop spreaders are the best choice when users must navigate obstacles and narrow spaces. They work exceptionally well on small to medium intensively landscaped yards.

Holding Capacity

It is important to know the spreader’s holding capacity because that will determine how often the spreader will have to be refilled based on the size of the area it needs to cover. Ideally, users will want to simply fill the spreader once and deposit the treatment over the entire area.

Holding capacity and lawn size go hand in hand. A handheld spreader is well suited for small lawns up to 1,500 square feet. For medium-sized lawns up to 5,000 square feet, a small walk-behind spreader suits the job. Large walk-behind spreaders work well for yards up to about 20,000 square feet. Go for a tow-behind spreader if the yard is larger than half an acre.

Spreading Capacity 

Spreading capacity refers to the types of fertilizers or materials a spreader can handle. The best fertilizer spreaders can help with planting grass seeds and distributing pelletized chemicals, but far fewer can handle sand, powdered lime, and compost.

Precision 

All lawn spreaders deliver better precision than spreading fertilizer by hand, making them useful tools since applying too much or too little product is one of the most common fertilizer mistakes people make. Still, some spreaders are more precise than their competitors, and spreaders that are more accurate tend to be slower. For example, drop spreaders are precise but slow, whereas broadcast spreaders are a bit less accurate but fast. Liquid spreaders are not exact, but they are quite quick.

Drop spreaders are the most precise because manufacturers calibrate them for a consistent flow rate to spread only a thin band directly beneath the hopper and between the wheels. You can calibrate a broadcast spreader to deliver a steady flow rate, but you must walk at a consistent pace for even coverage. Manufacturers calibrate liquid spreaders to mix the amount of concentrate per gallon of water accurately, but you are in control of the coverage.

The Advantages of Owning a Fertilizer Spreader 

A fertilizer spreader simplifies lawn treatments because it allows users to quickly and evenly apply seed, fertilizer, and lawn pest control products. You will also save time and money using a spreader because it allows you to quickly and evenly apply lawn products.

• Spreaders apply lawn treatments far more evenly than hand spreading.
• Fertilizer spreaders significantly reduce the time and effort users expend to apply lawn treatments.
• The use of a fertilizer spreader for lawns minimizes the user’s exposure to chemicals.

FAQs

Even if you’ve already chosen the best fertilizer spreader for your yard, you may still have a few questions. The following answers to frequently asked questions should fill in any remaining gaps in your knowledge about operating and caring for these tools.

Meet the Tester

Mark Wolfe is a product tester and writer with an extensive background in the nursery and landscaping industries. He kept his tool box well stocked in order to build or repair fences, walls, irrigation systems, and equipment on any given day. Now he tests and writes reviews about the latest hand tools, lawn care products, outdoor power equipment, and other outdoor-living goods.

The post Yes, You Need a Fertilizer Spreader (Not Your Hands) To Treat Your Lawn—These 9 Tested Best appeared first on Bob Vila.

Fertilizers for Bermuda grass are high in nitrogen with lower levels of phosphorus and potassium, providing the nutrients this warm-season grass needs to grow into a lush green lawn. Drought tolerant and not picky about the soil in which it grows, Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon) is soft yet tough enough to stand up to kids, pets, and other traffic. Though it’s relatively easy to care for, it’s still important to choose the right lawn care products for growing Bermuda grass to ensure a strong and healthy lawn.

To help you select a good fertilizer for Bermuda grass, we spoke to an award-winning landscape contractor and international arborist about which types of fertilizers are best and how to apply them. Based on our research, our top pick is the Scotts Southern Turf Builder Lawn Food—a high-nitrogen fertilizer that enhances nutrient and water absorption. For the healthiest and best-looking lawn, we recommend you review all of our fertilizer recommendations before selecting one of the best fertilizers for Bermuda grass to meet your lawn’s needs.

1. BEST OVERALL: Scotts Southern Turf Builder Lawn Food
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food
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3. BEST ORGANIC: Jonathan Green Organic Lawn Food
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4. BEST LIQUID: Simple Lawn Solutions Energizer Micronutrient Blend
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5. BEST NITROGEN ONLY: Simple Lawn Solutions High Nitrogen Lawn Food
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6. BEST FAST-ACTING: Scotts Green Max Lawn Food
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7. BEST FOR NEW GRASS: Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food
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Fertilizers for Bermuda Grass Comparison Chart

Our Top Picks

Without the proper fertilizer or weed and feed for Bermuda grass, your lawn may look sickly and sparse. Each of the following fertilizers provides the nutrients Bermuda lawns need, enhancing color uniformity and promoting a thick, dense turf. 

Best Overall

Scotts Southern Turf Builder Lawn Food

See It

What We Like

• Feeds for up to 8 weeks
• 3 sizes for various property needs 
• Helps lawns absorb water and nutrients

What We Don’t Like

• Can’t be used within 1 month of first frost

Specs

• NPK ratio: 32-0-10
• Quantity: 14.06, 28.12, or 42.18 pounds
• Coverage: 5,000, 10,000, or 15,000 square feet

The Scotts Southern Turf Builder lawn food is specifically designed for warm-season grasses like Bermuda grass. Its 32-0-10 NPK ratio provides an ample dose of nitrogen to promote lush, green growth while also supplying a good amount of potassium for enhanced drought and heat tolerance. Though this is our top pick for Bermuda lawn maintenance, it’s safe for use on all grass types and can also be applied while lawns are wet or dry. When used as directed, you can walk on it immediately after application, making it a smart choice for families and pet owners. 

This Bermuda grass care product uses Scotts’ All-in-One Particles technology to build strong, deep roots that can withstand challenging conditions. We also really like that it comes in three sizes yet only requires application every 6 to 8 weeks. Depending on the size of your yard, you may only need one bag. Though watering is not required after application, Scotts says light watering will help it act faster.

Get the Scotts Southern fertilizer for Bermuda grass at Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Walmart, or Scotts.

Best Bang for the Buck

Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food

See It

What We Like

• Dissolves easily when used with a Garden Feeder
• Feeds up to 7,200 square feet of Bermuda grass
• Starts feeding instantly for quick results

What We Don’t Like

• Ideal application method requires additional purchase

Specs

• NPK ratio: 36-0-6
• Quantity: 5 pounds
• Coverage: 7,200 square feet

Miracle-Gro’s water-soluble lawn food is a fast-acting fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 36-0-6 designed to promote a lush lawn. Its high concentration of nitrogen plus added iron help grass develop a gorgeous green color within days of application. This Miracle-Gro fertilizer is safe for use on both warm- and cool-season grasses and is easy to apply with the aid of the brand’s hose-end garden feeder (sold separately)—simply fill the dispenser with the water-soluble granules, attach a garden hose, and spray the lawn in a uniform pattern. When applied in this way, a 5-pound container can feed lawns up to 7,200 square feet.

Miracle-Gro recommends using this product for Bermuda grass lawn care every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season. The quick-release formula provides a rapid nutrient boost, making it ideal for lawns in poor condition. 

Get the Miracle-Gro fertilizer for Bermuda grass at Amazon, Ace Hardware, Walmart, or Miracle-Gro.

Best Organic

Jonathan Green Organic Lawn Food

See It

What We Like

• Safe to walk on immediately 
• Works for up to 10 weeks
• Overapplication doesn’t cause turf burn

What We Don’t Like

• Needs to be applied when lawn is dry and recently mowed

Specs

• NPK ratio: 10-0-1 
• Quantity: 17 or 51 pounds
• Coverage: 5,000 or 15,000 square feet

Jonathan Green’s organic lawn food is a granular fertilizer for Bermuda grass made from a mix of plant and animal proteins like feather meal, soybean meal, molasses, and wheat middlings. Its 10-0-1 NPK slow-release formula provides a steady delivery of nitrogen as well as supplemental iron to keep grass green and lush for up to 10 weeks. 

This organic fertilizer is safe for kids and pets to walk on immediately after application, and even when overapplied, it won’t burn your grass. It’s well suited to both cold- and warm-season grasses and can be used in spring, summer, or fall. For best results, the manufacturer suggests distributing it when grass is dry and has been recently mowed. It’s available in either a 17-pound bag covering up to 5,000 square feet or a 51-pound bag that feeds up to 15,000 square feet, making it easy to find the right fit for lawns of all sizes.

Get the Jonathan Green lawn fertilizer for Bermuda grass at Amazon, Walmart, or Johnathan Green. 

Best Liquid

Simple Lawn Solutions Energizer Micronutrient Blend

See It

What We Like

• Comes with a hose attachment
• Ideal for small to medium lawns
• Easy-to-use liquid solution

What We Don’t Like

• 1 bottle won’t be enough for large lawns

Specs

• NPK ratio: 6-0-0
• Quantity: 32 ounces
• Coverage: 3,200 square feet

The Simple Lawn Solutions lawn energizer has a simple 6-0-0 NPK ratio with added nutrients like sulfur, magnesium, and manganese. This formula helps improve soil composition and supports enzyme production, protein synthesis, and nutrient absorption for a healthy, thick lawn. It’s also enhanced with iron, helping grass produce chlorophyll to create an intensely green hue.

Since this is a liquid pick, its uptake into grass roots and blades is relatively quick, so you should notice results within days of application. Though we chose the 32-ounce size for inclusion in our list, this product is also available in 1- and 2.5-gallon containers—they just don’t come with the convenient spray applicator attached. Since this concentrated product must be diluted, it may be smart to buy the bottle with the applicator first and refill it with more budget-friendly bottles for subsequent use. The 32-ounce size will treat up to 3,200 square feet, while the 2.5-gallon jug covers up to 32,000 square feet. 

Get the Simple Lawn Solutions energizer fertilizer for Bermuda grass at Amazon or Simple Lawn Solutions.

Best Nitrogen Only

Simple Lawn Solutions High Nitrogen Lawn Food

See It

What We Like

• Uses a blend of quick- and slow-release nitrogen
• Comes in a ready-to-use sprayer and bigger jugs
• Can be used on all types of grass

What We Don’t Like

• Sprayer bottle has limited coverage

Specs

• NPK ratio: 28-0-0
• Quantity: 32 ounces
• Coverage: 3,200 square feet

If you want immediate greening and lasting results, Simple Lawn Solutions high-nitrogen lawn food is the pick for you. The concentrated liquid has a 28-0-0 NPK ratio with 70 percent quick-release and 30 percent slow-release nitrogen to get Bermuda grass lawns healthy and keep them that way. Like the other Simple Lawn Solutions product on this list, this one is available in a convenient 32-ounce hose-end dispenser jug for easy application over 3,200 square feet of lawn as well as larger bottles that don’t have the sprayer. 

