{"id":5670,"date":"2026-02-10T08:00:10","date_gmt":"2026-02-10T08:00:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/?p=5670"},"modified":"2026-08-07T23:44:01","modified_gmt":"2026-08-07T23:44:01","slug":"lawn-care-fertilizer-basics-what-to-look-for-in-your-fertilizer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/lawn-care-fertilizer-basics-what-to-look-for-in-your-fertilizer\/","title":{"rendered":"Fertilizer Basics: What to Look for in Your Fertilizer"},"content":{"rendered":"<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Key Takeaways:<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>\u2022 The three numbers on fertilizer bags show nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) percentages.<br>\u2022 Granular fertilizers feed slowly over months; liquid fertilizers work immediately.<br>\u2022 Most lawns need 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet annually.<br>\u2022 Fertilize warm-season grasses in summer, cool-season grasses in early fall.<br>\u2022 A soil test ($10-$30) tells you exactly what your lawn needs.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Choosing the right fertilizer starts with the three numbers on the bag. These indicate the nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels. Then you must decide whether your lawn needs a quick nutrient boost or slow, steady feeding, and choose between organic or synthetic options.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most lawns only need feeding once or twice a year during the growing season. A soil test provides the best answers. A balanced blend usually works if you skip testing.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The right choice depends on your grass type, the season, and whether you want immediate results or long-term health. <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/\">Professional lawn fertilization services<\/a> take the guesswork out of the process if you&#8217;d rather leave it to the experts.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-7dd58557-1685-451d-8053-8e8792a31e44\" data-linktodivider=\"false\" data-showtext=\"show\" data-hidetext=\"hide\" data-scrolltype=\"auto\" data-enablesmoothscroll=\"false\" data-initiallyhideonmobile=\"false\" data-initiallyshow=\"true\"><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header\" style=\"text-align: left; \"> \t\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-title\" style=\"\"><strong>In this article:<\/strong><\/div> \t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-extra-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-container ub_table-of-contents-1-column\"> \t\t\t\t<ul style=\"\"><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/lawn-care-fertilizer-basics-what-to-look-for-in-your-fertilizer\/#0-what-is-n-p-k\" style=\"\">What is N-P-K?<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/lawn-care-fertilizer-basics-what-to-look-for-in-your-fertilizer\/#1-how-do-i-know-what-my-lawn-needs\" style=\"\">How do I know what my lawn needs?<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/lawn-care-fertilizer-basics-what-to-look-for-in-your-fertilizer\/#2-granular-vs-liquid-fertilizer\" style=\"\">Granular vs. liquid fertilizer<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/lawn-care-fertilizer-basics-what-to-look-for-in-your-fertilizer\/#5-organic-vs-synthetic-fertilizer\" style=\"\">Organic vs. synthetic fertilizer<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/lawn-care-fertilizer-basics-what-to-look-for-in-your-fertilizer\/#8-how-much-fertilizer-do-i-need\" style=\"\">How much fertilizer do I need?<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/lawn-care-fertilizer-basics-what-to-look-for-in-your-fertilizer\/#9-when-should-i-apply-fertilizer\" style=\"\">When should I apply fertilizer?<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/lawn-care-fertilizer-basics-what-to-look-for-in-your-fertilizer\/#10-how-to-apply-fertilizer\" style=\"\">How to apply fertilizer<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/lawn-care-fertilizer-basics-what-to-look-for-in-your-fertilizer\/#11-how-to-choose-the-right-fertilizer-for-your-lawn\" style=\"\">How to choose the right fertilizer for your lawn<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/lawn-care-fertilizer-basics-what-to-look-for-in-your-fertilizer\/#12-faqs\" style=\"\">FAQs<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <h2 id=\"0-what-is-n-p-k\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"what-is-n-p-k\">What is N-P-K?<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"508\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Fertilizer-NPK-1.jpg\" alt=\"Fertilizer in soil. The concept of plant care is the need for feeding with various fertilizers. Text N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Mn, Cl, B, Fe, Zn\" class=\"wp-image-23303\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Fertilizer-NPK-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Fertilizer-NPK-1-300x191.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Fertilizer-NPK-1-768x488.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Fertilizer-NPK-1-610x387.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fertilizer on soil. