The (Fertilizer) Choice is Yours

by rauchdickson

Article by Getgreenturf

When it comes to fertilizers, there are almost as many product choices as there are opportunities to use them. And to make things more confusing, each type of fertilizer has its own benefits and drawbacks, depending on how they’re used.

Which fertilizer will work best for you? Here are some things to consider.

SpreadabilityThe ingredients in natural organic fertilizers can vary drastically from product to product. These fertilizers also may not be pelletized or granulated when produced. Ultimately this variation can result in an inconsistent texture, which affects spreadability, including dustiness, non-uniform application, or over- or under-spreading of fertilizer.

Granular (ball-like), slow- and controlled-release fertilizers are easier to spread and apply than all-natural fertilizers. That’s because of their consistency, a direct result of the manufacturing process.

TransportationIn addition to high spread rates, two of the biggest drawbacks of organics and all-natural fertilizers are transportation and shipping costs.

Organic and all-natural fertilizers have much lower nitrogen concentrations than slow- and controlled- release fertilizers. Because of this, the same amount of all-natural fertilizer will typically fertilize less area than the same amount of a slow- or controlled-release fertilizer.

The benefit to using organic or all natural is generally when it’s sourced locally. This helps reduce cost and the carbon footprint associated with transportation. It makes less sense to use organic fertilizer when you have to transport it hundreds of miles. It almost negates any potential environmental benefits reaped from using it. This is where slow- and controlled-release fertilizers deserve due consideration.

The Choice is YoursAt the end of the day, fertilizer choice comes down to preference.

Plants need nutrients. Water, soil and the soil’s biology all share the responsibility of turning nutrients into a usable form for turfgrass. All-natural, organic, or slow- and controlled release fertilizers all offer critical nitrogen to your plants and turf.

Still concerned about the nitrogen content of fertilizers? It’s important to remember that the air we breathe is composed of 78% nitrogen gas. And nitrogen is key for green, healthy plants and turf – to ensure you’re always applying the right amount of fertilizer, always refer to the directions on your fertilizer bag.

Knowledge is PowerIt’s important to weigh the advantages of multiple fertilizer options. There’s lots of great information available, and it’s up to you to educate yourselves and your customers. Discuss these advantages and disadvantages with industry experts and others. Then determine which option is best for each landscape