Usually, people are well-informed about having to fertilize the grass to keep it healthy. However, not many are aware of the importance of using the best fertilizer for new grass at the beginning of the process. Hence, this is an excellent chance to get to know some of the best alternatives.
If you are one of the luckiest who knows about this secret to guarantee healthy grass, this info will be very useful. That is because there are special products that are suitable for special soil and grass needs.
Contents
Essential Nutrients for New Grass on Lawn
Here we’ll let you know about the top nutrients we need for our new grass to grow faster and healthy. All the plants around the world need these three nutrients to thrive. Lack of these nutrients can cause faded color, sluggish growth, and weak roots.
Nitrogen
Probably it is the most essential nutrient for grass. Nitrogen provides the green color of the grass and assists the blades to grow sharp and straight. That’s why according to the Scotts Turf Builder starter food for new grass, lack of nitrogen is the main issue for all lawn owners.
Potassium
If you want to apply grass seed and fertilizer at the same time, then potassium will play a big role here. Because potassium works as an activator for other nutrients and minerals. Do you know grass has almost numerous numbers of enzymes and without potassium grass won’t grow?
Phosphorus
Another essential nutrient for the grass. It Supports the plants when they face environmental stress. Lack of Phosphorus causes limited growth of the grass and weak roots of the grass. But you should be careful about Phosphorus leaks, they may enter your water supply, and be pretty harmful to health.
Top Fertilizer for New Grass
1. Scotts Turf Starter Food for New Grass
It is not strange that the brand Scotts competes for the best fertilizer for new grass. And we must recognize that they did a great job with this product. When you follow all the instructions and water the soil in the proper frequency, success is guaranteed.
In other words, you get thicker grass in quicker times than many other fertilizers offered in the market. Due to its combination of nutrients, this Scotts Turf Starter Food for New Grass can satisfy all the needs of any type of grass. Besides, it promotes growth from within by feeding the deepest roots.
Key Features
- The fertilizer ratio is 24-25-4
- It works either for planting new grass or reseeding an old one
- It is suitable for sod and grass plugs
- The content of one package covers up to 5,000 sq. ft
- The fertilizer speeds up the growth in about 35% more than other similar products or unfed grass
- The grass can get up to 75% ticker than those without fertilizer
Specifications
- Product dimensions: 16 x 12 x 3 inches
- Item weight: 15 pounds
- Manufacturer: ScotchBlue
Pros
- It is safe for any type of grass
- The mixture of nutrients contains phosphorus, Nitrogen, and potash
- It doesn´t stimulate weed growth
- It helps to maintain a greener appearance of the grass
Cons
- It requires watering at least once a day
- During the summer might burn the grass if not watered properly
Final Verdict
If you don´t want to risk anything at all, this is the fertilizer you need to choose. It contains all the ingredients that allow it to deliver guaranteed results. However, keep in mind that you need to be sure you can water the grass frequently, especially if you live in warm places.
2. Scotts Turf Builder Food for New Grass Plus Weed Preventer
Adding a starter fertilizer to your backyard or lawn is an extraordinary resource to make sure they grow at their best. And, if you include a product to prevent the weeds, it is even better. That is why this brand developed this Scotts Turf Builder Food for New Grass Plus Weed Preventer.
It is a 2-in-1 fertilizer that nurtures and doesn´t allow the annoying weeds to interrupt the perfect growth of the grass. Hence, weeds won´t be able to establish roots in the soil at the beginning of the seeding. As a result, you can obtain long-lasting results with less effort.
Key Features
- A 2-in1- a formula that prevents weeds and feeds new grass
- It works to prevent dandelions and crabgrass
- Grass grows faster and thicker than lawns or backyards without fertilizer
- Formulated to work on sod and grass plugs too
- The package covers up to 10,000 sq. ft
Specifications
- Product dimensions: 23 x 6 x 14.5 inches
- Weight: 43.3 pounds
- Manufacturer: Scotts
Pros
- It kills weeds without harming new grass
- If some weeds come up, they die quickly
Cons
- The preventive effect against weeds lasts only 6 months
- It is not suitable for bentgrass or dichondra lawns
Final Verdict
If your dream backyard or lawn doesn´t come up because of the weeds, this is the best fertilizer you can choose. Some lands are more prone to weeds than others, and if you have one of them, this is the right choice. As Scotts sponsors it, the results are guaranteed!
3. Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action
When weeds attack, you have to apply all the resources to get rid of them. This Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action fertilizer offers all the resources. It doesn´t only prevent but effectively kills weeds and nurtures your healthy grass. The power of this triple formula allows maximum penetration to the roots. This is why it can kill and prevent at the same time.
Key Features
- A 3-in-1 product that nurtures your grass and kills and prevents weeds
- The formula is suitable for Northern lawns such as Tall Fescue, Fine Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, and Kentucky Bluegrass.
- The content of 1 package covers up to 10,000 sq. ft.
- It kills visible and hidden weeds, including chickweed, dandelions, clever, and similar broadleaf species.
