15 Best Organic Lawn Fertilizer
Making the transition from synthetic to organic lawn fertilizer is quite a massive, ground-breaking, yet much-needed move for true garden lovers. The right type of organic fertilizer will provide all important nutrients to the soil without damaging your grass, not to mention the high safety level to the environment and humans.
If you want a healthy, lush, cared-for lawn for your home, an organic lawn fertilizer that is best suitable for long-term use is what you need to consider. To save you a headache from looking up where to start and what to look for, I have compiled a starter pack of organic lawn fertilizer.
In combination with acceptable gardening practices, the organic lawn fertilizers endorsed in this article hopefully will make your ideal lawn no longer a far-fetched dream. What more can you ask for? Let’s jump right in!
Several Things You Need To Know About Organic Lawn Fertilizer
Before we come to the best organic lawn fertilizers, let’s break down the philosophy behind this term to discover its mesmerizing impact.
What Is Organic Lawn Fertilizer?
Although organic lawn fertilizers do not have a concrete definition, they are usually derived from animal waste, human excreta, vegetable matter, manure, etc.
Organic fertilizer is another way to help add the essential nutrients to help the plants better and boost synergy for the underground’s complementary living components, such as microbes, to assist the plants in growing.
Pros And Cons Of Organic Lawn Fertilizers
There are numerous ways to increase the soil’s fertility. However, what makes organic lawn fertilizers better than those fast-acting or more affordable chemical base substances?
I fully understand that, and actually, it can take a day to talk about the reasons people should use organic fertilizers for the lawn.
It goes without saying that organic lawn fertilizers also have some cons worth noticing. Here’s how:
Pros:
1. Safer For Health And The Environment:
While most lawn chemical treatments have been proven safe, I know that you tend to avoid your lawn for days after applying it.
Imagine how the organic substitutes will set you free from these obscure worries, knowing that you have lower exposure to chemicals, not only you but also your pets and the beloved ones.
There is no doubt that organic lawn fertilizers are way more environmentally friendly and far less likely to leave a damaging impact on the surrounding environment.
2. More Long-lasting, and Multi Impacts on The Soil:
Using organic fertilizers may not give instant, gratifying results that you can see with your own eyes right away, yet the slow-release formula will make soil quality improve as time goes by.
Organic lawn fertilizers help the ecosystem of your lawn flourish, not diminish. Chemically composed fertilizers inherently strip what your lawn needs; this includes microbes and earthworms.
Your grass may look healthy after a chemical fertilizer, but chances are, that’s only skin deep, as it’s easily susceptible to pests or disease. Organic treatments enhance your soil and enable it to keep its natural nutrients.
Thus, it improves the soil structure and increases their capability of holding water and nutrients, much better than chemical alternatives.
3. Better The Plant’s Health:
Organic treatment doesn’t release the nutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) as fast as the conventional chemical-based substances. Yet, this is great news that you should consider.
The slow-release formula allows the root to adapt to the supplements gradually. This makes the roots stronger and lessens the hazards of nutrient overloading, resulting in burning your plants.
Cons:
1. Takes a Longer Time to Give Visible Results Than Chemical Counterparts:
The primary limitation of organic lawn fertilizer lies in the low level of Nitrogen and slow-release formula. This is because the nutrients in organic fertilizers for lawns are slowly released through microbial activity taking place in the soil.
It stands to reason that when soil microbes are not active, which may be caused by external factors, the grass may not respond to the applied organic lawn fertilizers, making it show little or no difference after fertilization, even for months.
2. Might Require a Fertilizer Schedule and Accompanied Control Methods to Undesired Plants:
You probably need more time and effort to maintain the lawn, such as recognizing its needs, weighing out the right amount of fertilizers, and organizing a holistic care schedule.
When you switch from chemically composed fertilizers to organic substitutes, weeds and grubs might appear, previously subdued by chemically dependent grass.
Therefore, you may need to adopt new control methods (organic treatments, of course) that you might have never thought of before.
3. Prices Are Relatively High Compared to Inorganic Substitutes.
Without any doubt, organic fertilizer can do “the magic” to your lawn, making it greener and much healthier. Yet, when it comes to this all-natural material, the price might be fairly high.
However, this will pay off in the long run when you understand that the ultimate goal for doing this is to create a sustainable lawn that embraces a healthy ecosystem and can thrive independently.
What Are The Best Organic Lawn Fertilizers?
Let’s begin our “best organic lawn fertilizer” search with a grasp of my recommended fertilizers.
Speaking of fertilizers, Espoma is the top all-natural fertilizer queen with excellent general-purpose plant food.
We also have our slow-release nitrogen fertilizer from Milorganite that has years of experience in growing beautiful plants. And the exclusive distributor TeraGanix delivers a more balanced solution for the soil through fertilizer.