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/fertilizer-in-soil-the-concept-of-plant-care-is-the-need-for-feeding-with-various-fertilizers-text-n-p-k-ca-mg-s-mn-cl-b-fe-zn\/468884909\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ooddysmile<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fertilizer bags display three numbers. These represent the percentage of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium inside. They always appear in this standard N-P-K order.<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Nitrogen: <\/strong>It drives leaf growth and creates the rich green color homeowners want.<\/li>    <li><strong>Phosphorus<\/strong>: It supports root development (especially important for new lawns).&nbsp;<\/li>    <li><strong>Potassium<\/strong>: It helps the lawn resist drought, disease, and cold weather.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some fertilizers also contain micronutrients like iron, which deepens green color, or sulfur, which helps acidify <a href=\"https:\/\/myfineyard.com\/soil-condition\/alkaline-high-ph\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">alkaline soil<\/a>.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Example: <\/strong>A 30-0-10 fertilizer bag contains 30 percent nitrogen. It has 10 percent potassium with zero phosphorus. This blend supports green growth on established lawns.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Note<\/strong>: You&#8217;ll also hear lawn experts mention &#8220;ratios&#8221; like 4-1-2. A ratio is just the three NPK numbers simplified down. To find the ratio, divide all three numbers by the smallest one.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, 16-4-8 becomes 4-1-2 (divide by 4), and 30-0-10 becomes 3-0-1 (divide by 10). Multiple products can share the same ratio but deliver different total nutrient amounts.<\/p>    <h2 id=\"1-how-do-i-know-what-my-lawn-needs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"how-do-i-know-what-my-lawn-needs\">How do I know what my lawn needs?<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A soil test is the only way to know for certain what nutrients your lawn lacks. You have two options:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>At-home kits: <\/strong>DIY kits are available at hardware stores for $10-$20. They are generally less accurate than lab tests but can give you a rough idea of your soil pH and major nutrient deficiencies.&nbsp;<\/li>    <li><strong>Laboratory soil tests: <\/strong>Laboratory tests provide the most accurate results. Cooperative extension services analyze samples for roughly $10-$30. They check pH levels and nutrient content. You receive a report suggesting the exact fertilizer grade to buy.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>If you skip the soil test<\/strong>, Cory Bettinghouse, owner of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.coryslawnservice.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cory&#8217;s Lawn Service<\/a> in Reno, NV, recommends: &#8220;For established lawns I stick to a 3-1-2 or 4-1-2 ratio,&#8221; he says. This works for both cool-season and warm-season grasses when timed correctly.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tim DiAngelis, owner of <a href=\"https:\/\/lawncareplusma.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lawn Care Plus<\/a> in Boston, suggests 20-5-10 or 24-0-6 for cool-season lawns. &#8220;They give enough nitrogen for green color without pushing excessive growth.&#8221;&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Note: <\/strong>Without a soil test, skip phosphorus (middle number) on established lawns\u2014it&#8217;s usually already in your soil. Some states even restrict it by law without a test. You\u2019ll need a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/when-to-apply-starter-fertilizer\/\">starter fertilizer<\/a> with phosphorus when planting fresh grass seed. It helps young roots grow deep.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-soil-test-your-lawn\/\">How to Soil Test Your Lawn<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-read-soil-test-report\/\">How to Read a Soil Test Report<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/fertilizing-new-grass\/\">A Complete Guide to Fertilizing New Grass<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"2-granular-vs-liquid-fertilizer\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"granular-vs-liquid-fertilizer\">Granular vs. liquid fertilizer<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Feature<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Granular<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Liquid<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Description<\/strong><\/td><td>Dry pellets you spread with a broadcast or drop spreader<\/td><td>Concentrated formula you dilute with water and spray<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Timeframe<\/strong><\/td><td>3 to 7 days<\/td><td>Within hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Lasts<\/strong><\/td><td>6 to 12 weeks&nbsp;<\/td><td>2 to 4 weeks<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Cost<\/strong><\/td><td>Lower ($135 to $350)<\/td><td>Higher ($150 to $515)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Best for<\/strong><\/td><td>Routine feeding, established lawns that need long-term feeding<\/td><td>Quick fixes, new lawns, and small areas<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h3 id=\"3-granular-fertilizer\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"granular-fertilizer\">Granular fertilizer<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/fertilizer-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"feeding lawn with granular fertilizer for perfect green grass\" class=\"wp-image-39817\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/fertilizer-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/fertilizer-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/fertilizer-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/fertilizer-1080x720.