12 Best Starter Fertilizer For Grass for 2024

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Are you looking for the best starter fertilizer for your grass in 2023? Look no further! In this article, we will showcase the 12 best starter fertilizers for grass that are sure to give your lawn the boost it needs. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, having the right fertilizer is essential for healthy and vibrant grass growth. Our comprehensive list will provide you with a range of options catered to different soil types, budget considerations, and specific lawn care needs. Discover the top products that will help your grass thrive and achieve that lush green look you desire.

Scotts Turf Builder Starter Fertilizer for New Grass, Use When Planting Seed, 5,000 sq. ft., 15 lbs.

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Overall Score: 8/10

Scotts Turf Builder Starter Fertilizer is the must-have product when it comes to planting new grass or reseeding existing lawns. With its powerful formula, it promotes 70% thicker and 35% quicker growth compared to unfed grass. This fertilizer is also effective for sod and grass plugs, enhancing seeding results for a lush lawn. The well-balanced 24-25-4 fertilizer ratio provides the essential nutrients for developing lawns, ensuring optimal growth and health. Whether you're starting a new lawn or maintaining an existing one, this product is safe for any grass type. With a coverage of 5,000 square feet, Scotts Turf Builder Starter Fertilizer is a reliable choice to achieve a beautiful, thriving lawn.

Scotts Turf Builder Starter Fertilizer is a highly recommended product for anyone looking to establish or improve their lawn. Its effective formula and nutrient-rich composition make it an essential tool for achieving thicker, quicker, and healthier grass growth. The fertilizer’s versatility allows for use in various planting situations and it is compatible with all grass types. The large coverage area of 5,000 sq. ft. ensures that you get the most out of each bag. While there may be some minor issues with spread settings and granule size, these can be easily adjusted for better results. Overall, Scotts Turf Builder Starter Fertilizer is a reliable choice for anyone seeking a thriving and vibrant lawn.

Scotts Turf Builder Starter Fertilizer for New Grass

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Overall Score: 8.2/10

Get your new lawn off to a great start with Scotts Turf Builder Starter Fertilizer for New Grass Ready-Spray. This specially designed liquid fertilizer is formulated to enhance the growth of new grass, making it grow quicker and thicker than if not fed at all. With its convenient ready-to-spray design, you can easily feed and water your grass simultaneously, resulting in improved seeding results. Suitable for use on any grass type, this fertilizer is the perfect choice for starting a new lawn, reseeding an existing one, or installing sod, sprigs, or grass plugs. A single 32 fl. oz. bottle can cover up to 600 sq. ft.

Scotts Turf Builder Starter Fertilizer for New Grass Ready-Spray is an excellent choice to give your new lawn a head start. With its effective formula, this fertilizer promotes quick and thick growth, resulting in a beautiful, green lawn. The ready-to-spray design makes it convenient to apply, and it is safe to use on any grass type. While there may be some packaging and shipping issues, this product overall receives positive reviews for its effectiveness. If you’re starting a new lawn or reseeding an existing one, Scotts Turf Builder Starter Fertilizer for New Grass Ready-Spray is a reliable option to achieve the lush and healthy grass you desire.

Fertilome New Lawn Starter Fertilizer 9-13-7

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Overall Score: 7/10

Keep your lawn healthy and vibrant with Fertilome New Lawn Starter Fertilizer 9-13-7. This fertilizer provides the essential nutrients needed for grass seed and sod to develop strong roots and mature stems before rapid growth. With a coverage of up to 1,000 square feet, this 4 lb. bag is perfect for maintaining a lush green lawn. The 9-13-7 formula contains 9% Nitrogen, 13% Phosphate, and 7% Soluble Potash. Apply evenly with a drop or broadcast spreader for best results. Enjoy a beautiful green lawn with Fertilome New Lawn Starter Fertilizer!

Overall, Fertilome New Lawn Starter Fertilizer 9-13-7 is a reliable product that aids in the development of strong and healthy lawns. It provides the necessary nutrients for optimal growth and is easy to apply. While there are mixed reviews on its effectiveness, many users have seen positive results, with grass popping up quickly. The 4 lb. bag covers a decent amount of lawn area, making it suitable for small to medium-sized lawns. However, some customers reported receiving damaged packaging. Considering its reasonable price, Fertilome New Lawn Starter Fertilizer is worth a try if you want to nurture your lawn and enjoy a vibrant green space.

