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10 Best Fall Lawn Fertilizers 2025 in the United States

Jonathan Green (10251) Organic Lawn Food - 10-0-1 Grass Fertilizer (15,000 Sq. Ft.)

N-P-K Ratio: 10-0-1
Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release: Slow-Release
Organic vs. Synthetic: Organic
Application Method: Granules
Coverage Area: 15,000 sq. ft.

Miracle-Gro 4PK 4M Lawn Fertilizer

N-P-K Ratio: 36-0-6
Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release: Quick-Release
Organic vs. Synthetic: Synthetic
Application Method: Granular
Coverage Area: Medium

Jonathan Green (11989) Green-Up Lawn Food - 29-0-3 Grass Fertilizer (15,000 Sq. Ft.)

N-P-K Ratio: 29-0-3
Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release: Quick-Release
Organic vs. Synthetic: Synthetic
Application Method: Standard spreader
Coverage Area: 15000 sq ft
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#1

Winner

Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & Feed2, Weed Killer Plus Lawn Fertilizer, 8,000 sq. ft., 27.59 lbs.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,473
Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release

Most important from
5701 reviews

Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release
The product takes a while to penetrate the soil, but once it does, it makes the grass really green.

The Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & Feed2 is designed specifically for Southern lawns, making it an ideal choice for those with St. Augustinegrass, Centipedegrass, Zoysiagrass, and Carpetgrass. This product stands out by not only fertilizing your lawn but also controlling a variety of common weeds like dollarweed, clover, and dandelion. It covers a substantial area of up to 8,000 square feet, which is great for larger lawns, and needs to be watered in immediately after application to be effective.

The 27.59 lbs bag is easy to handle and apply with granular form, ensuring even distribution. By feeding your grass and targeting weeds, it helps build stronger roots to withstand regional stressors typical in southern climates. However, it's critical to note that this product is not suitable for Bermudagrass and may damage it if used incorrectly. Another aspect to consider is that it is a synthetic fertilizer, which may not appeal to those preferring organic options.

Safety precautions are necessary during application, especially around pets and children. If you need a product specifically tailored for Southern grass types and are okay with synthetic formulations, this could be a solid choice for your lawn care needs.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,473
Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release

Most important from
5701 reviews

Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release
The product takes a while to penetrate the soil, but once it does, it makes the grass really green.
#2

Jonathan Green (16008) Veri-Green Starter Fertilizer for Seeding & Sodding - 12-18-8 Starter Lawn Fertilizer (15,000 Sq. Ft.)

The Jonathan Green Veri-Green Starter Fertilizer is designed specifically for seeding and sodding, making it a great option for those looking to establish new grass in their lawns. The 12-18-8 N-P-K ratio indicates a high phosphorus content, which is essential for developing strong roots in new grass seedlings. This makes it particularly effective for those starting a lawn from seed or laying down sod, as it promotes deep and dense root growth.

Another advantage is the inclusion of humates, which enhance nutrient availability and help the grass absorb these nutrients more efficiently, feeding your lawn for up to 2 months. The fertilizer is easy to apply with various spreaders, and a single 45 lb bag can cover a sizable area of up to 15,000 sq. ft., making it cost-effective for larger lawns.

A consideration is that it is a granular fertilizer, so it should be applied carefully to ensure even coverage and to avoid over-fertilizing any one spot. The product's large bag size (45 pounds) can be heavy and cumbersome to handle for some users. The Jonathan Green Veri-Green Starter Fertilizer is well-suited for homeowners looking to establish a new lawn in the fall or spring, but those with smaller lawns may want to look elsewhere.

#3

Jonathan Green (16003) Veri-Green Weed and Feed Lawn Fertilizer - 21-0-3 Grass Fertilizer & Weed Killer (15,000 Sq. Ft.)

The Jonathan Green (16003) Veri-Green Weed and Feed Lawn Fertilizer offers a convenient dual-action formula that both fertilizes your grass and controls weeds. It features an N-P-K ratio of 21-0-3, which means it is high in nitrogen, promoting lush green growth, but it lacks phosphorus and has a minimal amount of potassium. This may not be ideal for those looking to strengthen root systems in the fall. The product is a synthetic fertilizer, which is effective for quick results but may not be suitable for those preferring organic lawn care solutions.

It comes in granule form, making it easy to spread over a large area using a broadcast spreader. Coverage is impressive, up to 15,000 square feet, making it a good option for medium to large lawns. However, at 45 pounds, the bag is quite heavy, which might be cumbersome for some users to handle. This product is a solid choice for users looking for a quick green-up and weed control in a single application, but it may not be the best fit for those prioritizing root health or organic options.

Buying Guide for the Best Fall Lawn Fertilizers

Choosing the right fall lawn fertilizer is crucial for maintaining a healthy and vibrant lawn. Fall is a critical time for lawn care because it helps prepare your grass for the winter months and ensures it comes back strong in the spring. When selecting a fall lawn fertilizer, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they impact your lawn's health. Here are the main factors to consider when choosing a fall lawn fertilizer.
N-P-K RatioThe N-P-K ratio represents the percentages of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) in the fertilizer. Nitrogen promotes leaf growth, phosphorus supports root development, and potassium enhances overall plant health and disease resistance. For fall fertilizers, a higher potassium content is often recommended to strengthen the grass for winter. Look for ratios like 10-0-20 or 15-0-15. If your lawn needs more root development, a balanced ratio like 10-10-10 can be beneficial. Choose a ratio based on your lawn's specific needs and soil test results.
Slow-Release vs. Quick-ReleaseSlow-release fertilizers gradually release nutrients over time, providing a steady supply to the grass. This helps avoid nutrient burn and reduces the frequency of applications. Quick-release fertilizers provide an immediate nutrient boost but may require more frequent applications. For fall, slow-release fertilizers are generally preferred as they provide consistent nourishment throughout the season. However, if your lawn needs an immediate boost, a quick-release option might be suitable. Consider your lawn's current condition and maintenance schedule when deciding between the two.
Organic vs. SyntheticOrganic fertilizers are made from natural materials and are environmentally friendly. They improve soil structure and microbial activity, which can enhance long-term lawn health. Synthetic fertilizers are chemically manufactured and provide precise nutrient ratios. They often work faster but may not improve soil health in the long run. If you prefer a more sustainable approach and are willing to wait for gradual results, organic fertilizers are a good choice. If you need quick results and precise nutrient control, synthetic fertilizers might be more appropriate. Your preference for environmental impact and lawn care philosophy will guide this choice.
Application MethodFertilizers can be applied using various methods, including granular, liquid, and spike forms. Granular fertilizers are easy to spread and provide a slow, steady release of nutrients. Liquid fertilizers are quickly absorbed and can be applied with a sprayer, offering immediate results. Spike fertilizers are inserted into the soil and release nutrients directly to the roots. For fall, granular fertilizers are often preferred for their ease of use and consistent nutrient release. However, if you need a quick nutrient boost, liquid fertilizers can be effective. Choose the application method that fits your lawn care routine and equipment availability.
Coverage AreaThe coverage area indicates how much lawn a specific amount of fertilizer can treat. This is usually measured in square feet or square meters. It's important to know the size of your lawn to ensure you purchase enough fertilizer to cover the entire area. Over-application can harm your lawn, while under-application may not provide the desired results. Measure your lawn accurately and choose a fertilizer that matches your coverage needs. This will help you apply the right amount and achieve optimal results.

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