This nitrogen-only product is particularly effective for treating nitrogen deficiencies and enhancing lawn thickness. It’s suitable for use on all types of grass and shows results within days. Still, the fact that it comes in a ready-to-spray bottle does bump up the price a bit, so you may want to buy larger refill bottles after your initial purchase to help bring the overall cost down. 

Get the Simple Lawn Solutions high-nitrogen fertilizer for Bermuda grass at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Simple Lawn Solutions.

Best Fast-Acting

Scotts Green Max Lawn Food

See It

What We Like

• Has added iron for enhanced greening
• Results in just 3 days; works for up to 8 weeks
• Also available in a ready-to-spray liquid formula

What We Don’t Like

• Can cause turf burn if overapplied

Specs

• NPK ratio: 27-0-2
• Quantity: 16.67 or 33.33 pounds
• Coverage: 5,000 or 10,000 square feet

Scotts Green Max lawn food is a dual-action fertilizer that delivers quick greening and thickening for Bermuda grass and all other lawn types. Its 27-0-2 NPK ratio formula also includes 5 percent iron for enhancing greening in just 3 days, and it can be applied in the spring, summer, or fall. You can spread it while grass is wet or dry and walk over it immediately after. 

Like all high-nitrogen fertilizers, this pick can cause burn grass if overapplied. For best results, Scotts recommends using it with a broadcast/rotary spreader on a setting of 3¼ to 3¾ or a drop spreader on 7 to 7½. A 16.67-pound bag is enough to cover up to 5,000 square feet, and it’s also available in 33.33-pound packages that feed up to 10,000 square feet.

Get the Scotts Green Max fertilizer for Bermuda grass at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., Ace Hardware, Walmart, or Scotts.

Best for New Grass

Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food

See It

What We Like

• Safe for use when seeding
• Promotes root development to prevent future problems
• Compatible with any grass type

What We Don’t Like

• Some reports of increased weed growth

Specs

• NPK ratio: 32-0-4
• Quantity: 12.5 or 37.5 pounds
• Coverage: 5,000 or 15,000 square feet

This Turf Builder lawn food from Scotts is safe to use when seeding and helps build deep roots to encourage quick and vigorous growth. Its high nitrogen content is compatible with all grass types, aiding each in absorbing water and nutrients. By encouraging such strong growth, this pick protects your lawn against future problems.

This granular fertilizer comes in 12.5- and 37.5-pound bags for 5,000 or 15,000 square feet of coverage, respectively. It’s easy to apply using a spreader, and Scotts has setting instructions on the back of the bag. For quick results, the company recommends watering after application, though it’s not necessary. Scotts also says your lawn will look its best if you use this product every 6 to 8 weeks during the growing season. 

Get the Scotts Turf Builder fertilizer for Bermuda grass at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, Walmart, or Scotts.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose the Best Fertilizers for Bermuda Grass

To gather our list of top picks for Bermuda grass fertilizer, we drew on our team’s lawn care experience and the advice of a landscaping expert. We identified the most important features to look for first and then found a variety of products that met those criteria. 

To ensure compatibility with Bermuda grass specifically, we prioritized fertilizers with high amounts of nitrogen, no phosphorus, and relatively low levels of potassium. We also considered ease of application, including frequency of suggested feedings, and looked for both liquid and granular options as well as synthetic and organic options. Lastly, we prioritized products that come in a range of sizes so shoppers with small and large lawns have plenty of excellent fertilizers to choose from. 

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Fertilizer for Bermuda Grass

Reviewing the following considerations prior to making your final fertilizer selection will help ensure you choose the right product for your needs. 

Fertilizer Types

Lawn fertilizers come in three main types: liquid, granular, and water-soluble. Each has its benefits and drawbacks.

• Liquid: This type of fertilizer gives Bermuda grass a quick burst of nutrients as the grass absorbs them directly through its foliage, which is the quickest way. However, due to their short-lived effects, they typically require more frequent applications. Liquid lawn fertilizers often come concentrated and require a garden-type pump sprayer or hose-end dispenser for application.
• Granular: Dry granular fertilizers come in tiny pebbles for application with push-type fertilizer spreaders. Some formulations dissolve slowly to release nutrients over time, though some contain a percentage of quick-release nutrients for faster results. Generally speaking, the overall effects of granular fertilizers last longer than those of liquid products, allowing for less frequent applications.
• Water-soluble: Water-soluble fertilizers are small, sand-like bits that dissolve quickly in water. They’re typically used with a hose-end dispenser so lawnkeepers can fertilize and water the grass simultaneously. Because water-soluble fertilizers generally require a hose for application, they’re best for smaller yards.

NPK Ratio 

Commercial lawn and yard fertilizers contain premeasured quantities of nitrogen (N), which stimulates leafy green growth; phosphorus (P), which plays a vital role in flower and fruit production; and potassium (K), which boosts overall plant health. These three nutrients are listed on the fertilizer package by weight. 

The best fertilizer for Bermuda grass will have an N-P-K ratio high in nitrogen with little or no phosphorus and a small amount of potassium. For example, an NPK ratio of 32-0-10 contains 32 percent nitrogen, no phosphorus, and 10 percent potassium. This is a great ratio for Bermuda grass. 

Organic vs. Synthetic 

Most lawn fertilizers contain synthetic ingredients, but the demand for organic fertilizers made of natural ingredients is increasing. 

• Organic: Natural lawn fertilizers contain various blends of nonchemical nutrients, such as poultry manure, compost, livestock manure, and earthworm castings. They often cost more because the ingredients require more work to collect, treat, and turn into fertilizer. Most organic lawn fertilizers come in granule form and don’t cause harm to plants or aquatic life if they drain into waterways.
• Synthetic: Formulated in a lab with chemicals or artificial versions of natural ingredients, synthetic fertilizers contain concentrated nutrients, such as potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen. Some brands contain other minerals, including calcium or boron, to increase soil health. Excess chemical runoff from synthetic fertilizers may harm fish if it gets into waterways and ponds.

Application

Many types of Bermuda grass require fertilizing only once or twice per growing season to reach their full potential, but some of the new hybrid forms of Bermuda grass, such as Midway, Tifway, or Tifgreen, benefit from more frequent applications. 

The first fertilizer application of the year should be after late spring or early summer once the grass is fully green. At this time, growers can apply an all-purpose lawn fertilizer with a high ratio of nitrogen according to the instructions on the package. If you intend to overseed with more Bermuda grass seed, wait 2 weeks after fertilizing. 

Depending on the product you’re using, you may need to apply a second round of fertilizer in midsummer and a third in the fall. You may want to use a lawn fertilizer containing a higher level of potassium for the fall application, as this will help with disease resistance and root strength for Bermuda grass in winter.

For the best long-term results, consider having the soil tested for deficiencies and add additional nutrients as needed. In most communities, growers can take soil samples to their local County Extension Agency for a comprehensive soil test and nutrient recommendations.

FAQs

Though you probably aren’t still asking, “What is Bermuda grass?” you may still have questions about fertilizing this type of grass. Read on for answers to the most commonly asked questions about the best fertilizers for Bermuda grass. 

The post Is Your Bermuda Grass Looking Patchy? Here’s the Best Fertilizer To Fix It appeared first on Bob Vila.

A drab, weedy lawn isn’t a lost cause with the help of modern weed and feed fertilizers. Designed to introduce essential nutrients to accelerate the grass’s growth, these products help lawns grow thick and healthy. At the same time, they put the hurt on weeds to choke out the plants you don’t want in favor of the lush carpet of greenery you do. After researching the top fertilizer mixes, we tested eight of the top weed and feeds on a lawn that needed some serious help. These weed and feed products were all tested for at least 4 weeks with varying results and levels of success.

After testing, we can say that our favorite is the GreenView Broadleaf Weed Control Plus Lawn Food. It’s highly concentrated, so it doesn’t take much product to make a big difference. We tested the products in a grid, and the square with this product outgrew (and out-greened) all the others. 

The test lawn needed both nutrients and weed reduction, so it gave us the perfect canvas for testing. Keep reading to get a look at how the best weed and feed performed in real-world conditions and what kind of growth (and weed death) you can expect in your own yard.

1. BEST OVERALL: GreenView Broadleaf Weed Control Plus Lawn Food
   ↓ Jump to Review
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed
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3. UPGRADE PICK: BioAdvanced 5-in-1 Weed & Feed
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4. BEST NATURAL: Espoma Organic Weed Preventer
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5. BEST COOL-SEASON: GreenView Fairway Formula Spring Weed and Feed
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6. BEST WARM-SEASON: Scotts Turf Builder Southern Triple Action
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7. BEST LIQUID: Scotts Liquid Turf Builder With Plus 2 Weed Control
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Before You Buy Weed and Feed 

Maintaining a healthy lawn includes mowing, weeding, watering, and fertilizing. However, fertilizing isn’t always necessary. Overfertilizing a lawn will make the grass grow more vigorously, requiring more frequent mowing or leading to runoff, which ends up in the local watershed. 

Excessive fertilizing can also result in lawn burn, which is when the nitrogen and salt levels in the soil are too high and cause yellow to brown strips or patches of dead grass. A lawn only needs fertilizing if the soil lacks the vital nutrients to help it grow. Home soil test kits can be used to check the soil composition and help you decide what type of fertilizer will best nourish your grass. 

Product Comparison

Our Top Picks

The following list includes the fertilizers that stood out during research and were then tested to narrow the field to some of the most effective weed and feeds on the market. This list includes both liquid and granular weed treatments. 

Best Overall

GreenView Broadleaf Weed Control Plus Lawn Food

See It

What We Like

• Doesn’t require a lot of product to make a difference
• Capable of killing over 250 weed varieties
• Slow-release nitrogen formula
• Made a noticeable difference in grass growth rate and health

What We Don’t Like

• Should not be used on Floratam St. Augustine, Dichondra, and carpet grass 
• Contains 2,4-D

Our Ratings: Application 5/5; Feed Effectiveness 5/5; Weed Control 2.5/5; Value 5/5 

Product Specs 

• NPK ratio: 27-0-4
• Application: Spring or early fall
• Grass type: Kentucky bluegrass, fine and tall fescues, perennial ryegrass, Bahia, St. Augustine, common Bermuda, hybrid Bermuda, zoysia, centipede, Colonial bent

Taking care of a lawn and reducing common weeds is part of property ownership, and for those who want to spruce up lawn health quickly, this GreenView weed and feed mix can do it. This fertilizer and weed killer for lawns is made with a slow-release nitrogen formula that thickens grass, without excessive growth, targeting 250 weed varieties, including dandelions, clover, plantain, dollar weed, and ground ivy. It was the top performer in our testing, creating grass that outgrew the rest. It’s also a great spring or fall weed and feed.

