What makes a difference? Slow-Release Fertilizer vs. Fast-Release Fertilizer

If you want a healthy, lush lawn, fertilization is the key. There is no one fertilizer that can be considered a magic formula for all types of lawns. It largely depends on the exact nutrients that the soil needs most. According to the University of Illinois, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are very essential for a healthy lawn.

Most fertilizers fall under one of these two categories: slow-release or fast-release fertilizer. It's important to know how each one functions so that you can determine which type will work best for your lawn.

When it comes to fertilization, consulting a professional is the safest route. Trying to do it on your own may result in costly mistakes. At Big Lakes Lawncare, we have trained professionals who ensure that our clients get the best fertilization treatments all year long.

Slow-release fertilizer is best for established lawns.

Slow-release fertilizers let nutrients penetrate into the ground over a period of weeks, sometimes even reaching up to two months. They are usually in pellet or granule forms, which break down as time goes by. It is important to water your lawn after a granular fertilizer application, as that is what will activate the breakdown of these small pellets.

What are the advantages of a slow-release fertilizer?

• There will be a constant release of nutrients into your soil for a few weeks. This is great for established lawns that just need a little extra boost.
• It is less likely to cause leaf burn due to less frequent applications.
• It encourages more consistent growth, resulting in grass that is stronger and more resistant to pests and diseases.

Fast-release fertilizer works for lawns that need an instant nutrient boost.

Fast-release or quick-release fertilizer makes nutrients readily available to your grass. While they can come in granular form, fast-release fertilizers are usually water-soluble so that they can be quickly dispersed through your lawn. This type of fertilizer will show results right away, so it's perfect for those who would like to give an instant nutrient boost to their lawns.

Property owners who are growing a new lawn from scratch should consider a fast-release fertilizer so that they will be able to quickly see results. It's also very useful when trying to reverse the lawn damage from a disease or pest infestation.

When applying fast-release fertilizer, it's important to know that you can easily harm your lawn by doing it incorrectly. The quick release of the chemicals could result in burns on the grass due to overapplication. Hiring a professional team like ours will ensure that fast-release fertilizers are applied safely and effectively.

When is the best time to apply fertilizer?

Lawn fertilization is not just a one-time thing. Fertilizers should be applied year-round. The first treatment should be done in early spring to get your lawn ready for planting and growing. Throughout the different seasons, your lawn will need more nutrients in order to grow healthy and strong. The last treatment should be done in the late fall. This treatment will encourage a deeper root system, which is needed as winter comes and your grass becomes dormant.

Not sure if your lawn needs a slow-release or fast-release fertilizer? Call (586) 200-0855 and talk to one of our experts.

We provide fertilization services in Macomb, Shelby, Chesterfield, and surrounding cities in Michigan. We use a balanced fertilizer that includes nitrogen, phosphorus, and sometimes potassium, depending on Michigan state potassium regulations.

When you enroll in our fertilization program, we include weed control treatments at every visit. This will ensure that nothing will prevent your grass from getting the nutrients it needs. We only assure quality service here at Big Lakes Lawncare. Any dissatisfaction with our services and we will happily come back to redo our service until our customers are happy.

You can call (586) 200-0855 to schedule your fertilization treatments today.