There are indeed a lot of good choices. But, I am here to help you find the most suitable ones as follows:
- Best Overall: Espoma Plant Tone Original All Natural Organic Lawn Fertilizer
“All-round lawn food. 100% organic. Packed with 15 essential nutrients. Exclusive bio-tone microbes. Deep-rooted nourishment.” - Best Budget: Milorganite 0636 Nitrogen Organic Lawn Fertilizer
“Budget-friendly NPK 6-4-0 formula. Added iron for a deep green. Favored by gardeners and golf courses. Can cover up to 2.500 sq. ft.” - Best For Soil Enhancement: MARPHYL Eco-friendly Marine Phytoplankton Liquid Organic Lawn Fertilizer
“Naturally sourced marine phytoplankton. Rich nutrient supplement. No preservatives. Zero threat to the environment.” - Best Probiotic Formula: Teraganix Non-GMI Certified Microbial Inoculant Organic Lawn Fertilizer
“All-natural probiotic formula. Non-GMO. Certified organic. Strengthen lawn health and grass growth.” - Best Ready-To-Spray: Medina Ready-to-spray Organic Lawn Fertilizer
“12-4-8 ready-to-spray formula. Quickly absorbed by plants. Fast visible result. Cover up to 4.000 sq.” - Best For New Grass: Simple Lawn Solutions Advanced Concentrated Spray Organic Lawn Fertilizer
“Made for instant use. Balanced 16-4-8 N-P-K. Supplements with seaweed and fish. Nourished from roots. Workable for all grass types.” - Best Phosphorus-Free Fertilizer: Simple Lawn Solutions Superior Concentrated Spray Organic Lawn Fertilizer
“Phosphorus-free nutritional fertilizer. Enhance weather resistance or treat nitrogen and potassium deficiencies. Applicable to all grass types.” - Best For Spring Gardening: Espoma Spring Booster Organic Lawn Fertilizer
“Springtime organic fertilizer. Rich Nitrogen supplement. Fortified with calcium. Booster for grass growth and disease resistance.” - Best For Summer Gardening: Espoma Summer Organic Lawn Fertilizer
“A must-have for summer fertilizing. Nitrogen booster. 2% extra non-staining iron. Make sunburnt grass turn green.” - Best For Fall Gardening: Espoma Organic Fall Winterizer Organic Lawn Fertilizer
“Long-lasting visible impacts. Potash added for more nutrients. Work great for all grass types.” - Best For Multi-Purpose: Neptune’s Harvest Kelp Meal Multi-Purpose Organic Lawn Fertilizer
“Purely dried organic Rock Weed. A versatile gardening partner. Phosphorus-free. Highly rich in minerals and nutrients.” - Best For All Seasons: Espoma Organic All Season Organic Lawn Fertilizer
“Usable all year round. 100% Organic. No hazard guaranteed. Long-lasting nourishment.” - Milorganite Garden Care Organic Lawn Fertilizer
“NPK 6-4-0 formula. Packed with 15 essential nutrients. Added iron for a deep green. Favored by gardeners and golf courses.” - Jobe’s Organic 09524 Granular Organic Lawn Fertilizer
“A balanced 4-4-4 NPK formula. Fast improvement for young/ weak plants. Budget-friendly option. Wide range of size options for the medium-small garden.” - The Andersons 7-1-2 Premium Organic Lawn Fertilizer
“OMRI certified. Safe for kids, and pets. Made from plant materials. No-burning slow-release organic fertilizer.”
Best Organic Lawn Fertilizers Comparison Table 2023
Let’s take a look at the comparison chart of the15 best organic lawn fertilizers that have been introduced in the previous section:
Top 15 Organic Lawn Fertilizers Reviews 2023
Choosing the best organic lawn fertilizer is no easy task as there are many alternatives available for various purposes and usages. Let’s drill into my top 15 best organic lawn fertilizers right away!
Espoma Plant Tone Original All Natural Organic Lawn Fertilizer
(Best Overall)
Packed in a bag 4 pounds each, Espoma Plant Tone Original All Natural Organic Lawn Fertilizer is a premium, complex blend regarded as “perfect all-natural and organic plant food”.
The fertilizer mixture is nothing but a great companion for those who adopt organic gardening.
Each bag contains a variety of living microbes and 15 essential nutrients, making it an extraordinary starter plant food for all sorts of flowers, vegetables, trees, and shrubs.
What’s more, Espoma Plant Tone Organic Fertilizer was developed with a long-lasting, slow-release feeding with Espoma’s exclusive bio-tone microbes.
This fertilizer from Espoma is genuinely an all-natural and environmentally-friendly one, as it contains 100% organic, naturally derived ingredients will no fillers, sludges, or hazardous ingredients.
What more can you ask for from an all-natural, environmentally safe plant tone that guarantees vibrant blooms and deeper green foliage for your garden?
Key Features
- Can be applied for all-purpose, and targets (flowers, vegetables, trees, and shrubs).
- Slow-release formula with exclusive bio-tone microbes that delivers long-lasting results.
- Supplies 15 essential nutrients needed for plants.
- 100% natural & organic ingredients that don’t cause any hazards to the surroundings.
Pros
- Feeds the soil for quite a time.
- Contains microbes that stay alive for a year after opening the package.
- Noticeable effects boost plant growth and nourish the root system.
- Easy-to-use.
- Detailed instructions.
Cons
- Has a strong, unpleasant smell for the first few days after application.
- Takes some time to see visible effects
- A little bit pricey.
Product Specifications:
Brand | Espoma |
Coverage | N/A |
Usage | Either mix the fertilizer with the soil or apply it to the top of the soil. |
Target | All flowers, vegetables, trees, and shrubs. |
Best Time To Use | Trees & Shrubs: Applies in Spring and late Fall.
Flowers and Vegetables: Applies once per month during the growing season |
N-P-K Ratio | 5-3-3 |
Nutrition | Nitrogen (5%), Available Phosphate (3%), Soluble Potash (3%), Calcium (5%), Magnesium (1%), Sulfur (1%), non-plant food ingredients (Colony Forming Unít, Humic Acids (1%), Inert Ingredients (98.9%)) |
You can check out this video for further details on how you can make the best use of this dynamic fertilizer!