The granules are effective for over 8 weeks and are safe to use on warm- and cool-season grass types, though there are a few varieties to avoid. Plus, the slow release nitrogen is safer to use when temperatures start to rise without burning the grass or causing other lawn injury.

The grass was noticeably taller and greener in the square with this GreenView mix. It’s also a highly concentrated fertilizer and weed preventer, so it doesn’t take a large amount to make a big difference in lawn health. While it didn’t kill existing weeds, fewer weeds grew in the area where this mix was applied. Our only issue with this product is that it contains 2,4-D (as did almost all of the other synthetic products in this test), which has the potential to affect human health and the environment. Make sure to read the application instructions to reduce the potential harmful effects.

Get the GreenView broadleaf weed and feed at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., The Home Depot, Walmart (39 pounds), or GreenView.

Best Bang for the Buck

Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed

See It

What We Like

• Quick, tangible results for thickening grass and preventing weeds
• Highly concentrated and ample quantity
• Compatible with multiple grass varieties

What We Don’t Like

• Not suitable for warm-season grasses
• Contains 2,4-D

Our Ratings: Application 5/5; Feed Effectiveness 4.5/5; Weed Control 2.5/5; Value 4/5 

Product Specs 

• NPK ratio: 26-0-2
• Application: Spring
• Grass type: Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, ryegrass, centipede, Bahia, Bermuda, zoysia

Scotts is a well-known brand with an extensive range of lawn care products, including fertilizer and weed and grass killer. This product combines the strongest weed and feed for lawns available from Scotts. It’s supposed to kill common broadleaf weeds like dandelions and clover using WeedGrip technology while feeding the lawn for thicker grass. However, our testing revealed more feed than weed. Granted, the lawn we tested it on has a serious clover and dandelion problem. It’s possible the weed issues were too much even for this powerful weed killer. While we didn’t see a noticeable difference in weed health, they didn’t proliferate.

Scotts Turf Builder is one of the most popular and economical fertilizer and weed control combination products available. Although this weed and feed for Bermuda grass works on many common turf grasses, such as fescue, centipede, Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, Bahia, and zoysia, it’s not recommended for some warm-season grasses, such as St. Augustine, Dichondra, or carpet grass. As a synthetic product, it contains 2,4-D, which has the potential to damage human and environmental health.

Get the Scotts Turf Builder weed and feed at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot. 

Upgrade Pick

BioAdvanced 5-in-1 Weed & Feed

See It

What We Like

• Works on over 200 weed and grassy-weed varieties 
• Long-lasting formula feeds for up to 3 months
• Provides nutrients as well as heat and drought resistance
• Requires a minimal amount of mix to make a big difference in lawn health

What We Don’t Like

• Not suitable for new grass
• Contains 2,4-D

Our Ratings: Application 5/5; Feed Effectiveness 5/5; Weed Control 3.5/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs 

• NPK ratio: 22-0-4
• Application: Spring, early summer, fall
• Grass type: Bermuda, fescue, buffalo grass, seashore paspalum, zoysia

Taking care of grass while keeping away common weeds and crabgrass can be exhausting and time-consuming. But the BioAdvanced 5-in-1 weed and feed long-lasting formula greens grass and boosts growth so much that users might need to add an extra cutting to their weekly routine. This potent mix can act as a grass killer for crabgrass as well as broadleaf weeds like clover, dandelion, chickweed, and 200 other weed and grassy-weed varieties. It also strengthens established grass by fortifying roots. 

With a coverage area of over 4,000 square feet, this weed and feed mix resists the effects of heat and drought and is safe to use on cool-season grass types. It’s also a highly concentrated mix, requiring a minimal amount to be effective. 

In testing, it made a big difference in grass growth rate and health, making the grass noticeably brighter and taller. However, it didn’t do much to choke out the clover and weeds, though it showed some ability to prevent new weeds from sprouting. It also contains 2,4-D, a chemical that can potentially harm the environment or people.

Get the BioAdvanced weed and feed at Lowe’s, Walmart, or BioAdvanced.

Best Natural

Espoma Organic Weed Preventer

See It

What We Like

• Made from 100 percent corn gluten meal
• Can be used in any season and is compatible with all lawn types
• Can be used in flower beds or vegetable gardens

What We Don’t Like

• Only covers 1,250 square feet of lawn
• Doesn’t fertilize or control weeds as well as synthetic products

Our Ratings: Application 5/5; Feed Effectiveness 4/5; Weed Control 2.5/5; Value 3.5/5 

Product Specs 

• NPK ratio: 9-0-0
• Application: Spring
• Grass type: All grasses

Espoma’s Organic Weed Preventer is a natural solution to prevent lawn weeds without harming the environment. This product is made with 100 percent corn gluten meal, which is a byproduct of the corn-milling process that contains a high amount of nitrogen. When applied to your lawn, the nitrogen in the corn gluten meal provides a slow-release fertilizer to nourish the grass and make it more resistant to weeds. Additionally, the corn gluten meal acts as a natural pre-emergent herbicide that inhibits the growth of weed seeds by drying out their roots.

Unlike chemical-based weed preventers, Espoma’s Organic Weed Preventer is safe for pets, children, and the environment. It can safely be used on flower beds and in gardens. During testing, we found that much more of this mix is required to be as effective as synthetic fertilizers. The granules are also more noticeable on the lawn. However, we didn’t have to worry about children or pets walking on that lawn while the granules were still visible. We also appreciated that it can safely be used on flowers and vegetable gardens. 

This fertilizer/weed preventer did improve grass color and growth, but it didn’t perform as well as synthetic products. Espoma can help prevent pre-emergent weeds, but not those already growing.

Get the Espoma weed and feed at Ace Hardware or Walmart. 

Best Cool-Season

GreenView Fairway Formula Spring Weed and Feed

See It

What We Like

• Kills over 200 varieties of weeds
• Slow-release formula fertilizes for up to 12 weeks
• 36-pound bag treats up to 10,000 square feet of lawn
• Made a noticeable difference in the health and growth rate

What We Don’t Like

• Contains 2,4-D
• Didn’t kill existing weeds

Our Ratings: Application 5/5; Feed Effectiveness 5/5; Weed Control 2.5/5; Value 4.5/5 

Product Specs 

• NPK ratio: 24-0-6
• Application: Spring or fall
• Grass type: Kentucky bluegrass, Bermuda, buffalo grass, perennial ryegrass, fine and tall fescues, Bahia, centipede, zoysia, St. Augustine (except for Floratam)

GreenView Fairway Formula fertilizes lawns, targets over 200 lawn weed species, and prevents crabgrass from growing. It contains both slow-release and quick-release nutrients that feed a lawn for up to 12 weeks at a time. We like that the slow release reduces the number of times the fertilizer would need to be applied in a year. 

Due to the slow-releasing formula, GreenView Fairway Formula is best for use on established lawns with a healthy root system. Using it on new grass may result in burning and stunted growth. It can be used on warm- or cool-season grasses, but check the acceptable grass varieties as there are some exceptions. 

This mix noticeably boosted grass health during testing, with the grass growing at a faster rate and being greener than non-treated grass. It comes in a large bag and doesn’t require a lot of granules to be effective, making it an economical option for large lawns. However, we didn’t notice any difference in weed health, either killing them or preventing more from growing. 

Get the GreenView Fairway Formula weed and feed at Tractor Supply Co., Ace Hardware (18 pounds), The Home Depot, Walmart, or GreenView.

Best Warm-Season

Scotts Turf Builder Southern Triple Action

See It

What We Like

• Helps lawns withstand heat and drought
• Large coverage area of up to 8,000 square feet
• High-nitrogen formula

What We Don’t Like

• Not safe for people and pets until fully watered in and dry
• Contains Atrazine

Product Specs 

• NPK ratio: 29-0-10
• Application: Active growth periods
• Grass type: St. Augustine, Floratam, zoysia, centipede, carpet grass

We understand that warm-season grasses need a weed and feed that can withstand heat and drought conditions while building a thick green lawn. Scotts Turf Builder Southern Triple Action is a 3-in-1 weed and feed made for southern lawns. It’s safe for use on St. Augustine, zoysia, centipede, and carpet grasses, but it’s not recommended for use on Bermuda grass. This product also contains an insecticide that targets fire ants, mole crickets, sod webworms, fleas, armyworms, and more, and it keeps them away for up to 6 months. 

Please note that this product wasn’t tested due to the geographic location of the tester.

Get the Scotts Turf Builder Southern weed and feed at Amazon, Tractor Supply Co., The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Best Liquid

Scotts Liquid Turf Builder With Plus 2 Weed Control

See It

What We Like

• Suitable for fertilizing and weeding in any season on any grass type
• Easy to apply
• Affordable
• Noticeably killed weeds after a single application

What We Don’t Like

• Contains 2,4-D

Our Ratings: Application 4/5; Feed Effectiveness 3/5; Weed Control 2.5/5; Value 1.5/5 

Product Specs 

• NPK ratio: 25-0-2
• Application: Spring or fall
• Grass type: Bahia, Bermuda, centipede, zoysia, Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, ryegrass

Scotts Liquid Turf Builder weed spray lets users easily fertilize a lawn while killing dandelions and clover. One of this product’s best features is the ease of application. All that’s required is for the user to attach the applicator to a garden hose and apply this liquid weed and feed concentrate spray as needed. The process was easy during testing. The bottle has a clear strip so we could see how much we’d applied as we went along. That was helpful, as we applied it to a small area and didn’t want to use the entire bottle. 

Scotts weed and feed helps control buckhorn, chickweed, clover, dandelion, ground ivy, henbit, knotweed, and more. Scotts Liquid Turf Builder weed and feed spray can be used with almost any grass type during any season. When used as directed, it won’t burn the lawn and only requires one or two treatments per year. However, for those who don’t notice a change in weeds after one application, it can be applied again within 3 to 4 weeks. 

The brand says there should be a noticeable decline in weeds after a few days, but we didn’t notice weeds dying out until 3 weeks into testing. This was one of the few products that killed existing weeds. While it increased grass growth and deepened the green somewhat, it didn’t have the drastic health benefits for the grass as some of the other weed and feeds we tested.

Get the Scotts liquid weed and feed at Amazon, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot.

Or, DIY Your Own Weed and Feed

While there are many effective weed and feed products on the market, using commercial weed and feed can be expensive and harmful to the environment. A more natural solution is to make a DIY weed and feed using safe and effective ingredients. 