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/fertilizer-610x407.jpg 610w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/fertilizer-928x619.jpg 928w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/fertilizer.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Granular fertilizer. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/feeding-lawn-with-granular-fertilizer-for-perfect-green-grass\/370744651\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ronstik<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">DiAngelis says granular is preferred over liquid if you want long-term feeding.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;Granular lasts 6 to 12 weeks versus liquid&#8217;s 2 to 4 weeks because the pellets break down slowly with each watering,&#8221; explains DiAngelis.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why choose it:<\/strong><\/p>   <ul style=\"padding-left: 1.1em;text-align: left;--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px;--ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em;);--ub-list-item-fa-li-top: 3px;--ub-list-item-spacing: 0px;column-count: 1;--ub-list-mobile-column-count: 1\" class=\"wp-block-ub-styled-list ub_styled_list\" id=\"ub_styled_list-cce2839a-53ba-41c7-bde2-c5d0de3cc61b\"> <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-b23eb3f8-cc1e-4b75-9a03-936b241ce784\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Feeds grass for 6-12 weeks with one application<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-7045eab7-ce84-4141-98cb-afdb7d54dda3\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Less expensive than liquid<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-c8c1a887-2685-48d9-9f38-eb606069fd03\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Longer shelf life<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-068397fc-a8b2-48d9-8348-392dd5dbc217\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Ideal for routine maintenance<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li> <\/ul>   <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The downsides:&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>   <ul style=\"padding-left: 1.1em;text-align: left;--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px;--ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em;);--ub-list-item-fa-li-top: 3px;--ub-list-item-spacing: 0px;column-count: 1;--ub-list-mobile-column-count: 1\" class=\"wp-block-ub-styled-list ub_styled_list\" id=\"ub_styled_list-2445a01f-7410-4639-abb3-21881ba61432\"> <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 320 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-bb289f2b-d826-4f10-b376-a3999229be8b\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Takes days to start working<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 320 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-2cfbfc80-798f-4dac-97dd-76a5df9c8526\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Requires physical effort to spread<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 320 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-9ee567c9-2215-43b0-9f67-e6d8970bc181\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Not ideal for new grass seed or stressed lawns<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 320 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-cd3c6c7c-0d8c-4ec7-9391-28af8e926693\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Uneven pellet sizes can cause streaky application<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li> <\/ul>   <h3 id=\"4-liquid-fertilizer\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"liquid-fertilizer\">Liquid fertilizer<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, liquid is a powerful tool for specific problems. Bettinghouse uses liquid in three scenarios: \u201cfixing visible deficiencies fast, applying micronutrients like iron for immediate chlorophyll response, and foliar feeding during drought stress when roots aren&#8217;t absorbing well.