Comparing granule & liquid fertilizer: Grass care guide

by Cheryl Pendenza - Realtor®/Broker Associate 10/03/2024

When taking care of lawns, many homeowners face many options of both granule and liquid fertilizer. Grass fertilizers all accomplish the same goals, though there are some key differences between granule and liquid forms.

To help you decide which option is right for you and your lawn, here is a basic guide to granular vs liquid fertilizer:

Granular lawn fertilizer

Granular lawn fertilizer is also called solid fertilizer or pellet fertilizer. This type of fertilizer is spread onto your lawn before watering and gradually absorbs along with the moisture.

Liquid lawn fertilizer

Liquid lawn fertilizer is a concentrated liquid containing all the necessary nutrients for a healthy lawn. Once you add the concentrate to water, you can spray liquid lawn fertilizer as if you were watering with a garden hose

Nutrients

Lawn fertilizer typically contains three basic nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. These minerals help to enhance growth, root development and strength.

While the lawn itself can’t tell the difference between different fertilizer formulas, there are some differences in terms of nutrient absorption and spread. Slow-release granular fertilizer can’t always cover as much ground as a fast-acting liquid fertilizer. Therefore, you might end up with areas of higher concentrations of nutrients with granules than with liquid fertilizers.

Cautions & considerations

As with any type of gardening, there can be downsides to over-feeding your lawn. Some signs of an over fertilized lawn include browning tips, slow growth or a crusty residue on the soil surface. It’s important to follow included instructions to avoid overwhelming your yard.

Not sure which type of lawn fertilizer is right for you and your lawn? Keep these basics in mind when making your decision, but don’t hesitate to consult a professional garden service for help caring for your lawn.

About the Author
Author

Cheryl Pendenza - Realtor®/Broker Associate

Bringing more than 30 years of experience to the table, Cheryl has a paralegal degree, banking background, and is a member of many professional, civic, and community organizations.

Qualified • Experienced • Skilled

"As a full-time REALTOR®, I am dedicated to providing my clients with a high level of service by building relationships, marketing, and negotiating on their behalf. As a homeowner, I realize how important homeownership is.

Cheryl brings warmth and compassion to her client relationships and referrals have become the backbone of her business. "I’m grateful for every referral and welcome the opportunity to help clients achieve their real estate goals.”

Cheryl Pendenza, Broker Associate affiliated with RE/MAX Andrew Realty Services since 1999 is a local businesswoman and formidable negotiator who can help you achieve your real estate goals. Supporting family, community and local business is important to Cheryl and she can often be found at one of the local restaurants, shops, or galleries.