Mix 1 pound of corn gluten meal, 1 cup of Epsom salt, and 1 cup of dried lawn clippings to make your own weed and feed. Corn gluten meal acts as a natural pre-emergent herbicide that prevents weed seeds from germinating, while Epsom salt provides magnesium and sulfur to nourish the grass. Dried lawn clippings act as a slow-release fertilizer that provides nutrients for healthy lawn growth. By using this natural DIY weed and feed, users can maintain a beautiful and healthy lawn without harming the environment.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Weed and Feed

We created a numbered grid using marking paint and stakes, and one weed and feed fertilizer was applied in each square. The exception was the liquid weed and feed, which required application in a larger area; it was applied to a 100-square-foot area next to the grid. 

We calculated how much weed and feed to spread in each square based on the manufacturer’s instructions so that we didn’t over- or under-fertilize. The space was small enough that we spread the fertilizers by hand to prevent them from mixing. We then took pictures upon application and once a week for 4 weeks. Each weed and feed was scored according to a rubric based on how much product it required, how well it performed, and the ingredients. We also considered the eco-friendliness of each fertilizer, looking for nontoxic options and also pet-friendly weed and feed. 

What to Consider When Choosing Weed and Feed 

Not every weed and feed formula works on every type of grass or in every climate. You need to keep in mind the type of grass, the weed species you want to target, and fertilizer ingredients. Different weed and feeds are also designed for application during different seasons to provide nutrients the grass needs at specific stages of the growth cycle and to better target weeds when they’re at their most vulnerable. 

Weed and Feed Type

Weed and feed can be divided into several types. The first is between natural and chemical weed and feeds. Natural weed and feeds may be organic (but not always) and often contain cornmeal as a natural weed preventative and grass fertilizer. These weed and feeds do not contain synthetic chemicals. 

Chemical weed and feeds can be further divided into pre- and post-emergent weed and feeds. Pre-emergent weed and feeds contain chemicals that prevent weed seeds from germinating. They do not target already existing weeds. Post-emergent weed and feeds contain chemicals that target existing weeds while fertilizing grass. However, some products (like BioAdvanced 5-in-1 Weed & Feed, our upgrade pick), contain chemicals that affect both pre- and post-emergent weeds. 

Grass Type

The best weed and feed product for a lawn depends on the grass type. Grass species have different nutrient requirements, so not all products are safe for every species of grass. Using the wrong weed and feed can stunt growth, burn, or further damage the grass. In general, grass species are divided into two categories: warm season and cool season. The seasons do not refer to the time of year but the climate and average soil temperature range. 

• Warm-season turfgrasses grow best with average soil temperatures between 80 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Warm-season grasses thrive in the warmer climates of the southeastern and southwestern United States. They include Bahia, Bermuda, carpet grass, St. Augustine, and zoysia (Japanese lawn grass).
• Cool-season turfgrasses grow best with average soil temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Cool-season grasses thrive in the cooler climates of the Midwest and northern regions of the United States. Some cool-season grasses are Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and tall and hard fescue.

Selecting a weed and feed that’s compatible with the grass species will provide far better results.

NPK Ratio

To grow a lush lawn, your soil needs to have essential nutrients. Fertilizers temporarily add nutrients to the soil. Fertilizers typically list their nutrient ratios as an NPK formula. This denotation represents the percentage of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) in the product. 

• Nitrogen (N) helps the grass grow properly and develop a green color.
• Phosphorus (P) helps develop strong root systems.
• Potassium (K) protects plants from disease, drought, and cold. 

There are at least 11 states that ban phosphorus fertilizer use or sale. Luckily, many lawn weed and feed manufacturers have adapted to this and removed phosphorus from their products. Don’t worry—the weed and feed will still green and thicken the grass without the additional phosphorus.

Fertilizers can also contain secondary elements and micronutrients needed for healthy growth, such as sulfur, calcium, magnesium, boron, iron, molybdenum, zinc, copper, chloride, nickel, and manganese. To find out exactly what nutrients the lawn needs, conduct a soil test. Either purchase a test for home use or take a soil sample to the local cooperative extension testing office. 

Natural vs. Synthetic

There are distinct differences between natural and synthetic weed and feeds. 

Natural and organic weed and feed products contain plant-based or mineral ingredients that are safe for the environment and human health. They nourish the soil and plants to make them more resistant to weeds and prevent weed seed germination. 

At this time, natural alternatives aren’t as effective as their synthetic counterparts. However, some users of natural weed and feeds report that they notice healthier grass and fewer weeds after using the products for several seasons. In short, it takes patience and consistency to see gradually improved lawn health. It also takes more of the product to fertilize, which increases the overall cost, but it’s often worthwhile for the long-term health of people and the environment. 

On the other hand, chemical-based products contain synthetic herbicides that quickly kill weeds and improve grass health. However, they may contain ingredients that hurt beneficial plants, insects, and wildlife. Two of the most commonly used herbicides, 2,4-D and Atrazine, have been linked to numerous health and environmental problems. 2,4-D is a hormone-disrupting chemical that can potentially cause cancer, congenital disabilities, and developmental issues in children. Atrazine is a highly toxic herbicide that can contaminate drinking water, cause congenital disabilities, and harm wildlife. 

Be careful when applying these products in areas with a shallow water table, as they have the potential to contaminate the water supply. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and keep children and pets off the lawn until the product has dried or worked its way into the grass/soil. 

Application

Weed and feed comes in two forms: liquid and granular. Liquid forms are simple to apply and kill weeds faster than the more economical, though slower-acting, granular forms. Weed killer spray or liquid weed and feed is designed for small yards. Granular weed and feed covers more area, often 5,000 square feet or more, and is often available in 18-pound bags and larger. Granular versions offer a better value, but users do need to water their lawns after application for the product to penetrate the grass.

FAQs

If you want a pet-safe weed and feed or are curious to know what type is best for killing stubborn weeds, read on for answers to these and other commonly asked questions.

Meet the Tester

Stacey L. Nash has written about home and garden products, home design and decor, and general indoor and outdoor home improvement for 5+ years. She’s passionate about research and hands-on testing to find the products that add true value to homeownership and daily life. She lives on 12 heavily wooded acres, where she and her family put home and outdoor products to the test while avoiding bears and cougars. 

Additional research provided by Debbie Wolfe. 

The post The Best Weed and Feed Products for Fewer Weeds and Greener Grass, Tested appeared first on Bob Vila.

Despite attentive gardening practices, unwanted weeds can muscle in quickly, making organic weed killers a necessary tool for removing pesky plants without posing risks to food production or the environment. While these useful lawn-care products can help provide flowers and vegetables with the space they need to produce blossoms and edibles, it can be difficult to know which organic herbicides for weeds actually work. To help you in your search, we researched dozens of popular options and reached out to a lawn care and gardening expert for their experience-based insights.

As a result of our efforts, we found eight organic weed killers we feel confident recommending. Of those, our favorite is the Green Gobbler 20% Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer, a formula that’s easy to apply, works quickly, and is certified for organic use. Rather than spraying your garden with conventional herbicides full of toxic chemicals that do more harm than good, this and the rest of the best organic weed killers we selected use natural ingredients that work while keeping food, kids, and pets safe.

1. BEST OVERALL: Green Gobbler 20% Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Natural Armor 30% Home & Garden Vinegar
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3. BEST SPRAY: Natria Grass & Weed Control With Root Kill
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4. BEST CONCENTRATE: Bonide Captain Jack’s Deadweed Brew Concentrate
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5. BEST SPOT TREATMENT: Sunday Weed Warrior
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6. BEST MULTIPURPOSE: Earthborn Elements Pure Borax Powder
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7. BEST FOR GRAVEL: Ortho GroundClear Weed & Grass Killer
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8. ALSO CONSIDER: Eco Living Solutions Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer
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Before You Buy an Organic Weed Killer

The best organic weed killers are a one-step way to remove unwanted weeds like dandelions, poison ivy, and more. But they may not give you the results you’re after since they’re typically nonselective, meaning they can kill all the plants in vegetable gardens, flower beds, and grassy areas in addition to weeds. More traditional methods, such as pulling weeds by hand or using a weeding tool, may provide better weed control for lawns and spaces where you want more control over which plants you eradicate.

Organic Weed Killer Comparison Chart

Our Top Picks

The following organic weed killers made our list because they’re potent enough to kill weeds naturally without the use of harmful chemicals that can contaminate fruits and vegetables or leave environmentally damaging residues behind. Choosing the best organic weed killer from these options depends on individual needs and weed types needing removal.

Best Overall

Green Gobbler 20% Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer

See It

What We Like

• Organic Material Review Institute (OMRI)-listed for organic use
• Spray application makes it easier to be precise
• Starts working within 24 hours of application 

What We Don’t Like

• May not totally eliminate particularly stubborn weeds

Specs

• Type: Spray
• Size: 1 gallon; other sizes available 
• Formula: Nonselective; acetic acid

Crabgrass, dandelions, thistles, and other weeds are history with just a spritz of OMRI-listed Green Gobbler vinegar weed and grass killer. Derived from corn, this natural acetic acid herbicide is nonselective, meaning it kills all vegetation it’s applied to with a turnaround time of 24 hours. The easy-to-use spray attachment that comes with the gallon bottle makes application a cinch, and larger quantities are available without the extra nozzle for use as refills.

Green Gobbler is especially beneficial along fence lines, around patios and pool areas, and in mulched flower beds where common weeds and grasses tend to sprout most. Just use care not to spray it on desirable plantings because they, too, will die.

Get the Green Gobbler organic weed killer at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Green Gobbler. 

Best Bang for the Buck

Natural Armor 30% Home & Garden Vinegar

See It

What We Like

• 6 times more potent than comparable formulas 
• Comes with an attachable trigger sprayer
• Ideal for large areas needing extensive weed control 

What We Don’t Like

• Sprayer clogs sometimes

Specs

• Type: Spray
• Size: 1 gallon; other sizes available
• Formula: Nonselective; acetic acid

To control weeds without spending a lot of cash, consider this Natural Armor concentrate. It’s available in an economical 1-gallon jug (as well as other sizes), comes at an attractive price, and contains vinegar that’s six times more potent than the household variety. This pet-safe weed killer can be applied using the attachable trigger sprayer, poured into a smaller spray bottle, or used with a pump-type garden sprayer. 

Natural Armor’s industrial-strength organic weed killer contains only pure and natural ingredients that are environmentally safe. It’s a nonselective vegetation killer that’s well suited for lawn edging and removing weeds from fence lines, between sidewalk cracks, and among patio pavers. This vinegar weed killer spray can also be used to clean mossy stone garden statues and outdoor ornaments.

Get the Natural Armor organic weed killer at Amazon or Natural Armor.