Milorganite 0636 Nitrogen Organic Lawn Fertilizer
(Best Budget)
Are you finding a more efficient option for organic care? This Milogranite product is surely perfect for a healthy budget option that you might have been looking for for a while.
Milorganite provides an up to 36 pounds packaged 6-4-0 fertilizer that can cover from basic lawns, shrubs to ornamental plants and vegetables. If you have a big garden that needs to be taken care of, this organic fertilizer is surely what it’s call magic for your land to feed up to 2.500 sq. ft.
The high Nitrogen content encourages plants to grow rapidly in terms of foliage and fruits, which is perfectly suitable for young plants.
Aside from Nitrogen, the heat-dried microbes and 4% non-staining iron embedded in the formulation make this product a well-treat for enhancing your plant’s health. This can result in the plant’s deep greening condition.
Not only brings great effect to the plant, but Milorgarnite is also a good soil enhancer. Specifically, the microorganism is a fine source to enrich your soil.
Key Features
- Nitrogen slow-release formula (6-4-0).
- Contain high iron content.
- Reduces the need for regular watering.
- Save more mowing time for gardeners.
- Can cover up to 2.500 sq. ft.
Pros
- Cost-effective option for a large garden.
- No burning effect if it overdoses.
- Easy to use, spread, and store.
- Can treat a wide range of plants (from lawns, shrubs, flowers, vegetables,…).
Cons
- It takes quite some time to see the result.
- The smell can be quite irritating.
- Hard to find at the local.
Product Specifications:
Brand | Milorgranite |
Coverage | 2.500 sq. ft. |
Usage | Mix with water and sprinkle. |
Target | Lawns, shrubs, trees,… |
Best Time To Use | Any climate |
N-P-K Ratio | 6-4-0 |
Nutrition | Total Nitrogen (6.0%), Total Iron (2.5%), Available Phosphate (4.0%), Available Calcium (1.2%) |
Let’s refer to some additional ideas about how this organic lawn fertilizer can rock your garden here.
MARPHYL Eco-friendly Marine Phytoplankton Liquid Organic Lawn Fertilizer
(Best For Soil Enhancement)
This liquid fertilizer from MARPHYL contains marine phytoplankton, which is particularly sourced from the waters of the Strait of Georgia on the east coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada.
Marine Phytoplankton is microalgae full of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, which provide abundant and diverse nutrition to your lawn. And it is not just for lawns; you can use it for plants, vegetables, flowers, greenhouses, indoor plants, etc.
MARPHYL Liquid Marine Phytoplankton Soil Enhancer is harvested 100% naturally and is non-GMO.
This eco-friendly soil enhancer not only enriches the soil but also naturally promotes the overall growth and health of your plants.
It also provides all sufficient nutrients regarding Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium that help facilitate the circulation of nutrients and boost the root’s growth.
This product is listed by OMRI for organic use in Canada & the USA. It is 100% natural and vegan, so it is completely safe for all gardening and farming lovers.
And there are no time restrictions on returning to your lawn – pets and people alike are safe to be near the fields immediately after application.
Moreover, you do not need to worry that it will run off the soil and contaminate your waterways as it originates from the ocean and is completely safe.
Key Features
- 100% natural, organic (certified for Organic use by OMRI), eco-friendly, non-GMO.
- Harvested from natural, nutritious marine phytoplankton.
- Non-toxic. Doesn’t contain preservatives, pesticide, or fungicide.
Pros
- Suitable for vegans.
- Can be used on lawns and many types of plants, including indoor plants.
- Safe for gardeners, pets, humans.
- The light smell disappears when mixed with water.
- Easy to spread evenly.
Cons
- Rather pricey.
- Might not show immediate, visible effects to some plants.
- Might cause mold or fungus to appear in some rare cases.
Product Specifications:
Brand | MARPHYL |
Coverage | N/A |
Usage | Mix with water and sprinkle. |
Target | Plants, Vegetables, Flowers, Lawns, Trees, Greenhouses, Garden, Indoor Plants, Hydroponics, Shrub,… |
Best Time To Use | Fertilize flowers and vegetables: during the growing season.
Trees and shrubs: during spring and fall months. |
N-P-K Ratio | 5-3-3 |
Nutrition | Nitrogen (0.19%), Phosphorus (0.00096%), Potassium (0.0314%), Calcium (0.042%), Boron (0.00053%), Iron (0.00042%), Magnesium (0.136%). |
Can’t wait to learn more about this impressive product? Then go watch this video for an honest review about this soil enhancer!
Teraganix Non-GMI Certified Microbial Inoculant Organic Lawn Fertilizer
(Best Probiotic Formula)
This all-natural organic probiotic from TeraGanix contains a 100% natural and safe em-1 microbial inoculant.
EM1 is the original and authentic formula developed by Dr. Teruo Higa and is widely sought after by farmers and gardeners worldwide.
This inoculant promises to improve texture and drainage for soils while maintaining the ultimate organic care for your lawn.
This one has 1 million lactic and beneficial bacteria units, which helps improve water quality and eliminate undesirable odors, such as pets, smoke, garbage, or paint smell.
When added to the soil, this organic material will give significant results, ranging from enhanced soil structure to improved root growth and seed sprout. This is why this microbial inoculant is excellent for promoting grass growth and maintaining lawn health.
