10 Best Fertilizers for Grass to Get a Lush, Green Lawn

I’ve tested dozens of fertilizers over the years, and these top products consistently deliver lush, green results. Scotts Turf Builder provides excellent all-season nutrition for any grass type, while their Green Max formula includes iron for quick color enhancement within three days. For seasonal needs, WinterGuard prepares lawns for dormancy, and Triple Action combines fertilization with weed control. Simple Lawn Solutions offers liquid application for faster nutrient absorption, while Pennington’s concentrated formula feeds for four months. Continue exploring to discover which specific formulation matches your lawn’s unique requirements.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. Last update on 12th September 2025 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.

Notable Insights

• Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food provides all-purpose nutrition for any grass type and builds deep root systems.
• Scotts Green Max delivers rapid results within three days using 5% iron content for enhanced green coloration.
• Simple Lawn Solutions Advanced 16-4-8 offers liquid formula with balanced NPK ratio for quick nutrient absorption.
• Scotts Triple Action combines fertilization with weed control and crabgrass prevention in one convenient application.
• Pennington Full Season provides four months of continuous feeding with concentrated nitrogen and soil-improving microorganisms.

Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food Fertilizer for All Grass Types (5,000 sq. ft.)

When you’re seeking a reliable, all-purpose fertilizer that works effectively across different grass varieties, Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food stands out as an excellent choice for homeowners managing medium-sized lawns. This 12.5-pound bag covers 5,000 square feet, making it perfect for typical residential properties. The formula feeds and strengthens your grass while building deep, robust root systems that improve your lawn’s ability to absorb water and nutrients compared to unfed turf. You’ll appreciate the convenience of applying this fertilizer to either wet or dry grass, giving you flexibility in your lawn care schedule. The product protects against future problems while working on any grass type.

Best For: Homeowners with medium-sized lawns up to 5,000 square feet who want a versatile, all-purpose fertilizer that works on any grass type and offers flexible application timing.

Pros:

• Works effectively on all grass types, making it versatile for different lawn varieties
• Can be applied to either wet or dry grass, providing scheduling flexibility
• Builds strong, deep root systems that improve water and nutrient absorption compared to unfed lawns

Cons:

• Limited coverage area of 5,000 square feet may require multiple bags for larger properties
• Does not specify the exact nutrient ratio or analysis numbers for informed fertilizer selection
• Lacks targeted solutions for specific lawn problems like weeds, pests, or disease control

Scotts Green Max Lawn Food, Lawn Fertilizer Plus Iron Supplement (5,000 sq. ft.)

Scotts Green Max Lawn Food stands out as the ideal choice for homeowners who need rapid lawn transformation, particularly when iron deficiency creates yellowing or pale grass conditions. This dual-action fertilizer contains 5% iron supplement, which accelerates the greening process and delivers visible results within three days of application. You’ll appreciate its versatility, as it works effectively on any grass type during spring, summer, or fall seasons. The 16.67-pound bag covers 5,000 square feet, making it perfect for small to medium-sized lawns that need quick color enhancement and root strengthening benefits for improved durability.

Best For: Homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns who need rapid greening results, especially those dealing with iron deficiency that causes yellowing or pale grass conditions.

Pros:

• Fast-acting formula delivers visible greening results within 3 days of application
• Dual-action fertilizer with 5% iron supplement strengthens roots while enhancing color
• Versatile application works on any grass type during spring, summer, or fall seasons

Cons:

• Risk of lawn burn if applied incorrectly or during high temperature conditions
• Short-term greening effects may require frequent reapplication for sustained results
• Strong odor that can linger after application

Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Fertilizer (12,000 sq. ft.)

Fall lawn care becomes considerably easier when you choose a fertilizer specifically formulated for autumn applications and cooler weather conditions. Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Fertilizer delivers essential nutrients that help your grass recover from summer stress, drought damage, and heavy foot traffic. This specialized formula promotes deep root development, which strengthens your lawn’s foundation and prepares it for winter dormancy. You can apply this versatile fertilizer to both wet and dry grass, making timing flexible around weather conditions. Each 32.3-pound bag covers up to 12,000 square feet, providing excellent value for larger properties while ensuring your lawn emerges healthier and more vibrant next spring.

Best For: Homeowners with large lawns (up to 12,000 sq. ft.) who want to strengthen their grass after summer stress and prepare it for winter with a flexible application schedule.