Best Spray

Natria Grass & Weed Control With Root Kill Herbicide

See It

What We Like

• Ready-to-use formula 
• Ideal for cracks in pavement, edging, and more 
• Precise spray applicator enables use as a weed killer for lawns

What We Don’t Like

• Requires a relatively thick coating to work

Specs

• Type: Spray
• Size: 24 ounces; other sizes available
• Formula: Nonselective; ammoniated soap

No need to mix or pour this Natria weed remover spray into another container—it comes in its own spray bottle and comes ready to apply. Unlike our two top picks, this option uses ammoniated soap of fatty acids, a natural ingredient that penetrates weed foliage to destroy the plant. Like our other recommendations, however, it’s also nonselective, so it shouldn’t be applied on a windy day if desirable plants are nearby. 

For best results, Natria recommends you apply enough of this organic product to fully saturate the weed’s foliage. The herbicide will then travel through the foliage and stems to the roots, destroying the weed completely and preventing regrowth. Though it’s a strong weed killer, Natria won’t contaminate soil, meaning gardeners can safely sow seeds 5 days after use.

Get the Natria organic weed killer (various sizes) at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Ace Hardware.

Best Concentrate

Bonide Captain Jack’s Deadweed Brew Concentrate

See It

What We Like

• Withers broadleaf or grassy weeds within hours
• 32-ounce concentrate makes more than 8 gallons of product
• Waterproof once dried 

What We Don’t Like

• Requires dilution and a container for application

Specs

• Type: Liquid concentrate
• Size: 32 ounces; other sizes available
• Formula: Nonselective; caprylic acid and capric acid

When it comes to making weed killers, Bonide has an excellent reputation, and this concentrate is no exception. It’s available in a couple of sizes, and the 32-ounce container of this organic weed killer is enough for over 8 gallons of diluted product. It’s easy to apply using a standard handheld or backpack sprayer, and once it dries, it’s waterproof for extended effectiveness. 

The chemical-conscious consumer can have peace of mind from this product as it is made with coconut and palm kernel oils, both capable of killing grassy and broadleaf weeds, moss, and algae. It is also suitable for applying to patios, walkways, driveways, fences, foundations, and more in temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit. However, given that it is a nonselective option, it may not be safe for use directly on gardens or beloved plants. But, it can be used at a safe distance around these areas to kill harmful weeds and grasses. 

What our tester says: “We tried Deadweed Brew as part of our best weed killer tests by broadcasting it over a row of weeds growing between tire tracks on a gravel driveway. Within 4 hours, the weed zone had turned a pale greenish brown, and by the next morning, all the weeds were completely dead.”—Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer 

Get the Bonide organic weed killer at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Bonide.

Best Spot Treatment

Sunday Weed Warrior

See It

What We Like

• Easy to apply herbicidal soap kills grassy weeds
• Results start to appear in just 20 minutes
• OMRI-listed for safe organic use 

What We Don’t Like

• May require periodic reapplication

Specs

• Type: Spray
• Size: Two 32-ounce bottles; other sizes available
• Formula: Nonselective; ammoniated soap 

Sunday’s Weed Warrior is an herbicidal soap made from fatty acids designed to tackle grassy weeds, mosses, and algae. It works by breaking down the waxy coating that protects plants, leading to rapid dehydration and death. After application, you should start seeing visible results in about 20 minutes. 

As a nonselective killer, this isn’t a good weed killer for lawns since it will kill your grass, too. However, it’s quite effective as a spot treatment along sidewalks, next to flower beds, and near concrete patios via precise application using the spray bottle. Those needing to treat larger areas will be pleased to know there are refill sizes available, including a gallon jug that has a convenient sprayer wand. 

What our tester says: “The fact that I was so impressed with the Weed Warrior spot treatment that I bought the concentrated pouches to weed large areas is a testament to the product’s effectiveness.”—Daryna Tobey, Product Reviews tester and writer

Read our full review: Sunday Lawn Care Review 

Get the Sunday organic weed killer (various sizes) at Amazon, The Home Depot, Walmart, or Sunday.

Best Multipurpose

Earthborn Elements Pure Borax Powder

See It

What We Like

• Can be mixed to varying strengths for different needs
• Durable, resealable container is easy to store safely
• Great for flower beds, driveways, and stepping stones 

What We Don’t Like

• Finding the right strength may require some tinkering

Specs

• Type: Powder
• Size: 1 gallon; other sizes available 
• Formula: Nonselective; sodium borate

Multipurpose borax can kill weeds, control unwanted insects, and boost laundry detergent—and it’s the active ingredient in Earthborn Elements borax powder. Borax, short for “sodium borate,” is a natural mineral mined in desert regions, including California’s Death Valley. 

To use, mix with water at a ratio of 10 ounces of borax to ½ cup of hot water, stirring until the powder dissolves. Next, further dilute the solution by pouring it into 2½ gallons of water, then spray it directly on weeds with a spray bottle or pump-type garden sprayer. Like many other natural weed killers, borax is nonselective, so you’ll want to take care to spray weeds only on a calm day to protect desirable plants. 

Get the Earthborn Elements organic weed killer at Amazon or Earthborn Elements.

Best for Gravel

Ortho GroundClear Weed & Grass Killer

See It

What We Like

• Listed by OMRI for safe organic use
• Results appear in about 15 minutes
• Battery-powered sprayer covers gravel pads quickly

What We Don’t Like

• Sprayer tube sometimes becomes disconnected

Specs

• Type: Comfort wand spray
• Size: 1 gallon; other sizes available
• Formula: Nonselective; ammonium nonanoate

Though we’ve yet to test it as a weed killer for gravel, we can hardly wait to unleash Ortho GroundClear’s battery-powered sprayer on our weed-prone gravel parking pad. Since this gravel area sits somewhat close to a drainage ditch, we’re careful about how we care for it, so the fact that this weed and grass killer is OMRI-certified is ideal. We also appreciate that the sprayer wand has adjustable settings to enable more precise application in mulched garden beds and alongside landscaped spaces. 

Once applied, GroundClear gets to work, destroying plants’ cell membranes to cause dehydration and death in about 15 minutes. Though larger and more stubborn weeds may take a bit longer to die, this rainproof spray provides lasting effects that help prevent unwanted plants from coming back. 

Get the Ortho organic weed killer (various sizes) at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, Walmart, or Ortho.

Also Consider

Eco Living Solutions Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer

See It

What We Like

• Listed by OMRI for safe organic use
• Results appear in about 15 minutes
• Battery-powered sprayer covers gravel pads quickly

What We Don’t Like

• Sprayer tube sometimes becomes disconnected

Specs

• Type: Comfort wand spray
• Size: 1 gallon; other sizes available
• Formula: Nonselective; ammonium nonanoate

The Eco Living Solutions vinegar weed and grass killer contains high-strength vinegar for effective natural foliage eradication. It comes ready to use and should be sprayed full strength on weeds until foliage is saturated. It’s nonselective, so take care not to let overspray get on desirable plantings.

For those looking to get rid of grass, this product also works as an organic weed killer for lawns., making it an eco-friendly way to transition to xeriscape landscaping. Safe for honey bees, soil, and groundwater, it contains no harmful or toxic ingredients and can be applied to weeds in vegetable gardens or around fruiting vines. One gallon of this ready-to-use weed killer treats 1,000 square feet, and it also comes in a larger size to cover a greater area. Results start to show in as little as 24 hours, and no retreating is necessary.

Get the Eco Garden Pro organic weed killer at Amazon or Eco Living Solutions.

Or, DIY Your Own Organic Weed Killer 

If you prefer the DIY approach to killing weeds, you can make a weed killer using basic essentials you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s Bob Vila’s favorite nonherbicide weed killer recipe.

In a large bowl, combine: 

• 1 gallon of white household vinegar 
• 1 cup of salt 
• 1 tablespoon of dish soap 

After combining the ingredients, pour the DIY weed killer into a spray bottle or sprayer and apply. This homemade weed killer recipe will create a full gallon of foolproof organic weed killer that can be applied to large or small patches of weeds. 

If possible, try to apply this weirdly effective weeding solution when it is sunny to help dry out and shrivel the weeds. The combination of the weed killer and the sun will attack the weeds’ root systems and speed up the process.

For other ways to kill weeds without buying a weed killer, check out this list of homemade weed killer pros and cons. It details everything we like and don’t about popular DIY weed removal tactics. 

Our Verdict

Our top pick, the Green Gobbler 20% Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer, is less toxic than traditional formulas, while the Earthborn Elements Pure Borax Powder is a great multipurpose choice. Popular lawn and garden options from Roundup and Ortho weren’t listed because they didn’t meet our sustainability guidelines—each contains ingredients like glyphosate 2,4D that have harmful environmental effects.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose the Best Organic Weed Killers

Our list of recommendations is the result of an in-depth exploration of organic weed killers, which are more environmentally friendly products for killing weeds than conventional herbicides. It includes picks for specific categories so shoppers have more targeted options for their needs as well as products that come in different sizes with varying application methods for both expansive coverage and occasional spot treatment. 

Several of our recommendations are vinegar solutions of varying concentrations because vinegar kills weeds effectively without causing environmental harm. Depending on the specific weed problem, products with either 20 percent or 30 percent acetic acid will be appropriate.

What to Consider When Choosing an Organic Weed Killer

Before buying a weed killer, shoppers will want to investigate ingredients and read labels to determine whether the product will kill only specific weeds or affect all vegetation. It’s also a good idea to be mindful of the difference between organic herbicides that kill existing weeds and those that stop weed seeds from sprouting.

Pre-Emergent vs. Post-Emergent

Like chemical weed killers, organic herbicides are available in two types: pre-emergent and post-emergent. Herbicides that are pre-emergent destroy seeds or prevent them from sprouting, while the post-emergent kind kills or inhibits weeds that have already sprouted and are growing.

The difference between the two is crucial because once a pre-emergent product is sprayed on the soil, it will prevent all seeds from sprouting there—whether those of common weeds, plants you never knew were weeds, or desirable plants and flowers. While this type of spray will inhibit weed growth alongside fence lines, driveways, and patios, if any of it lands near a plot of soil intended for flowers or a vegetable garden, it’s unlikely that any seeds planted there will sprout.

Selective vs. Nonselective

A selective weed killer will destroy only specific types of weeds but not others. For example, organic herbicides developed for lawns likely target broadleaf weeds, such as chickweed and clover, but they won’t damage turf-type grasses like Bermuda grass. 

Nonselective weed killers will kill all vegetation—both weeds and desirable plants—so gardeners should use them with caution. If you’re trying to get rid of dandelions that have spread throughout your lawn, remember that spraying or broadcasting a nonselective weed killer will kill the grass along with the weeds. 

