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10 Best Fall Lawn Fertilizers 2025 in the United States

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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.

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.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
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

Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food and Garden Feeder Bundle, Hose-End Feeding System for Lawns

The Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food and Garden Feeder Bundle is designed to make lawn care straightforward by combining watering and feeding in one step. This product is suitable for anyone looking to quickly achieve a thick, green lawn, as it can be used on all grass types. The fast-acting, water-soluble formula ensures nutrients are immediately available to plants, making it a good fit for those needing quick results (quick-release fertilizer).

The inclusion of a garden feeder that attaches to your garden hose simplifies the application process with three spray patterns and a trigger lock for ease of use. With a coverage area of up to 7,200 square feet, it should be adequate for most medium-sized lawns. However, this product is synthetic and not organic, which may be a disadvantage for those preferring eco-friendly options.

Additionally, while the bundle offers convenience, it may not provide the slow-release benefits that some fertilizers do, meaning more frequent applications may be necessary. The product format is granules, which require a hose-end sprayer for application, potentially limiting flexibility if you don't have easy access to a garden hose.

#3

Scotts Turf Builder Plan for Small Northern Lawns with Halts, Weed & Feed, SummerGuard and WinterGuard Fall Lawn Fertilizer

The Scotts Turf Builder Plan for Small Northern Lawns is a comprehensive four-part system designed to simplify lawn care throughout the year. This plan includes specific products for each season: Halts Crabgrass Preventer with Lawn Food for spring, Weed & Feed for summer, SummerGuard Lawn Food with Insect Control for mid-summer, and WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food for fall. Each product targets different lawn care needs, ensuring a healthy, green lawn year-round.

It’s suitable for various grass types including Bermudagrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, Tall Fescue, Centipedegrass, Zoysiagrass, and Bahiagrass, and covers an area of up to 5,000 sq. ft., making it ideal for small yards in Northern climates. The granule form allows for easy application, though users need to be consistent with the schedule for best results. Its N-P-K ratios are tailored to address seasonal lawn requirements, promoting growth, weed prevention, and insect control.

The plan is synthetic, which ensures quick results but may deter those interested in organic options. The slow-release nature of some components ensures prolonged feeding. Some users might find the 52.4-pound weight of the package to be cumbersome. If you're looking for a straightforward, year-round lawn care solution, this product could be a strong candidate, especially if you prefer synthetic fertilizers and have a small yard.

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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