EM-1 can withstand temperatures of up to 140 degrees. The product is easy to use and easy to store as you just need to store it out of direct sunlight.
According to the manufacturer, 1 gallon out of the bottle will treat approximately 8500 square feet of lawn.
Key Features
- Certified 100% organic, non-GMO.
- Advanced EM-1 probiotic formula.
- Enhances water quality in your ponds or aquariums.
- Super easy to apply.
Pros
- Non-flammable as the formula only has water, molasses, & beneficial bacteria.
- Various purposes: Agricultural usage, household applications, hydroponic use, water conditioning, etc.
- Removes odor such as pet, smoke, garbage,…
- Good fertilizer that can be adopted universally.
Cons
- No real cons.
Product Specifications:
Brand | TeraGanix |
Coverage | N/A |
Usage | Mix with water and sprinkle. |
Target | Can be used for all plants with different uses (household application, agriculture, Hydronics). |
Best Time To Use | N/A |
N-P-K Ratio | N/A |
Nutrition | High-quality probiotic formula with a minimum of 1,000,000 naturally fermented, colony-forming units of beneficial Lactic Acid bacteria, Water and Molasses. |
Want to learn more about the dozen of uses this product has? We’ve got what you need right in this video.
Medina Ready-to-spray Organic Lawn Fertilizer
(Best Ready-to-spray)
Measuring is always one of the biggest concerns when we start our garden care. How much fertilizer should be applied for a good enhancement? Or what is the good ratio fertilizer mixing should we try?
The liquid feature is also a big advance for this product to spread and easily adapted easily. This Medina Ready-to-spray Organic Lawn Fertilizer can cover up to 4.000 sq. ft. by spraying.
Moreover, unlike the conventional slow-release targeting the roots, this organic fertilizer targets foliage. The liquid substance makes the Medina product fast adapted by the plants. Therefore, the visible result can be quite sooner than other granules.
12-4-8 formula is a fine kick start for new plants that not only boost their development, this formula also helps to prevent some conventional illness such as curled leaves or any citrus vein phloem degeneration issues,…
Key Features
- 12-4-8 formulated Lawn feed.
- Quickly absorbed by plants.
- Show fast effects.
- Can cover up to 4.000 sq. ft.
Pros
- Fast feeding results.
- Easy to use, easy to apply.
- Ideal for all lawns and turfgrass
Cons
- Hardly any cons found
Product Specifications:
Brand | Medina |
Coverage | 4.000 sq. ft. |
Usage | Directly use |
Target | All lawns and turfgrass. |
Best Time To Use | During growing season |
N-P-K Ratio | 12-4-8 |
Nutrition | High-quality probiotic formula with a minimum of 1,000,000 naturally fermented, colony-forming units of beneficial Lactic Acid bacteria, Water and Molasses. |
Learn more about when is the best time to apply Medina’s product through this video.
Simple Lawn Solutions Advanced Concentrated Spray Organic Lawn Fertilizer
(Best For New Grass)
This easy-to-use fertilizer by Simple Lawn Solutions is regarded as complete lawn food with a balanced 16-4-8 N-P-K formula.
Not only is this nutritional liquid a perfect mixture of macronutrients needed for your lawn, it also contains other high-quality feed-grade ingredients, but such as seaweed and fish. Such formulation provides pure nutrients in the form of liquid for a healthy, green, lush lawn.
The fertilizer works to promote a hardy root system that contributes to the overall health of lawns.
This lawn fertilizer is designed as a ready-to-use sprayer; hence all you need to do is attach it to your hose, and you are good to go.
It can be used for all grass types, and you don’t have to worry about the uneven application, as this product is not tricky to spray at all.
The only thing you should heed your attention to is watering your lawn sufficiently to absorb the precious nutrients properly.
The bottle contains 3 pounds of liquid fertilizer that is enough for 3,200 square feet of lawn.
Key Features
- 16-4-8 N-P-K formula.
- Nitrogen, phosphorus & potassium nutrients.
- Blended with seaweed and fish.
Pros
- A premium balanced lawn food that nourishes grass from roots.
- Great for every grass type.
- Concentrated formulation.
- Ready to use.
Cons
- Noticeable differences may take time.
- The sprayer sometimes has problems.
Product Specifications:
Brand | Simple Lawn Solutions |
Coverage | 3,200 sq. |
Usage | Mix with water and spray. |
Target | All grass types, namely Bermuda, Buffalo, Centipede, Florida Palmetto, St. Augustine, Zoysia, Bahia, Fescue, Ryegrass & Kentucky Bluegrass, |
Best Time To Use | N/A |
N-P-K Ratio | 16-4-8 |
Nutrition | Complete NPK lawn food that contains added seaweed and fish. |
Check out this video for a close-up of this product and an honest sharing from this lawn caretaker.
Simple Lawn Solutions Superior Concentrated Spray Organic Lawn Fertilizer
(Best Phosphorus-Free Fertilizer)
This product from Simple Lawn Solutions is exactly what you need for a phosphorus-free fertilizer.
It has N-P-K values of 15-0-15, which is perfect for those who only want to pamper their lawn without phosphorus. Just like the human body that needs essential nutrients to survive, your lawn needs this fertilizer when it is deficient in Nitrogen and potassium.
This one is also added with humic acid, which plays an indispensable role in intensifying green and growth. This element helps condition soil as well as accelerating the transfer of food throughout the plant cell.