When it comes to natural herbicides, users have very few selective products to choose from; the majority are nonselective and designed to kill most forms of vegetation. They can be used between sidewalk cracks or patio pavers or to create fence lines but shouldn’t be used near desirable plants and flowers, especially on windy days.

Ingredients

True to form, organic weed killers will not have toxic ingredients. Shoppers looking for lawn-care items to start or maintain a garden may be surprised to find several household ingredients, such as vinegar, salt, and corn, present in some organic weed killers. Other beneficial ingredients include soaps and essential oils, such as cinnamon or clove. 

Lesser-known ingredients, like citric acid, caprylic acid (a coconut oil derivative), and D-limonene (derived from citrus fruits), also feature prominently in many organic weed killers. For added benefits, manufacturers may combine two or more of the above ingredients to control specific types of weeds.

Form

Natural weed-killing products are available in various forms, with some better suited to specific types of applications. 

• Spray: Easy to use and offering uniform coverage, most sprays are designed for direct application to the weed’s foliage. Spraying should be avoided on windy days to avoid harming desirable plants.
• Liquid concentrate: For those with large crops or heavy weed infestation, a liquid concentrate may be best. It can be diluted with water and easily applied over large areas with a pump-type garden sprayer.
• Powder: Meant for broadcasting over specific areas, powder herbicides can also get carried by the wind and inadvertently kill nearby plants.
• Salts: Products containing salt will kill plants, so be careful when using them. Salt makes soil infertile, and it can take years to leach it out. Salt-based nontoxic weed killers are often best for patio pavers or sidewalk joints rather than flower beds.

FAQs

If you’re switching from a traditional weed killer to an organic type, you may still have questions. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about organic weed killers.

The post 8 Organic Weed Killers That Are Safe for Organic Gardening and the Environment appeared first on Bob Vila.

Even the greenest of thumbs can struggle with common lawn issues like patches, snow mold, and pests. As an antidote to wandering a store searching for the right products and hoping that you chose correctly, lawn care subscriptions offer everything for proper yard maintenance — delivered right to your door.

Now, that convenient service, more synonymous with large chains, is available through a local hardware store. Known for providing personalized advice on home and lawn maintenance to its in-store customers, the venerable lawn and garden retailer Ace Hardware is now debuting a lawn care subscription called Ace YardRx—a natural next step on the journey to help even more homeowners work on their landscape.“We’re excited to launch Ace YardRx, a new subscription service that delivers yard care directly to our neighbors’ homes,” said Kim Lefko, Chief Marketing Officer at Ace Hardware.

How Does Ace YardRx Work?

Similar to other lawn care subscription services, the customized lawn care plan is location-based and delivered to customers throughout the growing season—spring, summer, and fall. Each box includes seasonal treatments for lawn growth and nourishment, weed prevention, and pest problems, as well as recommended application dates. Prices are given upfront along with estimated delivery dates for each box. Customers can also pick up subscription boxes in store or curbside.

To get a customized lawn care plan, customers simply create an account and enter their home address. Ace YardRx will use data such as climate, property size, and seasonal growth habits to develop a lawn care plan. Customers can further identify specific issues including insects, diseases, and fungi and filter by product preferences such as brand names, natural ingredients, or concentrates.

Curated Solutions From Local Experts 

Local Ace “YardRx-perts” identify the right products for specific regions and issues based on the data you submit. All products ship from local Ace Hardware stores, making pricing competitive and shipping free. Plus in-store experts are available to help troubleshoot or further tailor the products to specific growing zones.

Ace YardRx Takes the Guesswork Out of Lawn Care 

Available nationwide, Ace YardRx offers homeowners a lawn care prescription to treat any lawn care problems and get a fast track to a healthy, lush lawn. Simply follow each product’s recommendations for proper application. This program handles everything besides applying the products—or mowing the lawn. For that, a robot mower may be in order.

The post Ace Is the Place—For a New Lawn Care Subscription Service appeared first on Bob Vila.

Along with mowing and watering, applying organic lawn fertilizers is an important part of creating a lush, healthy lawn. But while keeping your grass the right height and ensuring it gets enough to drink are relatively simple, choosing the proper natural lawn fertilizer is much more complicated. Factors like soil acidity, grass type, and time of year necessitate being somewhat selective about the lawn care products you choose.

To aid you in your efforts, we reached out to a lawn care expert for advice and researched dozens of good fertilizers before choosing the versatile and nonburning The Andersons Innova 7-1-2 Organic Fertilizer as our top pick. Still, depending on the season or specific species of grass you have, another pick might be more appropriate. Read on for our reviews of some of the best organic lawn fertilizers and helpful tips for selecting the right one.

1. BEST OVERALL: The Andersons Innova 7-1-2 Organic Fertilizer 
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Jonathan Green Organic Lawn Food
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3. BEST FOR P & K DEFICIENCY: Scotts Natural Lawn Food
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4. BEST FOR N DEFICIENCY: Urban Farm Fertilizers 13-1-2 Liquid Lawn Fertilizer
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5. BEST WITH NO PHOSPHORUS: Espoma Organic Lawn Food Spring Lawn Booster
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6. BEST FOR DARK-GREEN LAWN: Milorganite 6-4-0 Slow-Release Nitrogen Fertilizer
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7. BEST FOR FALL: Espoma Organic Lawn Food Fall Winterizer
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8. BEST ORGANIC LIQUID: GS Plant Foods Organic Liquid Kelp Seaweed Fertilizer
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Before You Buy Organic Lawn Fertilizer

Choosing the best organic grass fertilizer requires an understanding of the lawn’s current condition. Is it generally healthy and simply needs regular feeding? Or does it display a nutrient deficiency of some kind? The type of grass will also determine which fertilizer to use. For example, fertilizers for St. Augustine grass will deliver different levels of nutrients than those for Bermuda grass. 

Before buying and applying fertilizer, it’s smart to perform a soil test to identify your soil’s pH and nutrient content. These results will help you determine which organic natural fertilizer to apply as part of your personal DIY lawn-care program. 

Organic Lawn Fertilizers Comparison Chart

Our Top Picks

Each organic lawn treatment on our list of top picks is made from quality ingredients and provides essential nutrients for growing new grass or helping an existing lawn thrive. 

Best Overall

The Andersons Innova 7-1-2 Organic Fertilizer

See It

What We Like

• Minimal dust granules
• Suitable for many types of grass
• Formula won’t cause fertilizer burn

What We Don’t Like

• Only comes in 40-pound bags

Specs 

• NPK ratio: 7-1-2
• Quantity: 40 pounds
• Coverage: 5,600 square feet

The Andersons Innova organic fertilizer is a slow-release formula that earned our top spot for its versatile 7-1-2 NPK ratio and amino acids that provide extended feeding without burning. It supplies a high percentage of highly digestible carbon to support beneficial soil microbes for a healthier growing environment. The OMRI (Organic Materials Review Institute)-listed fertilizer contains no biosolids, manure, composted waste products, or animal parts, making it an especially eco-friendly option. We also appreciate how little dust is produced during application, minimizing respiratory irritation that causes coughing and sneezing. 

But more than our own comfort, we love this formula for what it does for our lawn. Even with accidental overapplication, it doesn’t cause turf burn and is safe to use adjacent to sensitive waterways and around kids and pets. Though this is an excellent all-around fertilizer for lawn grass, it only comes in 40-pound bags that cover up to 5,600 square feet each, which might be excessive for some.

Get The Andersons organic lawn fertilizer at Amazon. 

Best Bang for the Buck

Jonathan Green Organic Lawn Food

See It

What We Like

• Child- and pet-friendly lawn fertilizer
• Grass treatments last up to 10 weeks
• Plant- and animal-derived ingredients for added versatility

What We Don’t Like

• Not suitable for lawns requiring potassium

Specs 

• NPK ratio: 10-0-1 
• Quantity: 17 or 51 pounds
• Coverage: 5,000 or 15,000 square feet

Jonathan Green’s organic lawn care fertilizer food is a granular fertilizer made with a complex of plant and animal proteins, including feather meal, soybean meal, molasses, and wheat middlings. The 10-0-1 NPK slow-release formula delivers a boost of nitrogen plus iron to grow dark green grass for up to 10 weeks. 

One of the things we like best about this budget-friendly pick is its safety profile. Unlike synthetic fertilizers, this product poses no risk of burning the grass, even if overapplied. Kids and pets can play on it immediately, and it can be used for both cold- and warm-season grasses and applied during spring, summer, or fall. The Jonathan Green fertilizer comes in two sizes: a 17-pound bag for up to 5,000 square feet of coverage and a 51-pound bag that feeds up to 15,000 square feet of lawn.

Get the Jonathan Green organic lawn fertilizer at Amazon, Walmart, or Johnathan Green. 

Best for P & K Deficiency

Scotts Natural Lawn Food

See It

What We Like

• Gentle enough for freshly seeded or sodded grass
• OMRI-listed and comes from natural sources
• Lawn is safe immediately after application

What We Don’t Like

• Relatively limited coverage area

Specs 

• NPK ratio: 11-2-2
• Quantity: 29.1 pounds
• Coverage: 4,000 square feet

New and struggling lawns sometimes require a bit more phosphorus and potassium to boost root development and ensure drought tolerance, and with its 11-2-2 NPK content, the Scotts natural lawn food offers both. Made from natural sources like bone meal, blood meal, and meat meal, the formula is excellent for maintaining lawns across seasons and is suitable for all grass types, including zoysia grass. 

The manufacturer recommends feeding up to four times through the growing season at 6- to 8-week intervals, and you should start seeing results within those first few weeks. Since the 29.1-pound bag only covers 4,000 square feet, you’ll probably need a few packages to make it through the year.

Get the Scotts organic lawn fertilizer at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Scotts.

Best for N Deficiency

Urban Farm Fertilizers 13-1-2 Liquid Lawn Fertilizer

See It

What We Like

• Concentrated formula covers up to 60,000 square feet
• Iron helps produce deep green grass
• Includes animal- and plant-based ingredients

What We Don’t Like

• Recommended application frequency is 2 to 3 times per month

Specs 

• NPK ratio: 13-1-2 
• Quantity: 1 gallon (makes 256 gallons)
• Coverage: Up to 60,000 square feet

This super-concentrated liquid lawn fertilizer from Urban Farm Fertilizers boasts 13 percent nitrogen plus iron to help the grass grow and turn deep green at the beginning of spring. This innovative option goes beyond traditional picks by incorporating a blend of hydroponic-grade nutrients, mycorrhizae, humic acid, bacteria, enzymes, and minerals. Its 13-1- NPK content promotes rapid greening and growth for nutrient-deficient lawns. 