\u201d<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why choose it:<\/strong><\/p>   <ul style=\"padding-left: 1.1em;text-align: left;--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px;--ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em;);--ub-list-item-fa-li-top: 3px;--ub-list-item-spacing: 0px;column-count: 1;--ub-list-mobile-column-count: 1\" class=\"wp-block-ub-styled-list ub_styled_list\" id=\"ub_styled_list-0cbdd84f-394b-44ea-9fc3-11aee0ff68e0\"> <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-94ffd100-1658-4db2-ac57-df74c4aa5917\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Works immediately\u2014grass absorbs nutrients within hours<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-c9905515-3f98-4c0a-8f21-9da2c9ded4c1\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Uniform nutrient distribution in every drop<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-e9a58496-480b-4038-9a8f-2e7e8f23544b\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Easier to apply with hose-end sprayer<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-5af27627-d705-4ad6-aef8-061583973445\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Perfect for reviving stressed lawns<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li> <\/ul>   <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The downsides:<\/strong><\/p>   <ul style=\"padding-left: 1.1em;text-align: left;--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px;--ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em;);--ub-list-item-fa-li-top: 3px;--ub-list-item-spacing: 0px;column-count: 1;--ub-list-mobile-column-count: 1\" class=\"wp-block-ub-styled-list ub_styled_list\" id=\"ub_styled_list-885cf95d-5de8-4ffe-ad7f-16343353e1a3\"> <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 320 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-a3a8bfcb-eb60-4aeb-a3a3-70a283e74ba3\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Effects only last 2-4 weeks<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 320 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-e07c0d10-88d0-4ac1-95a8-8b15bc9add2b\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">More expensive per application<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 320 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-df579b9a-6be3-403b-bccb-b257fa29cf40\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Can trigger excessive growth if misapplied<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 320 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-68daa112-c93f-46ee-99a5-d75d5d05f59b\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Shorter shelf life<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li> <\/ul>   <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/liquid-vs-granular-fertilizers\/\">Liquid vs. Granular Fertilizer<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/slow-release-vs-quick-release-fertilizer\/\">Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release Fertilizer<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"5-organic-vs-synthetic-fertilizer\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"organic-vs-synthetic-fertilizer\">Organic vs. synthetic fertilizer<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_lawnlove-fertilizer-illustration-v3.png\" alt=\"illustration depicting organic fertilizer and synthetic fertilizer\" class=\"wp-image-4946\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_lawnlove-fertilizer-illustration-v3.png 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_lawnlove-fertilizer-illustration-v3-300x150.png 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_lawnlove-fertilizer-illustration-v3-768x384.png 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_lawnlove-fertilizer-illustration-v3-610x305.png 610w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_lawnlove-fertilizer-illustration-v3-390x195.png 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Infographic by Juan Rodriguez<br><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Feature<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Organic<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Synthetic fertilizer<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Ingredients<\/strong><\/td><td>Compost, blood meal, or fish emulsion<\/td><td>Constructed chemicals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>How it works<\/strong><\/td><td>Feeds the soil microbes<\/td><td>Feeds the plant roots<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Time to work<\/strong><\/td><td>Weeks to months<\/td><td>Days to weeks<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Cost<\/strong><\/td><td>High ($175 to $434)<\/td><td>Low ($100 to $300)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Best for<\/strong><\/td><td>Organic lawn care enthusiasts who prioritize soil health<\/td><td>Homeowners who want predictable, fast, affordable results<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h3 id=\"6-organic-fertilizer\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"organic-fertilizer\">Organic fertilizer<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cOrganic fertilizers feed soil microbes that synthetic products don&#8217;t support\u2014those microbes create lasting soil structure and natural disease resistance,&#8221; DiAngelis says.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He has seen lawns transition from needing 5 synthetic applications yearly to just 2 organic ones after 3 seasons because the soil over time became healthier.