Because of the feed-grade ingredients it has, this fertilizer works great with sandy soils and all grass types.
Not only does it treat nutrient deficiencies, but this fertilizer also hits the spot when it comes to improving lawn resistance to heat and cold.
Each bag has 3.29 pounds of fertilizer that can treat an area of 3,200 sq. ft.
Key Features
- 15-0-15 N-P-K formula; phosphate-free lawn food.
- Contains humic acid, sulfur, and potash.
- Contains high-quality feed-grade ingredients.
- Liquid substance that is quick and convenient to apply.
Pros
- Maintain lawn health or treat lawn nitrogen and potassium deficiencies.
- Improves resistance to heat & cold.
- Great for sandy soils.
- Can be used on all grass types.
Cons
- Sprayer sometimes does not work.
- A bit pricey.
Product Specifications:
Brand | Simple Lawn Solutions |
Coverage | 3,200 sq. ft. |
Usage | Mix with water and spray. |
Target | All grass types, some of which are Bermuda, St. Augustine, Zoysia, Buffalo, Centipede, Palmetto & Bluegrass, etc. |
Best Time To Use | Any time |
N-P-K Ratio | 15-0-15 |
Nutrition | Nitrogen and Potassium blended with Humic Acid |
Here comes an informative video where this reviewer shares his thoughts about testing this product by Simple Lawn Solutions on his lawn!
Espoma Spring Booster Organic Lawn Fertilizer
(Best For Spring Gardening)
If you are looking for complete lawn food to use in the spring months, give Organic Lawn Booster Fertilizer from Espoma a try!
This all-natural fertilizer that comes in an 8-0-0 NPK formula is another worth checking product launched by Espoma.
It is made from feather meal, pasteurized poultry manure & gypsum, which is processed and refined into an 8-0-0 formulation that provides essential nutrients to your beloved lawn.
Stinky as this fertilizer may smell when you first lay it down, it is fortified with Calcium and elements derived from organic matters, which is extremely helpful for soil and grass development.
The formula that this fertilizer has is environmentally friendly and completely safe for pets and kids as well. Each bag contains 30lbs of granules, which is sufficient for a 5,000 sq. ft. of lawn.
Key Features
- Formulation developed for application in the spring.
- Nutrients extracted from feather meal, pasteurized poultry manure & gypsum.
- Can cover up to 5,000 sq.
- Eco-friendly, safe for humans and pets.
Pros
- Added Calcium that promotes lawn health and resistance to disease.
- High level of slow-release Nitrogen that encourages spring growth.
- Generally require less mowing.
Cons
- Pungent smell that may last for a day or so.
Product Specifications:
Brand | Espoma |
Coverage | 5,000 sq. |
Usage | Apply directly to dry mowed lawns, and water the lawns lightly after the application if it does not rain within 24 hours. |
Target | For use on all lawns, including sodded and newly seeded ones |
Best Time To Use | Used in the early Spring:
• Cool-season Grass – Apply in February, March, or April • Warm-season Grass – Apply in January or February |
N-P-K Ratio | 8-0-0 |
Nutrition | Total Nitrogen (8.0%), Ammoniacal Nitrogen (0.1%), Other Water Soluble Nitrogen (1.2%), Water Insoluble Nitrogen (6.7%), Calcium (3.0%), Sulfur (1.0%). |
You can watch this video for an overview of application guidelines for this product.
Espoma Summer Organic Lawn Fertilizer
(Best For Summer Gardening)
Espoma has introduced another fertilizer specially formulated for summer gardening called Espoma Organic Summer Fertilizer.
Fundamentally, this nutritional lawn food is derived from feather meal poultry, manure iron oxide, and elemental sulfur, which make up complete organic lawn care.
It has an 8-0-1 NPK formula, which is expected to stimulate growth and yield noticeable results thanks to the high nitrogen level.
This product also comes in handy when it comes to deficient soils that need a quick nitrogen boost.
The fact it contains bio-tone microbes will boost the health of the ecosystem in the soil, making it a healthier environment for grass to grow.
With 2% non-staining iron in the formula, this summer lawn fertilizer aims to turn yellow lawn into the nice-to-have green despite the summer’s heat.
So if you need a gardening partner to fight off the heat this summer, Espoma Summer Fertilizer is here to help!
Key Features
- Formulation specially developed for summertime.
- Content made from meal poultry, manure iron oxide, and elemental sulfur.
- Contains Bio Tone microbes and 2% non-staining iron.
Pros
- Non-burning, which is perfect for use in the summer.
- Restores the deep green color of the grass.
- Rapid and long-lasting improvement on the lawn.
- Environmentally friendly; safe for kids and pets.
Cons
- Unpleasant smell lingers when it’s first applied.
- Hard clumps in some rare cases.
Product Specifications:
Brand | Espoma |
Coverage | 5000 sq ft |
Usage | Apply directly to the dry lawn which has just been mowed, and water lightly within 24 hours. |
Target | All lawns, including newly seeded and sodded ones. |
Best Time To Use | Apply in the Early Summer:
• Cool-season Grass – Apply in July or August • Warm-season Grass – Apply in June or July |
N-P-K Ratio | 8-0-1 |
Nutrition | Total Nitrogen (8.0%), Ammoniacal Nitrogen (0.1%), Other Water Soluble Nitrogen (1.2%), Water Insoluble Nitrogen (6.7%), Calcium (1.0%), Sulfur (1.0%), Iron (2.0%), 624 Colony Forming Units per gram. |
Let’s take a look at this video to have some ideas for taking care of your garden throughout this hot summer.