The ingredients in this combination organic fertilizer come from bat guano, sea kelp, worm casings, and more, creating a concentrated formula that makes up 256 gallons of fertilizer to feed up to 60,000 square feet. However, the manufacturer does recommend you apply it two to three times each month, so you may end up needing more than one bottle to make it through the season. For best results, apply in the evening using a boom sprayer or hose. Dilution instructions for each option are on the back of the bottle.

Get the Urban Farm Fertilizers organic lawn fertilizer at Amazon, Walmart, or The Urban Farm. 

Best with No Phosphorus

Espoma Organic Lawn Food Spring Lawn Booster

See It

What We Like

• Includes calcium and sulfur for improved grass health
• Promotes disease resistance
• Made from feather meal, pasteurized poultry manure, and gypsum

What We Don’t Like

• Not suitable for lawns requiring potassium or phosphorus

Specs 

• NPK ratio: 8-0-0
• Quantity: 30 pounds
• Coverage: 5,000 square feet

This lawn fertilizer for spring uses a moderate dose of slow-release nitrogen and a boost of calcium for deep greening and healthy growth with limited nutrient application. It has an NPK ratio of 8-0-0, 3 percent calcium, and 1 percent sulfur, and is made from feather meal, pasteurized poultry manure, and gypsum. Available in 30-pound bags, it can feed up to 5,000 square feet of lawn.

We love this pick for its ability to provide a sustained supply of nitrogen over time. This allows it to encourage the growth of thicker, greener grass and reduces the frequency of mowing required. It also won’t cause turf burn and is safe for people and pets. You can apply it to newly seeded and sodded areas in early spring to get a good crop of green grass growing. 

Get the Espoma spring organic lawn fertilizer at Amazon or Walmart.

Best for Dark-Green Lawn

Milorganite 6-4-0 Slow-Release Nitrogen Fertilizer

See It

What We Like

• Fortified with iron for a dark green lawn
• Feeds for up to 10 weeks
• Helps establish a healthy room system 

What We Don’t Like

• Limited coverage area of 2,500 square feet

Specs 

• NPK ratio: 6-4-0 
• Quantity: 36 pounds
• Coverage: 2,500 square feet

In the early 1900s, the City of Milwaukee began reclaiming its wastewater on a massive scale and using it to make for-profit products. The name Milorganite comes from Milwaukee organic Nitrogen (nite), and the brand’s 6-4-0 slow-release nitrogen granular has had a consistent spot in the sheds of many home and professional landscapers throughout the many decades since its creation. Made from nutrient-rich heat-dried microbes that have digested the organic matter in wastewater, the resulting product is 85 percent organic matter. It encourages deep root development and can create healthy grass growth for up to 10 weeks after application. 

In addition to nitrogen and phosphorus, this fertilizer contains 2.5 percent iron to encourage vibrantly green grass. As one of the most versatile picks on our list, it also makes a great garden fertilizer safe for flowers, vegetables, shrubs, and trees. As much as we love this pick and the story behind it, a 36-pound bag only feeds 2,500 square feet, so you’ll probably want to buy more than one bag. 

Get the Milorganite organic lawn fertilizer at Amazon, Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, Walmart, or Target. 

Best for Fall

Espoma Organic Lawn Food Fall Winterizer

See It

What We Like

• Specifically formulated for winterizing lawns
• Works well as a Bermuda grass fertilizer 
• Nonburning, even if overapplied

What We Don’t Like

• Not good for lawns needing phosphorus

Specs 

• NPK ratio: 8-0-5 
• Quantity: 30 pounds
• Coverage: 5,000 square feet

Looking for a way to prepare a lawn for a harsh winter and promote healthy spring growth? This 8-0-5 fertilizer from Espoma is designed to be used between September and November. It has extra potassium that helps lawns recover from summer stress while enhancing winter hardiness. 

This slow-release formula is made from a blend of high-quality natural and organic ingredients, ensuring consistency and quality in every application. It’s nonburning, guaranteeing overfertilization isn’t an issue, and it’s suitable for all lawn types, including those that have recently been seeded or sodded. It is, however, best to apply this product to a dry lawn that has recently been mowed. A 30-pound bag will feed up to 5,000 feet. 

Get the Espoma fall organic lawn fertilizer at Amazon or Walmart. 

Best Organic Liquid

GS Plant Foods Organic Liquid Kelp Seaweed Fertilizer

See It

What We Like

• OMRI-listed for organic food production
• Helps prevent having a drought-stressed lawn
• Works with other fertilizers for enhanced performance

What We Don’t Like

• Smell can be offputting, especially if used indoors

Specs 

• NPK ratio: 0.3-0-0.6
• Quantity: 1, 5, 55, or 275 gallon(s)
• Coverage: 1,000 square feet per gallon

This organic kelp fertilizer from GS Plant Foods is dependent on one hero ingredient: Ascophyllum nodosum extract. Touted as one of nature’s miracle plant foods, the seaweed fortifies plants of all types, making it suitable for everything from lawns to flower beds, vegetable gardens, and houseplants. So long as its strong smell doesn’t bother you, you can even use it to extend the life of cut flowers. 

The product comes in a 1-gallon bottle and is designed to be diluted with water at a ratio of 1 ounce of fertilizer to 1 gallon of water. The NPK ratio is 0.3-0-0.6, so nutrient levels are low, allowing this product to be combined with other types of fertilizers if desired. It also contains trace amounts of sulfur, magnesium, calcium, sodium, boron, iron, manganese, copper, zinc, and other carbohydrates and should be applied when temperatures are low to encourage nutrient uptake. 

Get the GS Plant Foods organic lawn fertilizer at Amazon or GS Plant Foods.

Or, DIY Your Own Organic Lawn Fertilizer

While there are plenty of commercially produced organic lawn fertilizers on the market, it’s also possible to make a homemade fertilizer for lawns that delivers excellent results. A good fertilizer for grass should be about 50 percent organic matter and plant-based material, such as composted manure, garden clippings, decomposed leaves, sphagnum peat moss, sawdust, wood chips, or even seaweed. The other half of the fertilizer blend should contain slow-release sources of nitrogen such as blood meal, fish meal, cottonseed meal, feather meal, kelp meal, or soybean meal. 

Once you have gathered the necessary materials for the homemade lawn fertilizer mix, start blending them in equal parts in a bucket or large container. Make sure to mix them thoroughly so it’s easy to apply everything evenly on your lawn. 

Jump to Our Top Picks

Our Verdict

We love The Andersons Innova 7-1-2 Organic Fertilizer for its versatility and quality organic formula. Other popular lawn fertilizers, such as Scotts Turf Builder, Pennington UltraGreen Weed & Feed, and Spectracide Weed & Feed, are effective but do not meet our sustainability guidelines. We cannot recommend them in our list of the best organic lawn fertilizers due to their potentially harmful ingredients and negative impact on the environment. 

How We Chose the Best Organic Lawn Fertilizers

We created this guide by drawing on our extensive experience covering home and garden products and comprehensive product research. We considered dozens of fertilizer options, primarily focusing on the following considerations before making our recommendations:

• Organic vs. inorganic: We only considered organic fertilizers for this guide since they are capable of top-notch performance without negative environmental impact. 
• NPK ratio: Since different lawns have different macronutrient needs, we included formulations with various NPK (nitrogen/phosphorus/potassium) ratios.
• Value: Plant fertilizers vary widely in type and quantity. We ensured that each recommended product offered excellent value, regardless of the format. 

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Organic Lawn Fertilizer

When choosing between the best organic lawn fertilizers on our list, consider type, ease of application, and the desired effect.

Type

Organic fertilizer ingredients fall into three types: animal-based, plant-based, and mineral-based. However, most products contain a combination of these types to deliver the best possible balance of major and minor nutrients. Some products may only offer a single ingredient or a blend of ingredients from a single type. 

Animal-based fertilizers include blood meal, bone meal, feather meal, fish meal, and various manures. These products slowly break down over time, providing lawns and garden plants with season-long benefits.

Plant-based fertilizer ingredients include alfalfa meal, cottonseed meal, kelp meal, soybean meal, and compost. Soil microbes convert these materials into plant food much more quickly than animal products. They provide an immediate impact, often within days or weeks after application.

Mineral-based fertilizer ingredients like sulfur, dolomitic limestone, gypsum, greensand, and rock phosphate are naturally occurring concentrated forms of plant-food elements. They boost trace nutrient levels and eliminate deficiencies in the soil.

Liquid vs. Granular

Organic fertilizers, both liquid and granular, work with the naturally occurring microbes in the soil. When the fertilizer is applied to the soil, bacteria and fungi consume the natural ingredients and release the nutrients at a measured rate and in a form that is readily available to plants. 

The difference between liquid and dry organic fertilizers is in the rate at which the soil consumes them. Dry granular formulations, which are applied using a fertilizer spreader, break down slowly and feed lawns over weeks or months. Liquid organic fertilizers deliver a quick boost of nutrients and work faster due to their minute particle size and embedded moisture. 

NPK Ratio 

Three elements make up the major nutrients that lawns and plants need for lush, green growth: 

• Nitrogen (N) promotes green color and leafy growth.
• Phosphorus (P) stimulates deep root development. 
• Potassium (K) boosts vigor and disease resistance.

Nitrogen is quite volatile. The amount not used by the lawn dissipates and must be regularly replenished. Phosphorus and potassium persist in the soil, so they are not required in such large quantities. On average, organic lawn fertilizer offers two to three times or more N compared to how much P and K are in the mix.

NPK ratios on fertilizer labels show the amount of each element present in the product as a percentage of the total weight, always in the order N-P-K. For instance, a product with a ratio of 11-2-2 contains 11 percent N, 2 percent P, and 2 percent K. Other ingredients and any additional nutrients will also be listed on the label.

Desired Effect

After a soil test (see the tips for using organic lawn fertilizer section below), it’s essential to factor the condition of the lawn into the fertilizer choice. Phosphorus is already sufficiently present in the soil in many areas. If your soil test shows levels are already high enough, you can help prevent pollution by not adding more. 

If the grass is robust with dense foliage and deep green color, choose a fertilizer with a moderate to high amount of nitrogen (10 percent or greater) and little to no phosphorus and potassium. As the lawn approaches the dormant season in late summer and fall, apply fertilizer with a lower nitrogen ratio and slightly more potassium. 

If your lawn is yellow or remains dull even when all three major nutrients are properly supplied, your grass may be deficient in iron. For a deeper green, choose a lawn fertilizer with supplemental iron.