Lawnifii Fertilizer New Lawn Starter Box, 3 Bottles of Liquid Fertilizer

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Overall Score: 8.5/10

Revitalize your lawn with the Lawnifii Fertilizer New Lawn Starter Box. This powerful liquid fertilizer is specially designed for new sod and helps in establishing healthy root systems for enhanced growth. Equipped with nano-sized nutrients, it provides a greater uptake of essential elements, ensuring your grass and plants receive optimal nourishment. The easy-to-use bottle can be conveniently attached to a garden hose, allowing for hassle-free and even application. With three bottles included, each covering 5,000 square feet, your lawn will receive ample nourishment. Say goodbye to dull and lifeless yards as the Lawnifii Fertilizer brings vibrancy and vitality to your outdoor space.

The Lawnifii Fertilizer New Lawn Starter Box is a must-have for anyone looking to transform their lawn into a lush and vibrant paradise. Its specialized formula delivers essential nutrients to new sod, promoting healthy root growth and overall plant development. The easy-to-use liquid fertilizer, combined with ample coverage from three bottles, ensures that every corner of your lawn receives the necessary nourishment. With its nano-sized nutrients, this fertilizer offers great value for money as more nutrients are absorbed by the plants. Whether you’re starting a new lawn or revitalizing an existing one, the Lawnifii Fertilizer is a reliable and effective solution.

Ferti-Lome New Lawn Starter Fertilizer 9-13-7 – 20 lbs.

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Overall Score: 8.5/10

Transform your lawn with the Ferti-Lome New Lawn Starter Fertilizer. This 20-pound bag of fertilizer is designed to promote healthy grass growth in newly seeded or sodded lawns. The balanced blend of nutrients including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium helps to establish strong roots and encourage vibrant green growth. The versatile formula is also effective for turf renovation and overseeding existing lawns. With its easy-to-use granular form, this fertilizer is convenient and efficient. Simply spread it evenly over your lawn and water thoroughly to activate the nutrients. Suitable for use on residential and commercial lawns, the Ferti-Lome New Lawn Starter Fertilizer is a must-have for any gardener looking to create a lush, vibrant lawn.

The Ferti-Lome New Lawn Starter Fertilizer is a reliable choice for gardeners who want to establish healthy and vibrant lawns. While the lack of specifications is a downside, the versatile formula and easy-to-use granular form makes up for it. The balanced blend of nutrients in this fertilizer helps promote strong root development and green growth, making it ideal for newly seeded or sodded lawns. Additionally, its effectiveness for turf renovation and overseeding existing lawns adds to its value. If you’re looking to transform your lawn and create a lush and vibrant outdoor space, the Ferti-Lome New Lawn Starter Fertilizer is worth considering.

Scotts Turf Builder Starter Food for New Grass

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Overall Score: 8/10

Give your newly planted grass the boost it needs with Scotts Turf Builder Starter Food. This lawn fertilizer is specially formulated to promote healthy growth and help new grass establish quickly. It is also great for sod and grass plugs. With a coverage of 5,000 sq. ft., this 15 lb. bag contains enough fertilizer to nourish your entire lawn. The starter food is packed with essential nutrients and feeds the new grass for up to 6 weeks, allowing it to grow strong and lush. Easy to apply, this fertilizer provides quick results and helps create a thick, green lawn that you can enjoy for years to come.

Scotts Turf Builder Starter Food is an excellent lawn fertilizer for new grass. It provides the essential nutrients needed for healthy growth and helps the grass establish quickly. The coverage of 5,000 sq. ft. is sufficient for most lawns, and the fertilizer feeds the new grass for up to 6 weeks, ensuring long-lasting results. The easy application makes it convenient for homeowners, even those with limited gardening experience. However, it is important to note that this fertilizer may not be suitable for all types of grass, so it is recommended to check compatibility before use. Overall, Scotts Turf Builder Starter Food is a reliable and effective choice for anyone looking to achieve a beautiful, green lawn.

The Andersons 18-24-12 Starter Turf Fertilizer, 50lb Bag

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Overall Score: 8/10

The Andersons 18-24-12 Starter Turf Fertilizer is a specifically formulated seed starter designed to promote vigorous seedling development and root establishment. It also enhances spring greenup and corrects phosphorous deficiencies in established turf. This fertilizer is perfect for newly seeded turf and each 50lb bag can cover an impressive 12,500 square feet at a medium rate. With its high customer rating of 4.5/5, it has received positive reviews for its effectiveness in helping seeds grow, greening up lawns, and even improving the growth of fruit trees. The only complaint is that it could use more potash. Overall, the Andersons 18-24-12 Starter Turf Fertilizer is a reliable choice for anyone looking to give their lawn a healthy and vibrant start.

Overall, the Andersons 18-24-12 Starter Turf Fertilizer is a reliable choice for anyone looking to give their lawn a healthy and vibrant start. It has received great reviews for stimulating seed growth, greening up lawns, and enhancing the growth of fruit trees. With a large coverage area and specific formulation for success, this fertilizer is designed to promote vigorous seedling development and correct phosphorous deficiencies. The only downside is the lack of potash, but this can easily be supplemented with other products. If you want a lush and thriving lawn, this product is worth considering.