Espoma Organic Fall Winterizer Organic Lawn Fertilizer
(Best For Fall Gardening)
If you are looking for a powerful fertilizer for your lawn this winter, this product from Espoma is something you cannot miss out on!
This lawn food supplies nutrients to keep your lawn strong enough to survive in the dead of winter. It has an 8-0-6 NPK formula, which works perfectly for all types of grass.
The product is added with extra potash, so don’t be surprised if next spring your lawn looks better than ever!
With its content derived from feather meal poultry manure and sulfate of potash, the fertilizer will keep your lawn in good health and maintain its green during the cold winter months.
You can sit back and chill as this all-natural lawn food is safe for your health and the surrounding environment!
It comes in a bag of 30.4 pounds that can cover 5,000 sq. of the lawn.
Key Features
- Formulated for winter gardening.
- Added extra potash.
- 8-0-6 NPK values.
Pros
- Safe to be around after application due to organic ingredients.
- Make real, visible differences to the lawn.
- Non-burning.
Cons
- Strong odor at first, but quickly disappears when the lawn is watered.
Product Specifications:
Brand | Espoma |
Coverage | 5,000 sq. ft. |
Usage | Apply directly to the dry lawn which has been mowed, and water lightly within 24 hours after fertilizing. |
Target | All lawns, including newly seeded and sodded ones. |
Best Time To Use | Apply in the late summer, from September to November |
N-P-K Ratio | 8-0-6 |
Nutrition | Ammoniacal Nitrogen (0.1%), Other Water Soluble Nitrogen (1.2%), Water Insoluble Nitrogen (6.7%), Calcium (1.0%), Sulfur (1.0%), Soluble Potash (5.0%). |
Check out this video for greater details on how to use Espoma Fall Winterizer to help your lawn combat the challenges of the upcoming cold weather of fall.
Neptune’s Harvest Kelp Meal Multi-Purpose Organic Lawn Fertilizer
(Best For Multi-Purpose)
When it comes to all-purpose fertilizer that works beyond lawn care, Neptune’s Harvest Organic Kelp Meal is a top-of-mind solution for many.
This product is derived from dried and ground Rock Weed (belongs to the Ascophyllum Nodosum) from the cold, clean water along the New England coast.
And do you know that Ascophyllum Nodosum is considered the best marine substance for soil enhancement?
More than that, this phosphorus-free product by Neptune’s Harvest is rich in amino acids, minerals, and carbohydrates, all of which contribute to a stronger root system and better plant health.
It has NPK values of 1-0-2 and works great for all types of lawns and plants, both indoor and outdoor.
It can also be incorporated as supplements into the soil, and transplant the beds. Moreover, it can also be considered as composting materials.
Regarded by many customers as a 100% organic and cost-effective solution, this organic kelp meal will condition and generously feed your soil with nutrients, which will ultimately do wonders for your lawn and all plants.
Key Features
- Dried and ground Rock Weed (Ascophyllum Nodosum).
- 1-0-2 NPK values.
- Contains rich nutrients (minerals, amino acids, and carbohydrates) that help develop strong root systems for a healthy plant.
- Contains one of the finest marine plants for agriculture – Ascophyllum Nodosum.
- Budget-friendly option for better soil fertilization and conditioning program.
Pros
- Outstanding nutritional food that is more than just lawn food.
- Non-burning.
- Deep nourishment from soil and roots.
- Highly versatile – can be applied with most fertilizers and soil conditioners.
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than other options.
Product Specifications:
Brand | Neptune’s Harvest |
Coverage | 135 sq. |
Usage | Should be top dressed or directly applied in the soil before planting. |
Target | House plants, vegetables, flowers, gardens, trees, lawns, and containers |
Best Time To Use | N/A |
N-P-K Ratio | 1-0-2 |
Nutrition | Total Nitrogen N (1%), Soluble Potash K20 (2%), Calcium (1%), Magnesium (0.5%), Sulfur (2%) |
This video is exactly what you need for better visualization of this awesome item and its various usages.
Espoma Organic All Season Organic Lawn Fertilizer
(Best For All Seasons)
Espoma EOLF28 Organic All Season Lawn Food can be used all year round, making it the top choice of lawn food for those who don’t want to stock up on various types of seasonal fertilizers.
The fertilizer contains 7.6% slow-release nitrogen derived from feather meal and poultry manure, which means that the soil’s fertilization continues for quite a long time after application.
With an organic formula with zero harmful, harsh chemicals whatsoever, this item will provide your lawn with sufficient nutrients without burning it.
You can sit back and enjoy your peace of mind, knowing that this fertilizer is safe to use around your kids and pets.
It comes in a 28-pound bag, which is enough for 5000 feet of lawn. After each feeding, your lawn will grow as lush as ever and become more resilient over time.
Key Features
- Organic formula with no harmful chemicals, and no burning effect.
- Contains Bio Tone microbes.
- Can cover up to 5,000 sq. ft.
- Applicable for all seasons.
Pros
- Easy to apply.
- Suitable for all year-round applications.
- Pet and kid-safe.
- Eco-friendly.
Cons
- Strong smell might last even for a couple of weeks.
- Clumps might appear.
- A little bit pricey.
Product Specifications:
Brand | Espoma |
Coverage | 5000 sq. ft. |
Usage | – Applies directly to the dry mowed lawn.