Pros:

• Can be applied to both wet and dry lawns, providing flexibility around weather conditions
• Covers a large area (12,000 sq. ft.) with one 32.3 lb bag, offering good value for extensive properties
• Specifically formulated for fall application to promote deep root development and recovery from summer damage

Cons:

• Only suitable for fall application, limiting its year-round usefulness
• Large bag size may be excessive for smaller lawns under 12,000 sq. ft.
• Requires proper timing in fall season to achieve optimal results

Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action Weed Killer and Lawn Fertilizer (4,000 sq. ft.)

Homeowners dealing with stubborn weeds alongside thin, lackluster grass will find an effective three-in-one solution in this extensive lawn treatment product. Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action combines weed control, crabgrass prevention, and grass feeding into one comprehensive application that saves time and effort. You’ll see results against broadleaf weeds like dandelions, clover, and dollarweed, while the formula simultaneously prevents crabgrass for up to four months. This versatile product works on eight different grass types, including Kentucky bluegrass, Bermudagrass, and tall fescue. Apply the 11.31-pound bag on wet grass using a Scotts spreader, then water after 24 hours to activate the pre-emergent protection.

Best For: Homeowners with broadleaf weed problems who want to control existing weeds, prevent crabgrass, and fertilize their lawn in a single application.

Pros:

• Three-in-one formula saves time by combining weed control, crabgrass prevention, and lawn fertilization in one application
• Provides up to 4 months of crabgrass prevention while controlling multiple broadleaf weeds like dandelions, clover, and dollarweed
• Compatible with eight different grass types including Kentucky bluegrass, Bermudagrass, tall fescue, and others

Cons:

• Requires specific application conditions (wet lawn) and timing when dandelions are actively growing for optimal effectiveness
• People and pets must stay off treated areas until dust settles, limiting lawn access temporarily
• 24-hour waiting period required before watering, which may be inconvenient for some homeowners

Simple Lawn Solutions Advanced 16-4-8 Balanced NPK Liquid Fertilizer (32 Ounce)

Liquid fertilizers deliver nutrients directly to your grass roots, making Simple Lawn Solutions Advanced 16-4-8 Balanced NPK Liquid Fertilizer an excellent choice for gardeners seeking rapid results across diverse lawn types. This ready-to-use formula contains 16% nitrogen for enhanced chlorophyll production, 4% phosphorus for strong root development, and 8% potassium for overall plant health. The added seaweed and fish ingredients provide natural nutrients that support vigorous growth in Bermuda, St. Augustine, Zoysia, and other popular grass varieties. You’ll appreciate the convenient sprayer design that guarantees even distribution, though proper watering after application remains essential for ideal nutrient absorption and preventing potential grass burning.

Best For: Homeowners with established lawns who want rapid greening results and easy application across various grass types including Bermuda, St. Augustine, Zoysia, and other popular varieties.

Pros:

• Ready-to-use liquid formula with convenient sprayer provides quick nutrient delivery and even distribution without mixing required
• Balanced 16-4-8 NPK ratio with added seaweed and fish ingredients promotes rapid greening, strong root development, and overall plant health
• Compatible with all major grass types and manufactured in the USA by an experienced family-owned business with 25 years in the turf industry

Cons:

• Risk of lawn damage and grass burning if over-applied, requiring careful application to avoid harming the lawn
• Requires adequate watering after application for optimal nutrient absorption, adding an extra step to the process
• Some users report inconsistent results and lack of clear guidance on supplemental nutrients needed for complete lawn care

GreenView Fall Lawn Food – 16 lb. Bag – Covers 5,000 sq. ft.

Preparing your lawn for winter’s harsh conditions requires strategic nutrient timing, and GreenView Fall Lawn Food delivers precisely what cool-season grasses need during autumn’s critical growth period. This 22-0-10 NPK granular fertilizer provides eight weeks of continuous feeding, restoring essential nutrients depleted by summer’s heat and drought stress. The high nitrogen content promotes vigorous root development, while potassium strengthens grass against freezing temperatures and disease pressure. You’ll appreciate how this 16-pound bag covers 5,000 square feet efficiently, making application straightforward for medium-sized lawns. The fertilizer works across all actively growing grass types, building deeper root systems that enhance water absorption and nutrient uptake for spectacular spring green-up.

Best For: Homeowners with medium-sized lawns (up to 5,000 sq. ft.) who want to strengthen their grass’s root system and prepare it for winter while ensuring vigorous spring growth.