Miracle-Gro Quick Start Planting Solution

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Overall Score: 8.5/10

The Miracle-Gro Quick Start Planting & Transplant Starting Solution is a liquid concentrate that provides the essential nutrients for transplants to thrive. Suitable for all flowers, vegetables, trees, shrubs, transplants, and seedlings, this solution helps prevent transplant shock and stimulates root growth for faster blooms. It comes in a convenient 48 fl. oz. size and can be easily mixed with water. The product has received positive reviews for its effectiveness in promoting plant growth and preventing plant shock during transplanting. However, some customers have reported issues with leaking packaging. Overall, the Miracle-Gro Quick Start Planting & Transplant Starting Solution is a reliable option for gardeners looking to give their plants a healthy start.

The Miracle-Gro Quick Start Planting & Transplant Starting Solution is a reliable product for giving plants a healthy start. With its nutrient-rich formula, it helps prevent transplant shock and stimulates root growth, resulting in faster blooms. While some customers have reported issues with leaking packaging, the overall consensus is positive, with many gardeners finding success using this solution for their transplants and seedlings. It is a convenient and effective option for both beginners and experienced gardeners. Whether you’re starting a new garden or transplanting existing plants, the Miracle-Gro Quick Start Planting & Transplant Starting Solution can give your plants the boost they need to thrive.

Natural Base Lawn Fertilizer – 8.33 lb. Bag

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Overall Score: 8/10

Revitalize your lawn with Turf Nurture Natural Base Lawn Fertilizer. This lawn restoration formula is the key to bringing tired lawns back to life. Safe for pets and children when used as directed, it is a natural base fertilizer with 70% slow release nitrogen, promoting increased growth and vigor. This fertilizer can be applied in Spring, Summer, and Fall, giving your lawn a second chance to thrive. With an 8.33 lb. bag, it provides excellent coverage for your lawn. Don't waste time and money on ordinary fertilizers, choose Turf Nurture and see the difference it can make for your lawn.

Turf Nurture Natural Base Lawn Fertilizer is a reliable option for revitalizing your lawn. With its natural base and slow release nitrogen, it promotes healthy growth and vigor without harming pets or children. Many users have seen positive results, with greener and thicker grass. However, there are mixed reviews regarding its effectiveness in promoting grass growth evenly across the entire lawn. Some users found it to be an ordinary product. Overall, if you’re looking for a pet-friendly and eco-friendly lawn fertilizer, Turf Nurture is worth considering.

Safer Brand Lawn Restore Natural Lawn Fertilizer

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Overall Score: 8.2/10

Revitalize your lawn with Safer Brand 9335SR Lawn Restore Natural Lawn Fertilizer. This non-burning fertilizer comes in a 20-pound bag that covers up to 5,000 square feet. The formula is designed to strengthen root systems, promote soil vitality, and help plants withstand heat, cold, and drought stresses. Made from naturally derived ingredients, it is safe for your kids and pets to play on immediately after application. With fast results within 3 to 5 days, your lawn will transform into a lush, green paradise. Say goodbye to yellow spots and hello to a thick, healthy turf with Safer Brand Lawn Restore.

Safer Brand Lawn Restore Natural Lawn Fertilizer is a reliable and effective solution for revitalizing your lawn. With its non-burning formula and naturally derived ingredients, it promotes a lush and healthy turf without harming your kids and pets. The fast-acting formula starts greening up your lawn within days, making it a convenient choice for quick results. While some users may not see significant differences, the majority of customers have reported positive changes in their lawns. It covers a large area, making it a cost-effective option for maintaining your lawn’s health. Overall, Safer Brand Lawn Restore is a recommended choice for anyone looking to revive their lawn and create a vibrant outdoor space.

Miracle-Gro All Purpose Plant Food

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Overall Score: 9/10

As an avid gardener, I'm always looking for ways to help my plants thrive and grow. I recently tried Miracle-Gro, and I have to say, I'm impressed with the results. Miracle-Gro is a plant food that provides essential nutrients to help plants grow bigger, stronger, and healthier. It works effectively on a wide range of plants, including flowers, vegetables, trees, shrubs, and houseplants. Safe for all plants, it guarantees not to burn when used as directed. With its water-soluble formula, it can be applied every 1-2 weeks using a watering can or the Miracle-Gro Garden Feeder. The 3 lb box is a great option, ensuring you have enough plant food for multiple growing seasons. With a customer rating of 4.7/5, this trusted and reliable product is a must-have for any gardener.