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why choose it:&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>   <ul style=\"padding-left: 1.1em;text-align: left;--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px;--ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em;);--ub-list-item-fa-li-top: 3px;--ub-list-item-spacing: 0px;column-count: 1;--ub-list-mobile-column-count: 1\" class=\"wp-block-ub-styled-list ub_styled_list\" id=\"ub_styled_list-93738277-700a-47e3-ba82-fb612c50ef9d\"> <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-dd9b07ab-02a5-4b7b-bad9-aca73e322005\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Releases nutrients slowly as soil organisms break them down<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-49660208-6648-4fee-88dc-12ce80f7d5c0\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Improves soil structure and adds organic matter<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-96026d14-bb03-4bd1-b477-76a1bc8bc2f6\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Lower risk of burning grass<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-e95cd09f-00ea-46d7-b410-7709a59c9f00\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Less likely to run off into waterways<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li> <\/ul>   <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The downsides:<\/strong><\/p>   <ul style=\"padding-left: 1.1em;text-align: left;--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px;--ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em;);--ub-list-item-fa-li-top: 3px;--ub-list-item-spacing: 0px;column-count: 1;--ub-list-mobile-column-count: 1\" class=\"wp-block-ub-styled-list ub_styled_list\" id=\"ub_styled_list-d4505eb8-20af-4f1d-8581-ccb938b23bec\"> <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 320 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-4cc82ce8-7ed4-4f0c-9f7c-aa53d7361dcd\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Works slowly, especially in cool soil<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 320 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-698996d0-1daf-445a-940c-f717d602a611\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Nutrient content varies and isn&#8217;t always listed<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 320 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-40605eec-cb3a-4171-ab37-33b8fd98d315\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">More expensive<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 320 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-0f01e607-f9dc-46b2-b640-a70879550db8\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">May contain weed seeds or require proper composting to eliminate pathogens<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 320 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-67534b19-c803-4f5f-8bd2-c1aec0f0234a\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 320 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M310.6 150.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L160 210.7 54.6 105.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L114.7 256 9.4 361.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0L160 301.3 265.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0s12.5-32.8 0-45.3L205.3 256 310.6 150.6z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Over-application still harms groundwater<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li> <\/ul>   <h3 id=\"7-synthetic-fertilizer\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"synthetic-fertilizer\">Synthetic fertilizer<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Factories manufacture these to contain high nutrient concentrations. DiAngelis warns that &#8220;synthetic gives you fast color but does nothing for long-term soil health.\u201d<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why choose it:&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Available in quick-release or slow-release formulas<\/li>    <li>Precise nutrient ratios<\/li>    <li>Usually less expensive<\/li>    <li>Easier to calculate application rates<\/li>    <li>Safe when used properly<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The downsides:<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Higher risk of burning grass if over-applied<\/li>    <li>Doesn&#8217;t improve soil structure<\/li>    <li>Greater potential for groundwater pollution through runoff<\/li>    <li>Can leach into environment if misused<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/organic-vs-inorganic-fertilizers\/\">Organic vs. Inorganic Fertilizers<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/selecting-and-using-inorganic-fertilizers\/\">How to Select and Use Inorganic Fertilizers<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/combine-organic-inorganic-fertilizer\/\">Can You Combine Organic and Inorganic Fertilizer?<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"8-how-much-fertilizer-do-i-need\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"how-much-fertilizer-do-i-need\">How much fertilizer do I need?<\/span><\/h2>    <title>Fertilizer Calculator<\/title>  <style> :root {     --fc-primary-color: #3a5a40;     --fc-primary-hover: #2d4330;     --fc-light-bg: #f9f9f9;     --fc-results-bg: #e8f5e9;     --fc-error-color: #d32f2f; }  .fc-body {     font-family: 'Segoe UI', Arial, sans-serif;     background-color: #f0f2f5;     padding: 20px;     color: #333; }  .fc-calculator {     background: white;     max-width: 600px;     margin: auto;     padding: 20px;     border-radius: 12px;     box-shadow: 0 4px 8px rgba(0,0,0,0.1); }  .fc-title {     text-align: center;     color: var(--fc-primary-color);     font-size: 1.6rem;     margin-bottom: 15px; }  .fc-group {     margin-bottom: 14px; }  .fc-label {     font-weight: 600;     display: block;     margin-bottom: 4px;     font-size: 14px; }  .fc-input {     width: 100%;     