Pros:

• Provides 8 weeks of continuous feeding with a high-nitrogen 22-0-10 formula that builds stronger root systems for winter protection
• Works effectively on all actively growing grass types and covers a substantial 5,000 square feet per 16-pound bag
• Highly rated by customers (4.6/5 stars) and promotes rapid spring green-up by improving water and nutrient absorption

Cons:

• Contains no phosphorus (0% in NPK ratio), which may not address lawns with phosphorus deficiencies
• Only suitable for actively growing grass, limiting application timing to specific seasonal windows
• Requires proper timing in fall application, making it less flexible than year-round fertilizer options

Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard Lawn Food with Insect Control (5,000 sq. ft.)

When summer heat stresses your lawn while insects threaten its health, Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard Lawn Food with Insect Control delivers dual protection in a single application. This 13.35-pound bag covers 5,000 square feet, effectively killing ants, armyworms, chinch bugs, crickets, fleas, grasshoppers, spiders, and ticks while strengthening your grass against drought conditions. You’ll appreciate its compatibility with all grass types and straightforward application process on dry lawns during summer months. After spreading with recommended settings of 4½ for broadcast spreaders or 8½ for drop spreaders, simply water thoroughly and avoid additional pest treatments for one week. With 7,963 customers rating it 4.5 stars, this product proves its effectiveness in maintaining healthy, resilient lawns.

Best For: Homeowners with all grass types who need to combat summer insect infestations while simultaneously feeding and strengthening their lawn against heat and drought stress.

Pros:

• Dual-action formula combines fertilization and insect control in one application, saving time and effort
• Effective against 8 different types of common lawn pests including ants, fleas, ticks, and chinch bugs
• High customer satisfaction with 4.5-star rating from nearly 8,000 reviews and proven effectiveness across all grass types

Cons:

• Requires waiting one week before applying any other pest or weed control treatments, limiting flexibility
• Must be applied to completely dry lawn and watered afterward, requiring specific weather conditions
• At 13.35 pounds for 5,000 square feet coverage, larger properties will need multiple bags increasing cost

Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed3, Weed Killer Plus Lawn Fertilizer (5,000 sq. ft.)

Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed3 stands out as the ideal solution for homeowners battling persistent weeds while maintaining a lush, healthy lawn. This dual-purpose product eliminates over 50 common weeds, including stubborn dandelions, clover, and plantain, while simultaneously nourishing your grass with essential nutrients. The innovative WeedGrip Technology targets both visible weeds and hidden threats that haven’t emerged yet, ensuring thorough control across your entire 5,000-square-foot coverage area. You’ll achieve superior results by applying this 14.29-pound treatment when temperatures range between 60°F and 90°F, ensuring your lawn is wet beforehand for proper adherence. Remember to keep family and pets away until dust settles, and avoid watering for 24 hours after application.

Best For: Homeowners with large lawns (up to 5,000 sq. ft.) who want to tackle weed problems and fertilize their grass in a single application, particularly those with compatible grass types like Bermudagrass, Bluegrass, Fescue, or Zoysiagrass.

Pros:

• Dual-action formula eliminates over 50 weed types while fertilizing the lawn, saving time and effort with one application
• WeedGrip Technology targets both visible weeds and hidden threats that haven’t emerged yet for comprehensive control
• Covers a substantial 5,000 square feet with just 14.29 pounds of product, making it cost-effective for larger properties

Cons:

• Not compatible with several grass types including St. Augustinegrass, Bentgrass, and Carpetgrass, limiting its use for some homeowners
• Requires specific weather conditions (60°F-90°F) and timing restrictions, including no watering for 24 hours and keeping pets/people off the lawn
• Application must be done on a wet lawn but cannot be followed by rain or watering for 24 hours, creating a narrow window for proper use

Pennington Full Season Lawn FERT 4M 32-0-5 RF 3/11.2LB

Busy homeowners who want maximum results with minimal effort will find Pennington Full Season Lawn Fertilizer 32-0-5 delivers exceptional convenience through its single-application design. This polymer-coated formula slowly releases nitrogen for up to four months, eliminating the need for repeated fertilizing throughout the growing season. The 32-0-5 ratio provides concentrated nitrogen for vigorous growth, while 5% iron content promotes deep green coloration that enhances your lawn’s visual appeal. You’ll cover up to 4,000 square feet with this 11.2-pound bag, making it cost-effective for medium-sized properties. Natural beneficial microorganisms included in the blend revitalize soil health, supporting long-term grass health and root development.