– Can use a drop or a spreader for even application. |
Target | All lawns, including newly seeded and sodded ones. |
Best Time To Use | Early Spring, Late Spring, Late Summer, and Fall. |
N-P-K Ratio | 9-0-0 |
Nutrition | 624 Colony Forming Units per gram, Nitrogen (9.0%), Ammoniacal Nitrogen (0.1%), Other Water Soluble Nitrogen (1.3%), Water Insoluble Nitrogen (7.6%), Calcium (1.0%), Sulfur (1.0%). |
You can watch this video to know more about how this product can be your gardening right arm.
Milorganite Garden Care Organic Lawn Fertilizer
This Garden Care Organic Fertilizer is a high nitrogen fertilizer that has an NPK formula of 6-4-0. Due to these low NPK values, the possibility of burning your grass is very low.
This one has all 15 key elements that your lawn needs for vigorous growth and sustainable health. It works well not only with lawns but also with vegetables, trees, and flowers.
Besides the slow-release nitrogen formula, the product comprises 4 percent non-staining iron, which is added for deep green-colored grass.
This organic fertilizer is so safe that golf courses commonly use it all year round for tending the turf and grass.
You can rest assured since this product does not dehydrate tender grass plants, making it an excellent choice for those who take up gardening.
Key Features
- Provides 15 essential elements, and a 4% iron supplement
- Slow-release formula
- NPK ratio of 6-4-0
Pros
- Feeds the soil gradually over time
- Useful for tending garden and golf courses alike
- Can be used any time in the growing season
- Keeps deers away from your garden
- Won’t burn your grass quickly due to low NPK formula
Cons
- A bit expensive.
- Possibility of unpleasant smell at first.
Product Specifications:
Brand | Milorganite |
Coverage | 300-350 sq. |
Usage | Apply the fertilizer to the ground as it is. |
Target | Lawn, Garden, Golf Courses |
Best Time To Use | Any time of the year. |
N-P-K Ratio | 6-4-0 |
Nutrition | Nitrogen (6%), Available Phosphate (4%), Iron (2.5%), Available Calcium (1.2%) |
Are you curious to know more about this budget-friendly fertilizer? Check out this video for reviews on how it performs compared to two other alternatives.
Jobe’s Organic 09524 Granular Organic Lawn Fertilizer
4-4-4 NPK formula is a fast-acting and balanced granular fertilizer that can be applied to a wide range of targets from shrubs, trees to flowers and vegetables.
Made from feather meal, and bone meal, this Jobe’s Organic product also includes multiple beneficial bacteria and fungi that can improve the transfer of nutrients to the plants. Thus, it also helps the tree resist diseases and insects.
The organic fertilizer comes in a granular form that is easy to store and spread. The Jobe’s Organic 09524 Granular Organic Lawn Fertilizer also contains its unique blend of soil microorganisms, making it quite an effective soil feed.
If you are looking for a good treatment for your small garden, this product can be the key! Aside from the 16 pounds package, Jobe’s Organic also provides smaller options such as 4 pounds, or 1.5 pounds which are just enough for a small corner.
Key Features
- Organic granular fertilizer that has fast results for trees, shrubs, flowers,…
- OMRI certified by USDA.
- A balanced 4-4-4 NPK formula.
- Help promote the root growth, improve nutrient absorption,…
Pros
- Fast improvement for young/ weak plants.
- Budget-friendly option.
- Wide range of size options for the medium-small garden.
Cons
- Might attract some animals or insects.
- The smell might be quite obnoxious.
Product Specifications:
Brand | Jobe’s Organic |
Coverage | 210 sq. ft. |
Usage | Apply the fertilizer to the ground and water it. |
Target | Trees, shrubs, flowers, and vegetables |
Best Time To Use | Any time of the year. |
N-P-K Ratio | 4-4-4 |
Nutrition | Nitrogen (4%), Available Phosphate (4%), Soluble Potash (4%), Calcium (8%), Magnesium (0.5%), Sulfur (1.4%) |
You can watch this video for further instructions on how to apply this product.
The Andersons 7-1-2 Premium Organic Lawn Fertilizer
Here’s another premium slow-release organic fertilizer that you might have been looking for.
It can take at least a week to see some result, but it’s worth waiting. The 7-1-2 formula is a juicy treatment for weak plants, and a good soil enhancer.
Thus, this slow-release mixture of soybeans and amino acids is a gentle treat for the ground. You don’t have to worry so much about whether it might burn your lawn if it overdoses.
This Andersons’s fertilizer comes from plant materials that are extremely environment friendly and safe for kids, and your pets. You can apply this product to all types of grass and in any kind of climate.
Key Features
- OMRI certified fertilizer that is safe for kids, and pets.
- Made from plant materials that don’t contain any biosolids, composted waste products, manure, or animal parts.
- Slow-release formula that doesn’t burn your lawn.
- Can be applied to all types of grass, and in any climate.
Pros
- Doesn’t have an as bad odor as other fertilizers derived from chemical or composted waste, manure,…
- Visible results within a week.
- Doesn’t cause any side-effect if you incidentally over-apply the product.
- Easy to apply, and store.
Cons
- A little bit pricey.
Product Specifications:
Brand | The Andersons |
Coverage | 3.700 sq. ft. |
Usage | Apply the fertilizer to the ground as it is. |
Target | Lawn |
Best Time To Use | Any time of the year. |
N-P-K Ratio | 7-1-2 |
Nutrition | Nitrogen (7%), Available Phosphate (1%), Soluble Potash (2%), Amino Acids (48%) |
Let’s hear some tips and tricks of bettering your garden with the Andersons product through this video.