Tips for Using Organic Lawn Fertilizer

There’s more to an effective organic lawn fertility program than simply applying fertilizer on a timed schedule. Don’t waste time and money by blindly applying fertilizer. First, test the soil, either with an over-the-counter testing kit from a local garden center or by sending a sample to your state’s Cooperative Extension Service for analysis. Then, use the results to map out a plan of action. 

The first step should be to adjust the pH of the soil as indicated by test results. Establish the proper soil pH, between 5.8 and 7.2 depending on the grass species, to ensure that the grass can efficiently pull nutrients out of the soil. Lime raises the pH, while sulfur and aluminum sulfate lower it. Once the acidity is ideal, proceed with the necessary fertilizer application—and remember to mulch grass clippings. 

• Use soil test results to determine fertility needs.
• Apply lime as necessary to maintain the proper soil pH and maximize fertilizer efficiency.
• Mulch grass clippings and leave them on the lawn to reduce fertilizer requirements by as much as 30 percent.

FAQs

The best organic fertilizer can help keep lawns vigorous and healthy. For more information on using fertilizers, check out the answers to these frequently asked questions.

The post Improve the Look and Health of Your Grass With One of These Effective Organic Lawn Fertilizers appeared first on Bob Vila.

A full, green lawn creates curb appeal and makes you feel like sipping an iced tea on the back patio. But if bare spots peek through and weeds overpower the grass, the lawn might be more of an eyesore than a point of pride. Overseeding chokes weeds and fills out the grass until it’s thick and lush. If you’re not sure how to overseed a lawn, all it takes is the right tools, smart timing, and a little knowledge about your local climate.

DIY Lawn Care. Simplified.

Bob Vila has partnered with Sunday to get your lawn exactly what it needs to thrive.

START GROWING

What is “overseeding,” exactly? Why is this lawn task not just called “seeding”? “Overseeding” is the term for adding more grass seed to a lawn without turning the topsoil. For many homeowners, overseeding is central to general lawn maintenance. Some lawns might need it once a year if drought or disease threaten the grass, and other lawns might need it every few years only to brighten the grass and keep it full.

A few basic tools—like a lawn mower, seed and fertilizer spreader, and rake—are all that you need to achieve a less patchy, more verdant yard. With the right grass seed and timing, overseeding will restore the lawn and give it a lush, uniform appearance.

Project Overview

Working time: 3 hours or more, depending on the size of the lawn
Total time: 3 hours or more, depending on the size of the lawn
Skill level: Beginner
Estimated cost: $100 to $200, depending on size of lawn and products used

Before You Begin

If your lawn has thatch (a compact layer of grass and soil), it might need dethatching or aerating before you spread seed. Otherwise, the grass seed used in overseeding won’t reach the soil to germinate and take root. Aerating creates holes in the grass and soil through which water, oxygen, and vital nutrients can reach the new grass seed and the roots of the existing grass.

Overseeding a Lawn in 5 Simple Steps

Step 1: Mow and rake the lawn.

The goal of overseeding a lawn is to get the grass seed in contact with the soil. To do that, the first step is to mow the lawn. Mow it shorter than usual so the grass seed will have a better chance of reaching the soil. Make sure to bag the clippings so they don’t come between the seeds and soil.

After mowing, rake the entire lawn to remove dead grass, rocks, sticks, and any other debris. This process removes any final barriers between the grass seed and soil, and loosens the soil in preparation for seeding and germination.

Step 2: Amend the soil, if necessary.

Soil amendments are different from fertilizers. Amendments have specific nutrients and chemical compositions for specific soil types. For example, lime, wood ash, and poultry manure raise the pH level of acidic soil to make it more suitable for certain plants and grasses. Sulfur amendments, on the other hand, add acidity to alkaline soil. Additions of peat moss for clay soil and compost for sandy soil also can improve the nutrients in the lawn and its condition.

If a lawn has not been growing and greening as it should, doing a soil test can determine the soil type and pH. The test results will identify what, if any, types of amendments the soil needs for grass to develop. Keep in mind that if the soil has a neutral pH and is fertile, it likely needs no amendments.

RELATED: Top-Dressing a Lawn: Why It’s Important and How to Do It

DIY Lawn Care. Simplified.

Bob Vila has partnered with Sunday to get your lawn exactly what it needs to thrive.

START GROWING

Step 3: Spread the grass seed.

After determining the right time of year time to overseed (knowing when to reseed a lawn is based on your climate and grass type), load the grass seed into a seed spreader and set it to distribute about 16 seeds per square inch of soil. The right seed density will depend on the thickness of the existing lawn, so some lawns might need less. You can spread grass seed by hand if you don’t have a spreader.

Choose a grass seed designed for your climate or region that complements the existing grass. Cool-season grasses thrive in variable temperatures, like those found in the Northeast and Pacific Northwest. Warm-season grasses grow best in a climate like that of the southern United States. (For recommendations on quality seeds, see our researched guide to the best grass seed for overseeding.)

Consulting the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map can help determine the average local climate to best choose the appropriate grass type. Look for grass seed that’s rated by the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program because these varieties have been tested and found resistant to disease, drought, and common pests.

Step 4: Add grass seed fertilizer.

Select the best fertilizer for your region and property, and load it into a fertilizer spreader. Start by scattering around the perimeter of the lawn to make sure fertilizer reaches the edges of your property. Next, follow a pattern similar to a mowing pattern by moving in straight rows until the entire lawn is fertilized.

There are different types of fertilizer spreaders, including a broadcast spreader, handheld spreader, snap spreader, drop spreader, and liquid sprayer. Fertilizing small yards often requires just a small handheld spreader. Those with larger yards will save a lot of time and effort by using a broadcast spreader.

Both yard size and fertilizer type will determine which type of spreader is best for your property. For example, liquid fertilizer is applied via sprayer, like a quality backpack sprayer, and midsize yards are more easily fertilized with a snap or drop spreader. Keep in mind that some spreaders can handle both grass seed and fertilizer broadcasting, so depending on the fertilizer type and spreader, you might only need one tool for both steps.

Step 5: Water the seeded lawn.

After fertilizing, water the lawn for a short time each day. It’s best to water in the morning to maximize the water intake. More evaporation occurs during the afternoon and evening, which means it will take more water to get the same benefits. You don’t want to overwater the lawn because doing so can wash away the seed, prevent germination, or encourage thatch development and the growth of fungus and weeds. If there are puddles or the ground feels spongy, cut back on the watering time.

RELATED: Solved! How Long Does It Take Grass to Grow?

Final Thoughts

Part of learning how to overseed a lawn requires knowing when to do it, and this has everything to do with climate and grass type. Cool-season grasses seed best in the late summer and early fall. The cooler temperatures slow the growth of the existing grass but give the seeds time to germinate and grow before the grass goes dormant. Warm-season grass does best when seeded between early spring and early summer. In this case, the seed has time to germinate and grow before the warmest summer temperatures hit. Keep the new seed well watered to give it a good start on growth.

Once your lawn grass is shipshape, consider browsing low-maintenance plants for your landscape.

FAQs

The post How to Overseed a Lawn appeared first on Bob Vila.

Artificial grass made its big debut at the Astro Dome in 1966, hence the term Astroturf, but it’s come a long way since then. Once used only for professional sports fields, artificial grass is now a bona fide option for homeowners who want the look of a lush, green lawn without maintenance that provokes headaches.

Artificial grass requires no water or fertilizer, which makes it eco-friendly, and there’s no mowing required either. A lawn of artificial grass can last up to 15 years under heavy traffic, the only maintenance being an occasional spraying with the garden hose if you have pets (for obvious reasons!).

Professional installation of artificial grass can cost anywhere from $10 to $15 per square foot. But laying the turf, which costs between $2 and $8 per square foot, on an average-sized yard is a doable project if you’re game for some physical labor.

Check out this tried-and-true technique here for how to lay artificial grass!

Step 1: Remove grass from the area.

Remove whatever current turf you have. Use a spade or a sod-cutting machine (available to rent for about $100/day at a home improvement store) to pull it up. If a neighbor or friend can’t use it, dispose of the turf according to the organic waste removal rules in your community.

Tried-and-True Advice

“When laying artificial grass, I found that using a leaf blower to clear away sand and debris after spreading the builder’s sand and installing the turf made a huge difference in keeping the workspace clean and making sure the turf stuck properly. It’s quicker and more efficient than sweeping, and it helps prevent any leftover debris from getting trapped under the seams. Just be sure to hold the leaf blower at an angle to avoid disturbing the sand layer you just put down.”

—Paul Rankin, Contributing Writer

Step 2: Level the area.

You will need a level base on which to lay your artificial grass. Spread about 1 ½ inches of builder’s sand in the area to create a level surface, using a landscaping rake to distribute it evenly. Then, compact the sand with a tamper or 2 x 2 piece of plywood and a rubber hammer until it’s firm and level.

Step 3: Lay a weed barrier.

Lay down landscape fabric to reduce the chance of weeds growing up through the turf. Roll it out to cover the area completely, allowing the edges to overlap at any joints by several inches, and trim with a utility knife to secure it into place with landscaping staples every three or four feet.

Step 4: Lay the artificial turf.

Artificial grass has a “grain” to it, which means rather than standing straight up, it bends slightly at an angle. For the most natural look, roll it out so that the blades bend toward your home, making sure that all pieces are laid in the same direction.

If using more than one roll’s width of turf, it’s best to stagger the end seams so that they don’t line up in a row: They’ll be less visible and will wear better that way.

Trim any edges with a utility knife from the underside, being careful not to cut any of the turf.

Step 5: Join turf with jointing tape and adhesive.

Artificial grass generally comes in widths of 12 to 15 feet. If the space you’re covering is more than the roll’s width, you’ll need to join pieces together.

To do so, trim the edge of each of the pieces with a utility knife (from the back, being careful not to cut the turf) so that they will meet without overlapping. Then roll the pieces back and lay jointing tape underneath where the seam will be.

Apply artificial turf adhesive to the jointing tape, and lay the two turf pieces together, making sure that the seam matches up together, without overlapping.

Step 6: Nail the grass in place.

Using a rubber hammer, nail the artificial grass down with 7-inch lawn spikes. Space the nails about every 4 feet. Take care to spread the turf blades out and away from the base of the nail before you hammer it in. After nailing, brush the nap up around the nail to hide placement.

Step 7: Brush the lawn.

Once all the turf is installed, brush the entire lawn with a stiff-bristled broom to fluff up turf blades. If any sand went wayward during installation, hose the lawn down to remove it.

The post How to Lay Artificial Grass appeared first on Bob Vila.