In summary, Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food is a reliable and effective choice for any gardener. Its essential nutrients and easy application methods make it a valuable addition to your gardening routine. It has received high praise from customers, with noticeable improvements in plant growth and health. However, caution should be taken to use it in moderation to prevent overgrowth. Overall, if you’re looking for a plant food that delivers impressive results and is backed by a trusted brand, Miracle-Gro is the way to go.

Dr. Earth Organic Tomato Fertilizer

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Overall Score: 9/10

The Dr. Earth Organic 5 Tomato, Vegetable & Herb Fertilizer Poly Bag is a nutrient-rich fertilizer designed for vegetables, herbs, and tomatoes. Made with 100% organic and natural ingredients, this fertilizer provides optimum levels of essential plant nutrients without the use of chemicals. It contains pro-biotic, seven champion strains of beneficial soil microbes plus ecto and endo mycorrhizae, which contribute to drought tolerance, enhanced nutrient availability, and increased plant performance. The fertilizer feeds for several months, releasing nutrients quickly and resulting in more abundant crops and tastier, nutritious vegetables. With a 4.6/5 customer rating, it is highly recommended by users for its effectiveness and organic formula.

The Dr. Earth Organic 5 Tomato, Vegetable & Herb Fertilizer Poly Bag is a must-have for gardeners who want to grow nutritious and delicious vegetables. With its organic formula and optimum levels of essential plant nutrients, this fertilizer delivers exceptional results. The addition of beneficial soil microbes and mycorrhizae enhances plant performance and increases drought tolerance. Users rave about the abundant crops and the tastiness of their vegetables when using this product. While there might be some issues with mold in wet conditions and solubility in water, the overall effectiveness and quality of this fertilizer make it highly recommended. Give your plants the best with Dr. Earth Organic Tomato Fertilizer!

Buyer's Guide: Starter Fertilizer for Grass

So, you've decided to take on the rewarding journey of growing a beautiful, green lawn. Congratulations! One crucial step in achieving a healthy and vibrant grassy paradise is choosing the right starter fertilizer. To help you make an informed decision, we present this comprehensive buyer's guide. Let's dive in!

Why Do I Need Starter Fertilizer?

• Promotes Root Development: Starter fertilizers are specially designed to provide the essential nutrients needed for robust root growth, giving your grass a strong foundation from the very beginning.
• Encourages Quick Establishment: With a nutrient-rich environment, starter fertilizers help your grass establish itself faster, leading to a thicker and healthier lawn overall.
• Improves Resistance: By nurturing young grass plants, starter fertilizers enhance their ability to resist stressors such as drought, foot traffic, and disease, ensuring long-term vitality.

What Nutrients Should I Look for?

Nitrogen (N): Essential for leaf and overall plant growth, nitrogen promotes lush green color. Look for a starter fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content, preferably in a slow-release form.Phosphorus (P): Vital for root development and strength, phosphorus boosts early growth. Choose a fertilizer with a relatively high phosphorus content to support your young grass.Potassium (K): Helps your grass withstand harsh conditions, potassium enhances resistance to drought, disease, and temperature extremes. A moderate to high potassium concentration in the fertilizer is beneficial.

Which Type of Starter Fertilizer is Best?

• Granular Fertilizers: These are the most commonly used starter fertilizers, available in pellet or prill form. They are easy to apply and provide a slow-release of nutrients, fostering gradual and sustained growth.
• Liquid Fertilizers: These fertilizers offer the advantage of quick absorption and uptake by the grass. Liquid starters are often preferred for hydroseeding or situations where a rapid establishment is desired.
• Organic Fertilizers: For those inclined towards environmentally-friendly options, organic starter fertilizers provide natural and slow-release nutrients. They improve soil health, support microbial activity, and minimize the risk of nutrient runoff.
• Synthetic Fertilizers: These fertilizers provide a concentrated boost of nutrients, giving your grass a rapid start. Their formulations are precisely controlled, ensuring a balanced nutrient profile for optimal growth.

How Do I Choose the Right Starter Fertilizer?

1. Soil Test: Conduct a soil test to determine the pH level and nutrient deficiencies in your soil. This information will help you select a starter fertilizer that addresses any specific deficiencies.
2. Grass Type: Consider the type of grass you have or intend to grow. Some grass species may have specific nutrient requirements, and selecting a starter fertilizer suitable for their needs will yield better results.
3. Product Labels: Study the product labels carefully. Look for the nutrient concentration, application rates, and instructions. Ensure that the fertilizer meets your lawn's specific needs and matches your level of gardening expertise.
4. Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release: Decide whether you prefer a slow-release or quick-release fertilizer. Slow-release options provide a steady supply of nutrients over time, while quick-release fertilizers offer a rapid burst of growth.
5. Budget and Coverage: Consider your budget and the size of your lawn. Calculate the amount of fertilizer needed to cover the entire area effectively without wasting resources.