padding: 8px 10px;     border-radius: 6px;     border: 1px solid #ccc;     font-size: 14px; }  .fc-input:focus {     outline: none;     border-color: var(--fc-primary-color);     box-shadow: 0 0 0 2px rgba(58,90,64,0.2); }  .fc-button {     background-color: var(--fc-primary-color);     color: white;     border: none;     padding: 10px;     width: 100%;     font-size: 15px;     font-weight: 600;     border-radius: 6px;     cursor: pointer; }  .fc-button:hover {     background-color: var(--fc-primary-hover); }  .fc-results {     display: none;     margin-top: 20px;     background-color: var(--fc-results-bg);     padding: 16px;     border-radius: 8px;     text-align: center; }  .fc-results strong {     color: var(--fc-primary-color); }  .fc-error {     display: none;     color: var(--fc-error-color);     font-size: 13px;     margin-top: 4px; } <\/style>     <div class=\"fc-calculator\">     <h2 id=\"fertilizer-calculator\" class=\"fc-title\">Fertilizer Calculator<\/h2>      <div class=\"fc-group\">         <label class=\"fc-label\">Lawn Size (square feet)<\/label>         <input type=\"number\" id=\"fc-area\" class=\"fc-input\" placeholder=\"Example: 5000\">         <div class=\"fc-error\" id=\"fc-area-error\">Enter a valid lawn size<\/div>     <\/div>      <div class=\"fc-group\">         <label class=\"fc-label\">Nitrogen Percentage (first number on bag)<\/label>         <input type=\"number\" id=\"fc-nitrogen\" class=\"fc-input\" placeholder=\"Example: 30\">         <div class=\"fc-error\" id=\"fc-nitrogen-error\">Enter a valid nitrogen percentage<\/div>     <\/div>      <button class=\"fc-button\" id=\"fc-calc-btn\">Calculate Fertilizer Needed<\/button>      <div class=\"fc-results\" id=\"fc-results\">         <p>You need:<\/p>         <p><strong><span id=\"fc-product-amount\">0<\/span> pounds<\/strong><\/p>         <p>of fertilizer per application year<\/p>     <\/div> <\/div>  <script>\nfunction trackGA4(eventName, params) {\n  if (typeof window.gtag === \"function\") {\n    window.gtag(\"event\", eventName, {\n      send_to: \"G-PH7SD81Q1V\",\n      debug_mode: true,\n      ...(params || {})\n    });\n  }\n}\n\ndocument.getElementById(\"fc-calc-btn\").addEventListener(\"click\", function () {\n    const area = parseFloat(document.getElementById(\"fc-area\").value);\n    const nitrogen = parseFloat(document.getElementById(\"fc-nitrogen\").value);\n\n    document.getElementById(\"fc-area-error\").style.display = \"none\";\n    document.getElementById(\"fc-nitrogen-error\").style.display = \"none\";\n\n    if (isNaN(area) || area <= 0) {\n        document.getElementById(\"fc-area-error\").style.display = \"block\";\n        return;\n    }\n\n    if (isNaN(nitrogen) || nitrogen <= 0) {\n        document.getElementById(\"fc-nitrogen-error\").style.display = \"block\";\n        return;\n    }\n\n    const nitrogenDecimal = nitrogen \/ 100;\n    const nitrogenNeeded = area \/ 1000;\n    const productNeeded = nitrogenNeeded \/ nitrogenDecimal;\n\n    document.getElementById(\"fc-product-amount\").textContent = productNeeded.toFixed(2);\n    document.getElementById(\"fc-results\").style.display = \"block\";\n\n    trackGA4(\"LL-fertilizer-need\", {\n        lawn_size: area,\n        nitrogen_percent: nitrogen,\n        product_lbs: productNeeded.toFixed(2)\n    });\n});\n<\/script>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most lawns need <strong>1 lb. of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per year<\/strong>. Here's how to calculate how much product to buy:<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Example:<\/strong> Let's say your soil test recommends a 30-0-10 fertilizer:<\/p>    <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Convert the nitrogen percentage to a decimal:<\/strong> 30% = 0.30<\/li>    <li><strong>Divide 1 pound by 0.30<\/strong>: 1 \u00f7 0.30 = 3.33 pounds<\/li>    <li><strong>Result<\/strong>: 3.33 pounds of 30-0-10 fertilizer per 1,000 square feet<\/li> <\/ol>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Warning: <\/strong>Split annual applications into 2-3 feedings rather than applying all at once.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bettinghouse explains that applying too much fertilizer harms your lawn.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cExceeding 1 lb. of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet causes excessive top growth that looks great for two weeks, then crashes hard\u2014weak roots, disease susceptibility, and you're mowing twice as often,\" he says.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-avoid-over-fertilizing-lawn\/\">How to Avoid Over-Fertilizing Your Lawn<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/what-is-fertilizer-burn\/\">What is Fertilizer Burn?<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-do-you-know-you-over-fertilized-lawn\/\">How Do You Know You Over-Fertilized Your Lawn?<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-fix-over-fertilized-lawn\/\">How to Fix an Over-Fertilized Lawn: 6 Easy Steps<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"9-when-should-i-apply-fertilizer\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"when-should-i-apply-fertilizer\">When should I apply fertilizer?