- It prevents the growth of fall panicum, annual bluegrass, foxtail, corn speedwell, purslane, oxalis, knotweed, prostrate spurge, barnyard grass, and henbit.
- This fertilizer is suitable for Bahiagrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, Bahiagrass, Tall Fescue, Zoysiagrass, Bermudagrass, and Fine Fescue.
Specifications
- Product dimensions: 24 x 6.8 x 15.5 inches
- Item weight: 50.3 pounds
- Manufacturer: Scotts
Pros
- The grass gets thicker and greener
- 01 bag of 50 Lb. covers up to 10,000 sq. ft
- It can prevent crabgrass for about 4 months
- It is easy to use and apply
Cons
- It is a little pricier than other fertilizers, but the triple-action formula may compensate for it.
- It is only suitable for Northern
Final Verdict
This would be an excellent fertilizer if you didn´t add one for new grass at the beginning of the process. If you didn´t, the chances are that some weeds are already showing up and disturbing the graceful growth of your new grass.
And, since it is preventive, you will avoid the growth of new weeds. Just make sure your type of grass is listed as Northern type because this fertilizer is only suitable for these types.
4. Milorganite Slow-Release Nitrogen Fertilizer
Milorganite has been around for about 90 years. And the main reason is its effectiveness. Firstly, it is versatile enough to apply it as a starter fertilizer and then to maintain your lawn or backyard. When using it as a starter fertilizer, it results on very convenient due to its high content of Nitrogen.
That component is crucial to make the leaf stronger and greener. Also, this versatility extends to serve as fertilizer not only for grass but for trees, flowers, and shrubs. In other words, you can use it for your entire lawn or backyard.
Key Features
- It is a slow-release formula that feeds up to 10 entire weeks
- It helps to reduce mowing due to its slow-release formula
- The formula contains iron which promotes a long-lasting green appearance
- It is salt-free
- It must be applied during the growing season
Specifications
- Product dimensions: 22 x 16 x 4 inches
- Item weight: 32 pounds
- Manufacturer: Milorganite
Pros
- It is a non-burning formula so you can use it safely
- It is recommended for areas with water restraint due to its lack of salt
- It is suitable for drought conditions
- It doesn´t require watering in as the slow-release formula allows strong absorption by the roots
- It is environmentally friendly
Cons
- The content of 32 Lbs. only covers up to 2,500 sq. ft.
Final Verdict
This is an excellent fertilizer from many points of view. Perhaps the most important feature is its versatility in using it in lawns, trees, and your entire backyard. It will save you efforts to distribute it instead of using one different product for each area. Also, its slow-release formula guarantees long-lasting results. Without a doubt, a good investment and you can use it as a starter and then to maintain your grass.
5. Lawn Food Natural Liquid Fertilizer by Simple Lawn Solutions
Besides the innovative way of its liquid presentation, this fertilizer is also an excellent alternative for other reasons. Among them, the most outstanding feature is the high concentration of Nitrogen and Potassium. This makes it a sure way to treat these deficiencies.
Also, it is safe and easy to use, which makes a great selection for family backyards or lawns. With this fertilizer, you can rest assured that your grass will get all the key nutrients to get greener and healthier leaves.
Key Features
- 15-0-15 NPK ratio that is phosphorus-free
- The formula includes Humic/Fulvic acid which increases cell transfer and helps to condition the soil
- The formula only contains high-quality Natural & Organic Food Grade ingredients
- It is children and pets safe
- It is suitable for all grass types, including Bermuda grass, St. Augustine, Buffalo, Bluegrass, and Centipede, among others.
- Suitable for sandy soils
Specifications
- Product dimensions: 5.5 x 3 x 9 inches
- Item weight: 3.29 pounds
- Manufacturer: UAS of America
Pros
- Made in the USA
- The formula doesn´t contain harsh chemicals
- Easy to use and doesn´t require preparation as it comes ready to apply
- It enhances the growth and the green of the grass as well as resistance to heat and cold
- It can be used commercially
Cons
- If the formula is applied in excess, it can burn the grass.
Final Verdict
If you are prone to use environmentally friendly products, this would be a great purchase for you. And, of course, you need to be sure that your lawn or backyard is not needing phosphorus. If you cover these two requirements, then it is a perfect choice. Besides, it is perfect if you want an easy-to-use product that comes ready to apply by squeezing the container.
6. Lesco Professional, 50 LB, 12,000 SQFT Coverage, 18-24-12
I guess you guys are eagerly waiting for a starter fertilizer. Yeah, your wait ends here, and now we are here with Lesco Professional starter fertilizer. This starter fertilizer is excellent for seeding and sodding. Moreover, the slow-release formula of Lesco helps to grow your lawn grass fast and after applying single-time Lesco Professional feeds up to 12 weeks. It is one of the best starter fertilizers for new grass seed.
Key Features
· It uses nitrogen to achieve dark green color and fast growth.
· To speed the growth Phosphate plays a great role.
· Potash improves tart hardiness and promotes strong roots.