Buying Guide: Which Factors To Consider While Buying Organic Lawn Fertilizer?
Now that we already know our 15 best organic lawn fertilizers like the back of our hand, it is high time we got ourselves familiar with factors that matter when shopping for our fertilizers.
Types Of Fertilizer
If you are wondering whether granular or liquid fertilizer is more suitable for you, take into account each type’s main features.
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Fertilizer Feature: Liquid or Granule?
Liquid Fertilizer
Liquid fertilizer is usually contained in a bottle accompanied by a sprayer, making it ready-to-use, easy to apply, and less likely to distribute unevenly on the ground.
Liquid lawn food has more mobile elements than granular ones, making the good stuff get closer to the grassroots.
Granular Fertilizer
Meanwhile, a granular fertilizer might be a better choice for lawns that need greater nutrition diversity. Compared with granules, liquid fertilizers generally offer fewer nutrients out of the insolubility of some elements.
Granules usually have a slow-release and soil-enhancing formula that feeds the lawn for a long time. You also don’t have to worry that the nutrients will efficiently run off the soil, caused by heavy rain or irrigation.
However, lawns that already achieve nutrition sufficiency might loathe granular material, as a significant number of granules contain a high level of Nitrogen or potassium, which only give the best results for nutrient-deficient lawns.
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Release: Quick-Release Or Slow-Release?
Plants have been scientifically proven only to be able to take up nutrients in certain ionic forms.
For instance, plants can only get Nitrogen through absorbing nitrate (NO3-) or ammonium (NH4+) ions, and potassium is only taken up as the potassium ion (K+).
Quick-Release Fertilizers
Quick-release fertilizers or water-soluble Nitrogen have a major advantage over their slow-release counterparts, which lies in their capability to provide nutrients to the lawns in the ionic form.
Slow-Release Fertilizers
Slow-release fertilizers or water-insoluble Nitrogen consist of sulfur-coated varieties. Unlike quick-release ones, they need a bit of time to be broken down by microorganisms in the soil.
They can last for about 12 weeks, during which nutrients will be gradually released for plant uptake.
There is a lower chance of burning your grass due to nitrogen elements when you use slow-release fertilizers.
When you go shopping for organic lawn fertilizer, try looking for terms like “natural organic” and “slow-release” on the product labels.
Components To Watch Out
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Primary NPK Values
The next thing you should bear in mind is that all packaged organic fertilizer products will have a fertilizer analysis or grade on the fertilizer labels.
This analysis or grade should have an elaboration of the ratio (in percentages) of the three major nutrients in the fertilizer, which are Nitrogen (N), phosphate (P2O5), and potassium (K2O).
Often, these nutrients will include three numbers that stand for Nitrogen – phosphate – potassium (or N-P-K), respectively.
For example, a 10-2-2 fertilizer contains 10% N, 2% P, and 2% K. In other words, and there are 10 pounds of Nitrogen, 2 pounds of phosphate, and 2 pounds of potash in every 100 pounds of this fertilizer.
If a fertilizer has an NPK ratio larger than 15 while claiming to be organic, leave it out of your shopping cart.
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Nutrients Beyond NPK
Please keep in mind that organic fertilizers, unlike chemical fertilizers, almost always contain nutrients beyond N, P, and K.
Some of the most commonly found are calcium, magnesium, and sulfur.
Depending on the needs of your lawn, remember to read the instructions carefully to get a grasp of these extra nutrients, the number of times, and the best time of the year for fertilization.
Test Your Soil Before Purchase Fertilizer
Exceeding the needed amount of nutrients by using fertilizers may lead to the deterioration of soil health, water quality, and environmental concerns and make your lawn more easily prone to pest issues.
Before deciding to buy fertilizers, whether organic or not, you should have your soil tested to learn its nutrient status.
If the test result shows that the levels of some nutrients in your soil are high, for instance, Nitrogen (N), there’s no need for you to buy a fertilizer that has high concentrations of N.
On the other hand, if the test results indicate that your soil is low in K, you might want to look for a fertilizer that boosts this nutrient’s level in your soil.
Organic lawn fertilizer only works best when it is chosen based on soil nutrient availability, which is indicated in soil test results.
FAQs
In the interest of our garden-lovers, there’s probably some other concerns about the best lawn fertilizer.
To help you decide what works best for you, I have gathered some most commonly asked questions about this fertilizer.
My Top Pick
Without a doubt, the Espoma Plant Tone Original All Natural Organic Lawn Fertilizer my go-to organic fertilizer for lawns. It is such an-rounder in the world of organic lawn fertilizers. This product consists of 15 all-natural key nutrients and bio-tone microbes, which promote a healthy environment for microorganisms to thrive.
The slow-release formula allows nutrients to gradually break down into the soil, enabling steady nourishment for the soil over time. Apart from that, this non-toxic, all-purpose lawn food is easy to use and works amazingly well for all types of grass, flowers, trees, vegetables, etc.
After reading my list, have you made up your mind on what to buy for lawn fertilizing? Do you know what organic fertilizer best fits the current status of your lawn? What results do you expect to see when you feed your lawn? Are there any other factors that you take into account before purchasing an organic fertilizer? I can’t wait to get to know what you think in the comments below.