<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"505\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_grass_zones.png\" alt=\"illustration showing the cool and warm season grasses on the US map, along with the transitional zone\" class=\"wp-image-4479\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_grass_zones.png 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_grass_zones-300x189.png 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_grass_zones-768x485.png 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_grass_zones-610x385.png 610w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_grass_zones-390x246.png 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Timing depends on where you live and what kind of grass you have. Fertilize when the grass is actively growing:<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. Warm-season grasses<\/strong> (Southern lawns)<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These varieties need heat. This typically means late spring or early summer (late May to early). Wait until the soil reaches 65 degrees and the color is fully green. A good rule of thumb is to wait until nighttime temperatures are around 70 degrees F.<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/bermudagrass-guide\/\">Bermudagrass<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/st-augustinegrass-guide\/\">St. Augustine grass<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/zoysiagrass-guide\/\">Zoysiagrass<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/centipedegrass-guide\/\">Centipedegrass<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/buffalograss-guide\/\">Buffalograss<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/bahiagrass-guide\/\">Bahiagrass<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. Cool-season grasses<\/strong> (Northern lawns)<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">DiAngelis says cool-season grasses do best with multiple feedings.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\"Three to four times per year is ideal,\u201d he says. \u201cEarly spring, late spring, <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/when-to-apply-fall-fertilizer\/\">early fall,<\/a> and optional late fall.\u201d<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;Wait for soil temperatures to hit around 55 degrees F.<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/kentucky-bluegrass-guide\/\">Kentucky bluegrass<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/perennial-ryegrass-guide\/\">Perennial ryegrass<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/tall-fescue-guide\/\">Tall fescue<\/a><\/li>    <li>Fine fescue<\/li>    <li>Bentgrass<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here is our complete guide on <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/when-to-fertilize-lawn\/\">when to fertilize<\/a> your lawn. It covers how timing changes based on grass type, your region, and weather conditions<\/p>    <h2 id=\"10-how-to-apply-fertilizer\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"how-to-apply-fertilizer\">How to apply fertilizer<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"469\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/rsz_how-to-spread-fertilizer-v2.jpg\" alt=\"illustration showing how to spread fertilizer\" class=\"wp-image-5386\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/rsz_how-to-spread-fertilizer-v2.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/rsz_how-to-spread-fertilizer-v2-300x176.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/rsz_how-to-spread-fertilizer-v2-768x450.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/rsz_how-to-spread-fertilizer-v2-610x358.jpg 610w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/rsz_how-to-spread-fertilizer-v2-390x229.jpg 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Infographic by Juan Rodriguez<br><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/ways-to-apply-fertilizer\/\">best way to apply your fertilizer<\/a> often depends on your yard size and how much time you have available:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Applying granular fertilizer: <\/strong>Check your spreader settings first. Fill the hopper on the driveway to prevent burns. Walk the perimeter before finishing with a grid pattern. Sweep stray pellets off concrete to keep chemicals out of storm drains.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> Overlap each pass slightly with a drop spreader. With a rotary spreader, leave a few feet between passes since granules spread 3-5 feet from the machine.<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Applying liquid fertilizer:<\/strong> Use a pump sprayer or hose attachment. Mix the concentrate exactly as the label directs. Walk steadily while sweeping the nozzle side to side. Skip windy days to keep the chemical mist off your garden plants.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Here\u2019s our complete guide on: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-fertilize-lawn\/\">How to Fertilize Your Lawn<\/a><\/p>    <h2 id=\"11-how-to-choose-the-right-fertilizer-for-your-lawn\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"how-to-choose-the-right-fertilizer-for-your-lawn\">How to choose the right fertilizer for your lawn<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Buying the right fertilizer requires reading the label closely. Bettinghouse notes that general fertilizers sold in stores don\u2019t allow for regional differences with soil and grass needs.