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10 Best Fertilizer For New Sod 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Scotts Turf Builder Starter Food for New Grass Ready-Spray, Use on Newly Seeded Lawns or After Installing Sod, For All Grass Types, 600 sq. ft., 32 oz.

Scotts Turf Builder Starter Food for New Grass Ready-Spray is a convenient choice for those looking to establish new sod or seed a new lawn. One of its main strengths is its easy application method – the ready-to-spray bottle allows you to feed and water your grass simultaneously, which can save time and effort.

This product is designed for use on all grass types, making it versatile. It covers up to 600 square feet with a 32 oz bottle, suitable for small to medium-sized areas. The combination of nutrients it provides helps new grass grow quicker and thicker, ensuring a healthy start.

The product is synthetic rather than organic, which might be a consideration for those looking for eco-friendly options. Scotts Turf Builder Starter Food for New Grass Ready-Spray is a practical and effective solution for starting new lawns, but it may not suit those looking for detailed nutrient control or organic products.

#2

Scotts Liquid Green Max Lawn Food: 2,000 sq. ft., 2-in-1 Fertilizer and Iron Supplement, Use on Any Grass Type, 32 oz.

Rating
10.0
Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release
Application Method

Most important from
9437 reviews

Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release
This fertilizer transformed my lawn from neglected to the greenest grass on the block within just a few days.
Application Method
Easy to apply and highly effective, making lawn care straightforward and rewarding.

Scotts Liquid Green Max Lawn Food is a convenient liquid fertilizer and iron supplement designed to enhance the green color of your lawn quickly. Covering up to 2,000 sq. ft., it is suitable for all grass types and offers a fast-acting solution for lawn care. The dual-action formula, which combines fertilization with an iron supplement, is particularly effective at deepening grass color within just three days—ideal for last-minute lawn prep for events like barbecues.

The application is user-friendly, involving simply connecting the bottle to a hose and spraying, eliminating the need for granular spreaders or additional tools. While it may not appeal to those seeking organic options, this product is a great choice for homeowners seeking an easy-to-apply, fast-acting solution to quickly green up their lawns.

Rating
10.0
Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release
Application Method

Most important from
9437 reviews

Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release
This fertilizer transformed my lawn from neglected to the greenest grass on the block within just a few days.
Application Method
Easy to apply and highly effective, making lawn care straightforward and rewarding.
#3

Scotts Turf Builder Triple ActionI, Weed Killer and Preventer Plus Lawn Fertilizer, 4,000 sq. ft., 11.31 lbs.

Rating
9.7
Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release
Application Method

Most important from
2885 reviews

Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release
I apply it once in the spring, and it controls the crabgrass and weeds, keeping the lawn green through the summer and into the fall.
Application Method
Easy to apply—no special skills required, just sprinkle it and let it work its magic.

The Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action1 is a versatile product designed to handle multiple lawn care needs simultaneously. Its three-in-one formula is excellent for users looking to kill weeds, prevent crabgrass, and fertilize their lawns in one go. This fertilizer covers up to 4,000 square feet, making it ideal for medium-sized lawns.

It is particularly effective against common lawn weeds such as dandelions, clover, and chickweed, and it also prevents crabgrass for up to 4 months, though it does not eliminate existing crabgrass. The product is suitable for a range of grass types, including Kentucky Bluegrass and Bermuda grass, making it a flexible option for different lawns.

Applying it is straightforward; simply use a Scotts spreader on a wet lawn, wait 24 hours, and then water it in. Timing is key, as it works best when applied in early spring when dandelions are actively growing. One of the limitations is that it is a synthetic fertilizer, so those looking for an organic option might need to consider other products. Additionally, the slow-release formula may not provide instant results, but it can promote a healthier lawn over time. It is a practical choice for homeowners who want a comprehensive lawn care solution without the hassle of multiple products.

Rating
9.7
Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release
Application Method

Most important from
2885 reviews

Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release
I apply it once in the spring, and it controls the crabgrass and weeds, keeping the lawn green through the summer and into the fall.
Application Method
Easy to apply—no special skills required, just sprinkle it and let it work its magic.

Buying Guide for the Best Fertilizer For New Sod

Choosing the right fertilizer for new sod is crucial to ensure that your lawn establishes quickly and grows healthily. Fertilizers provide essential nutrients that help the grass roots to develop and the blades to grow lush and green. When selecting a fertilizer, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they relate to the needs of your new sod. This guide will help you navigate through the important factors to consider so you can make an informed decision.
N-P-K RatioThe N-P-K ratio represents the percentage 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. For new sod, a higher Phosphorus content is beneficial to encourage strong root establishment. Look for a fertilizer with a balanced ratio like 10-20-10 or 15-30-15. If your soil test indicates specific deficiencies, you may need to adjust the ratio accordingly.
Slow-Release vs. Quick-ReleaseFertilizers can be either slow-release or quick-release. Slow-release fertilizers provide nutrients over an extended period, reducing the risk of burning the grass and requiring less frequent applications. Quick-release fertilizers deliver nutrients immediately, which can be beneficial for a quick boost but may require more frequent applications and careful monitoring to avoid over-fertilization. For new sod, a slow-release fertilizer is generally recommended to provide consistent nourishment as the grass establishes.
Organic vs. SyntheticOrganic fertilizers are made from natural materials and release nutrients slowly as they break down. They improve soil structure and microbial activity, which can be beneficial for long-term soil health. Synthetic fertilizers are chemically manufactured and provide nutrients more quickly. They are often more concentrated and can be tailored to specific nutrient needs. If you prefer a more natural approach and are willing to wait for slower results, organic fertilizers are a good choice. If you need faster results and precise nutrient control, synthetic fertilizers may be more suitable.
Application MethodFertilizers can be applied in various forms, including granular, liquid, and spike. 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 for even coverage. Spikes are convenient for small areas but may not provide even distribution. For new sod, granular fertilizers are often preferred for their ease of use and consistent nutrient release. However, if you need a quick nutrient boost, a liquid fertilizer can be a good supplement.
Soil pH CompatibilityThe pH level of your soil affects nutrient availability and grass health. Most grasses prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Some fertilizers are formulated to adjust soil pH, either raising or lowering it as needed. Before choosing a fertilizer, it's important to test your soil's pH. If your soil is too acidic or too alkaline, select a fertilizer that can help bring it to the optimal range for your sod type. This ensures that the nutrients in the fertilizer are effectively absorbed by the grass.

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