Best For: Busy homeowners with medium-sized lawns who want a convenient, single-application fertilizer that provides season-long nutrition and deep green color with minimal maintenance effort.

Pros:

• One application lasts an entire growing season (up to 4 months), saving time and effort compared to multiple fertilizer applications
• Contains 5% iron for enhanced deep green coloration and polymer-coated urea for slow, steady nutrient release
• Includes natural beneficial microorganisms that improve soil health and support long-term grass development

Cons:

• Not available for purchase in Hawaii and South Dakota, limiting accessibility for some customers
• Requires specific timing and conditions for application (actively growing turf, avoiding heavy rain) which may complicate scheduling
• Higher upfront cost compared to basic fertilizers, though this may be offset by the season-long coverage

Scotts Turf Builder Starter Food for New Grass Ready-Spray (32 oz.)

New lawn enthusiasts who want rapid, thick grass establishment will find Scotts Turf Builder Starter Food for New Grass Ready-Spray perfectly suited for their needs. This 32-ounce liquid fertilizer covers 600 square feet, delivering essential nutrients that promote quicker, thicker growth for all grass types. You’ll appreciate the convenient ready-to-spray formula that connects directly to your garden hose, allowing simultaneous feeding and watering for improved seeding results. Apply when seeding, then follow with three additional applications once seedlings emerge, spacing them one week apart for ideal root establishment and enhanced growth speed. With over 11,000 customer ratings averaging 4.4 stars, this starter fertilizer consistently outperforms generic alternatives, ensuring your new lawn achieves the lush, healthy appearance you desire.

Best For: New lawn enthusiasts and homeowners who want rapid, thick grass establishment when seeding, installing sod, or overseeding existing lawns.

Pros:

• Convenient ready-to-spray formula connects directly to garden hose for simultaneous feeding and watering
• Specifically formulated to promote quicker and thicker growth with strong root establishment for all grass types
• Highly rated by customers with 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 11,000 reviews, consistently outperforming generic alternatives

Cons:

• Limited coverage area of only 600 square feet per 32-ounce bottle may require multiple purchases for larger lawns
• Requires multiple applications with specific timing (initial application plus three follow-ups spaced one week apart)
• Liquid formula may be less cost-effective compared to granular alternatives for extensive lawn areas

Factors to Consider When Choosing Fertilizer for Grass

When I’m selecting the right fertilizer for my lawn, I consider several key factors that directly impact grass health and growth success. The compatibility between fertilizer formulation and my specific grass type, whether cool-season or warm-season varieties, determines nutrient uptake efficiency. I also evaluate the NPK ratio requirements, ideal application timing for my region’s seasons, total coverage area needs, and whether granular or liquid forms better suit my lawn care routine.

Grass Type Compatibility

Since different grass varieties possess distinct nutritional requirements, selecting a compatible fertilizer becomes essential for achieving ideal lawn health and appearance. I recommend choosing fertilizers with NPK ratios specifically formulated for your grass type, whether you’re growing Bermudagrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, or Tall Fescue. These specialized formulations enhance growth, color vibrancy, and disease resistance for particular varieties.

While multi-grass fertilizers offer versatility for mixed lawns, they won’t optimize species-specific health like targeted products will. Using incompatible fertilizers can cause poor growth, discoloration, or damage, particularly when nutrient levels exceed your grass’s tolerance. I also suggest verifying that your chosen fertilizer supports your lawn’s current growth stage, whether you’re nurturing new seedlings or maintaining established turf.

NPK Ratio Analysis

Three essential numbers on every fertilizer package reveal the precise nutrient composition that’ll determine your lawn’s success or failure. The NPK ratio displays nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium percentages, each serving distinct purposes in grass development. Nitrogen promotes lush, green foliage and vigorous growth, making high-nitrogen formulas like 32-0-5 perfect for spring applications when you want rapid green-up. Phosphorus strengthens root systems, particularly vital for newly seeded lawns that need strong foundational growth. Potassium enhances disease resistance and drought tolerance, helping your grass withstand environmental stresses throughout the season. I recommend balanced ratios like 10-10-10 for general lawn maintenance, as they provide extensive nutrition for most grass types. Understanding these ratios helps you match fertilizer to your lawn’s specific needs and growth stage.