· It includes 30% poly Coated Sulfur coated Urea.
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 4 x 12 x 24 inches
- Weight: 50 pounds
- Covers: 12,000 Square Feet
Pros
- Works excellent as a starter fertilizer.
- Doesn’t require frequent application.
- Suitable for lawn, sports field etc.
- Doesn’t burn the grass.
- Make the grass strong from the root.
Cons
- It makes the water a bit toxic which is harmful for animals.
Final Verdict
Overall it is the best fertilizer for new grass sod and also best for new grass seed. It works great in every season. Just apply the fertilizer while it’s raining. Totally environment friendly and it has certificates from different environmental organizations.
7. The Andersons Premium New Lawn Starter 20-27-5 Fertilizer – Covers up to 5,000 sq ft (18 lb)
The Andersons Premium New Lawn Starter is formulated in such a way that the main priority is on developing healthy roots. The awesome thing is it contains three types of nitrogen and they don’t work at a time. Firstly, nitrogen shows a quick response, and then they continuously feed the grass steadily and finally achieve a green color. This premium lawn starter fertilizer darkens the green color and helps to grow vigorous plants by using sulfur.
Key Features
- This fertilizer is formulated for newly seeded and new sod areas.
- Formulated with nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and several micronutrients.
- It contains 1% iron.
- Best fertilizer for new grass seed in spring.
- Stimulate root growth.
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 17.6 x 11.7 x 3.5 inches
- Wight: 17.71 pounds
- Covers: 5000 Square feet.
Pros
- The safest option for any grass.
- Three types of nitrogen are used.
- Ensures strong and healthy root development.
- Thickens the wall structure.
Cons
- Requires watering frequently.
Final Verdict
You guys already know Andersons Premium is one of the best fertilizers for new lawns in spring. You can apply the fertilizer anytime when it is the growing season. But we suggest you apply in spring or fall. If you are seeding, then don’t forget to keep the soil moist until the grass comes out of the seeds.
The best time to apply the best fertilizer for new grass
Basically, there are 3 main moments you can apply this type of fertilizer as follows:
- Before planting the grass seeds, you need to prepare the soil. This is the first time you have to add fertilizer. It penetrates the soil easily, and it is time to attack the roots of the weeds that you don´t see on the surface.
- Right after planting the seeds, you can add fertilizer to complement the process. It will help the seeds to absorb extra nutrients from the very beginning.
- After 3 or 4 weeks of seeding. Although it is not the best moment, you still have time to obtain the benefits. Also, if you start to notice some weeds, you can include products that contain and prevent weed killers.
What to Look at Before Buying the Best Fertilizer for New Grass
Generally, we see two main types of fertilizers, organic and synthetic fertilizers. The fertilizers we’ve reviewed here are synthetic fertilizers. They are mainly man-made and add different types of chemically formulated nutrients. As you have seen the reviews of fertilizers and almost all of them have nitrogen in them. Nitrogen helps to grow good leaves and roots. Like nitrogen, potassium insures water balance and phosphorus makes the root strong.
We know soil doesn’t have all the nutrients it needs which causes erosion and discoloring of the grass. That’s why we use synthetic fertilizers to maintain the balance of nutrients and obtain the growth we want.
Furthermore, there are different types of fertilizers for different types of grass. Such as some are the best fertilizers for new Bermuda grass and some are the best fertilizers for new fescue grass. All you have to do is Google the fertilizer you have selected and know if it is suitable for the specific grass you have on your lawn. Besides it’s necessary to know just when to fertilize new fescue grass or new Bermuda grass.
Every part of the world has different conditions and the grass growing rate is different. That’s why knowing about the best fertilizer ratio for new grass is a must for you guys. For summer, you must apply the best fertilizer for new grass in summer. Because if you use cool season fertilizer in summer on the turf, they may not be able to give the growth and color you want.
Moreover, don’t forget to check the fertilizer’s composition ratio before buying. Like if you see the number 10-10-10 fertilizer for new grass, it means this fertilizer contains 10% of each of these three nitrogen, Phosphorus, and potassium nutrients.
FAQ´s
Q – Can fertilizers with weed killers also kill my new grass?
A – No, they don´t kill your new grass. That is the innovation of such formulas and the reasons why they are offered.
Q – Can I add fertilizer when preparing the soil and when seeding the soil?
A – It is recommended to apply it only at one of those moments. Otherwise, you might burn your new grass.
Q – Should I fertilize when I overseed?
A – Yes, you should add fertilizer when you overseed. And, you can use fertilizer for new grass because it would be fresh grass needing nutrients from this type of fertilizer.
Final Words
The best time to apply the best fertilizer for new grass is at the beginning of the process. There is no need to wait until your grass is weak and poor to start fertilizing it. The products mentioned above cover all the possibilities you can find to ensure a healthier, greener, and more resistant grass.
Meta description: Find the best fertilizer for new grass by selecting the best nutrients. And choose among the best formulas that can also prevent and kill weeds to let you enjoy greener and healthier grass.
