Sunday, July 6, 2008

How Do Different Types Of Fertilizers Affect Your Lawn Grasses

Writen by Jack Greenwood

There are four major types of lawn fertilizers available in the market today. They are granular, liquid, synthetic and organic. Let's take a quick look at each of them.

The most popular type of lawn fertilizer is the granular type as it is easy to use and last longer. There are two forms: quick release and slow release. A slow release form will provide fertilization over two to six months. The advantage is that there is no need to apply fertilizers for the next few months. The downside is that the result will take a longer time to show. On the other hand, the quick release form will show result in a shorter period of time but it is necessary to apply them on a more frequent basis. Quick release form tends to work better in cold weather and thus is the preferred choice during winter seasons.

Liquid fertilizers usually come in concentrated form and are applied by attaching a hose and nozzle to a spray bottle. This method of fertilizing the lawn is easy and required less effort. Being in liquid form also means that the nutrients are absorbed by the grass roots almost immediately. In addition to fertilizers, herbicides can also be added during this treatment. You can see the result in a very short time using this method. The downside to this method is that frequent application is necessary due to quick absorption of the nutrients.

Synthetic fertilizers are not natural fertilizers as they are chemically engineered. This type of fertilizers offers immediate release of nutrients that penetrate the soil very quickly. The application of this type of fertilizers needs to be repeated often as the result doesn't last long. They can also damage the lawn if not applied in the correct manner.

For totally natural fertilizers, try organic fertilizers. They are made from once living organisms and their by-products. These types of fertilizers are applied to the lawn by spreaders, rakes or even hands. Due to its organic nature, the nutrients are released slowly. The nitrogen level in this type of soil also tends to be higher.

There are many factors to consider when choosing the type of fertilizers. They include the condition of your lawn, the amount of effort you are willing to put in, the climate, cost as well as your personal preference. No matter which type of fertilizers, you choose you can be sure that your lawn will be strong and green as you consistently fertilize it.

Jack Greenwood is the webmaster of GreenLawnCareTips.com where he provides more information on lawn care and fertilizing tips. Sign up for a free 7-part lawn care mini course at this site today!

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