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cBox store brands use identical formulas from Florida to Nevada, which is insane when you consider our Reno soil and climate are completely different from humid regions.\u201d<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">DiAngelis advises reading the fine print.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cWatch out for high chloride content and excessive salts--they'll damage your grass in hot weather,\u201d he says. \u201cIf you see words like \u2018biosolids\u2019 without clear sourcing, that's a red flag, too.\u201d<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now you know what to look for:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Match N-P-K numbers to your soil test or use a balanced blend.<\/li>    <li>Pick granular pellets for slow feeding or liquid sprays for speed.<\/li>    <li>Calculate 1 lb. of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet.<\/li>    <li>Avoid national formulas that ignore your specific regional climate.<\/li>    <li>Skip bags with high salt or chloride that burn grass.<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"12-faqs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"faqs\">FAQs<\/span><\/h2>    <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1769573475622\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Does fertilizer go bad?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Fertilizer doesn\u2019t really expire. Granular types can last for years if kept dry in a sealed container. Liquid fertilizer can stay good 8-10 years unopened, but is best used the same season once opened.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1769573483398\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are the 4 R's of fertilizer?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The 4 R\u2019s mean using fertilizer the right way: right source (correct product), right rate (correct amount), right time (best season), and right place (where the roots can use it). This reduces waste and pollution.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1769573490698\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is 20\/20\/20 fertilizer good for lawns?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">20-20-20 is a balanced, all\u2011purpose fertilizer, but it\u2019s usually better for gardens and container plants than home lawns. Most established lawns do best with products higher in nitrogen and lower in phosphorus and potassium. Always test your soil before applying fertilizer.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>    <h2 id=\"13-let-lawn-love-handle-your-fertilization\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"let-lawn-love-handle-your-fertilization\">Let Lawn Love handle your fertilization<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Choosing the right bag is only the first step. You also have to store the leftovers, calibrate your spreader, and water it in at the right time. Why spend your weekend doing math and pushing a spreader?<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Lawn Love connects you with local lawn care pros who can handle everything from <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/lawn-fertilization\">fertilization<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/lawn-aeration\">aeration<\/a> to <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/weed-control\">weed control<\/a>. Get a free <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/\">instant quote<\/a> today and enjoy a greener lawn without the work.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Main Image: Person fertilizing a lawn using a spreader. Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/pixnio.com\/people\/male-men\/man-was-pictured-dispensing-fertilizer-granules-across-his-front-lawn#\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixnio<\/a><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Experts recommend checking N-P-K numbers and getting a soil test. Learn how to choose the right nutrient ratio and granular vs. liquid type for your lawn.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":71,"featured_media":5673,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","fifu_image_url":"","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[126],"tags":[226],"class_list":["post-5670","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-lawn-care-tips","tag-lawn-care-tips"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_1pixnio-47945-1200x797-1.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Luminita Toma","author_link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/author\/luminita-toma\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5670","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/71"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5670"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5670\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":48187,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5670\/revisions\/48187"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5673"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5670"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5670"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5670"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}