lawn care filling fertilizer granular

Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release Fertilizer: What New England Homeowners Need to Know

Fertilization is one of the best things that you can do for your lawn. It provides essential nutrients which are then used to help your lawn grow thicker, greener, and healthier. But understanding fertilization and the types of fertilizer for grass can feel complicated. There’s a lot more involved in making the right decisions for your lawn than you may realize.

One of the factors you’ll need to understand is choosing between slow-release lawn fertilizer and quick-release fertilizer.

In this article, we’ll cover:

Understanding Lawn Fertilization
What is Quick-Release Fertilizer?
What is Slow-Release Fertilizer?
How Working With a Pro Simplifies It All

At the end of the day, we want you to see the most possible success for your lawn so that you can have results you are proud to show off.

Understanding Lawn Fertilization

As we’ve mentioned, fertilization is one of the best things that you can do for your New England lawn. There is a reason why every lawn care company offers fertilization as a primary service.
lawn care technician spraying a liquid fast-release fertilizer productIf your lawn is lacking in color, thickness, or overall vigor, it could be that it’s not receiving the proper nutrients that it needs to perform its best. This is where fertilization can help.

It’s important to understand that not all fertilizer is created equally. Homeowners don’t always realize that the quality and composition of the fertilizer will directly impact its success. At Seacoast Turf Care, we use an organic-based lawn fertilizer that contains both micro and macronutrients to best support your lawn’s health.

As far as the types of fertilizer for grass go, there’s granular and liquid fertilizer types and there is quick-release fertilizer and slow-release fertilizer. At Seacoast, we use some liquids and some quick-release products, but overall, we primarily focus on slow-release granular fertilizer. We’ll explain in more depth further below.

What is Quick-Release Fertilizer?

Quick-release fertilizer (aka, fast-release fertilizer) is exactly what its name implies. It is fertilizer that supplies nutrients rapidly to the lawn.

The nutrients are available in a readily soluble form, meaning they dissolve quickly and are available immediately.
lawn care technician mixing a liquid quick-release fertilizerWhile it might sound like this is what you’d want all of the time, that’s not the case. Because the nutrients are used up so quickly, the effects can be short-lived (as opposed to long-lasting). There’s also more potential for fertilizer burn.

But there are circumstances that warrant a quick-release fertilizer. For instance, we might use this type of product if homeowners need a really quick green-up for an important event. Sometimes, these fertilizers can also be a solution to address a specific nutrient deficiency.

But in terms of long-term goals, fast-release fertilizer can be one part of an effective lawn care program, but it is not a long-term solution for your lawn’s ongoing fertilization needs.

What is Slow-Release Fertilizer?

As you might have guessed, slow-release lawn fertilizer is a product in which the nutrients are released gradually, over time. These products use ingredients that require time to break down.
lawn care tech filling hopper with granular slow-release fertilizerThis extended release timeframe comes with some key benefits, including:

Longer Nutrient Availability

Slow-release fertilizer slowly releases nutrients over weeks reducing the need for frequent applications.

Prevents Lawn Burn

It lowers the risk of over-fertilization and burning the grass due to its gradual nutrient release.

More Even Growth

Slow-release fertilizer encourages steady, consistent grass growth rather than rapid bursts that can lead to excessive mowing.

Improves Soil Health

Slow-release fertilizer often includes organic components that enhance microbial activity and soil structure.lawn care technician applying granular slow release fertilizer

How Working With a Pro Simplifies It All

We know there can be a lot to figure out when it comes to a service like fertilization. And in order to get the most out of that service, it’s important you have a good understanding of what you’re doing.

This is a key reason why it makes sense to invest in professional lawn care in Southern NH, Northeastern Massachusetts, and Southern Maine. A professional will understand what types of fertilizer for grass make sense in which situations. It removes all of the hassles from the homeowner’s end.

Of course, not all professionals are necessarily investing in high-quality fertilizers or even getting too technical about the types of fertilizer they’re using.

That’s why it’s important to be selective about who you hire.

Welcome to the other side of the fence. Here at Seacoast Turf Care, we will only put our name on something that actually delivers great results. Our program is designed specifically for the soil in our area and the results show it. We have many happy clients who love their lush, green lawns.

We’re using a scientifically backed lawn care program that looks at what’s going on beneath the surface. Our investment in the health of your lawn’s soil will pay off for you in the long run.

You’ll start to see greener, thicker grass over time. Don’t let amazing lawn care results escape your grass. With your focus in the right place, you’ll finally get the amazing lawn you’ve been craving.besautiful green grass in front of a New England home

Want to learn more about what makes us a great choice for your lawn care needs? At Seacoast Turf Care, we service NH towns near Stratham, North Hampton, Exeter and many more. Get lawn care pricing for your Southern NH, Southern Maine, or Northeastern Massachusetts property. 

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