Seasonal Application Timing

Timing your fertilizer applications correctly transforms an average lawn into a thriving, resilient carpet of green grass. I recommend fall applications as your most essential feeding period, since they promote vigorous root development while helping your lawn recover from summer stress and prepare for winter dormancy. Spring fertilizing stimulates growth after dormancy breaks, supporting early greening and enhancing nutrient absorption during active growth phases. Summer applications should focus on heat and drought resilience, with insect control options maintaining lawn health during peak pest activity. I’ve found that applying fertilizer when grass actively grows, typically between 60°F to 90°F, maximizes nutrient absorption and effectiveness for best results.

Coverage Area Requirements

When calculating your lawn’s fertilizer needs, accurate coverage area measurements become the foundation for successful feeding programs that deliver consistent, healthy results. I recommend measuring your lawn’s total square footage before selecting any fertilizer product, as coverage varies greatly between brands and formulations. You’ll find fertilizers covering anywhere from 4,000 to 12,000 square feet, which directly impacts how many bags you’ll need for complete application. For smaller lawns, I suggest choosing fertilizers designed for approximately 5,000 square feet, ensuring you provide adequate nutrition without purchasing excess product. Always check the label’s specific coverage information, as some formulations target large areas while others work better for compact spaces, affecting your overall cost-effectiveness and application success.

Granular Vs Liquid Forms

Choosing between granular and liquid fertilizers represents one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your lawn’s feeding program, as each form delivers nutrients through distinctly different mechanisms that affect timing, coverage, and overall results.

Granular fertilizers excel at providing slow-release nutrition over extended periods, making them perfect for long-term lawn maintenance and consistent feeding schedules. I recommend granular forms for larger lawns since they cover more area per application and resist washing away during rainfall.

Liquid fertilizers deliver immediate results, greening grass rapidly through quick nutrient absorption that’s ideal for addressing problem areas or seasonal shifts. However, they require mixing with water, frequent reapplication after heavy rain, and careful spraying techniques to guarantee even coverage across your entire lawn surface.

Slow Vs Fast Release

Beyond selecting the right form for your fertilizer application, understanding nutrient release rates will determine how effectively you feed your grass throughout the growing season. Fast-release fertilizers deliver nutrients within days, making them perfect when you need immediate greening or must address nutrient deficiencies quickly. However, slow-release options gradually supply nutrients over weeks to months, reducing leaching risks while providing consistent nourishment that supports long-term lawn health. I recommend slow-release fertilizers for most situations because they require fewer applications throughout the season, saving you time and effort. Keep in mind that environmental factors like soil temperature and moisture affect slow-release products, while fast-release fertilizers work consistently regardless of conditions.

Additional Pest Control Features

Modern fertilizers offer an impressive advantage by combining essential nutrients with targeted pest control capabilities, eliminating common lawn invaders like ants, crickets, and ticks in a single application. I recommend choosing these dual-action products because they simplify your lawn care routine, reducing the need for multiple treatments throughout the growing season. When selecting pest control fertilizers, you’ll find specific formulations designed for different purposes—some kill existing insects immediately, while others provide extended prevention against future infestations. Timing your application correctly is vital for maximum effectiveness, so I suggest applying when pests are actively growing and conditions favor nutrient absorption. This integrated approach creates stronger grass that naturally resists pest damage and maintains better overall health.

Soil Condition Assessment

Why does understanding your soil’s current condition matter so much for fertilizer success? Because your soil’s unique characteristics determine exactly which nutrients your grass can access and absorb effectively. I recommend starting with a thorough soil test that measures pH levels, since grass thrives best in the 6.0 to 7.0 range where nutrients remain readily available. You’ll also discover your soil’s nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels, which guides you toward fertilizers that address specific deficiencies rather than guessing. Don’t overlook soil texture evaluation, as sandy soils drain quickly and need frequent fertilization, while clay soils retain nutrients longer. Finally, check your organic matter content and any potential contaminants that could affect both plant health and environmental safety.

On a final note

I’ve provided you with ten excellent fertilizer options that’ll transform your lawn into the lush, green space you’re envisioning. Whether you need basic nutrition, weed control, or seasonal protection, there’s a fertilizer here that matches your specific needs. Remember to take into account your grass type, soil conditions, and application timing when making your selection. With the right fertilizer and consistent care, you’ll achieve that beautiful, healthy lawn you’ve been working toward.