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On the hunt for the best organic lawn fertilizers for a greener, healthier lawn? You’ve come to the right place!
Whether you’ve got a certified green thumb or you’re a first-time homeowner who doesn’t know the first thing about maintaining your lawn, our TFC team has rounded up the top-rated organic lawn fertilizers that make keeping your lawn long and lush as easy as 1-2-3!
You’ve trusted us to research the best non-toxic pest control methods, air purifying house plants, and furniture finishes – we are thrilled to dig deep into safer lawn fertilizers!
It’s the infuriating struggle of every homeowner – keeping your lawn lush, green, and pristine. It can seem like a never-ending battle against weeds, brown patches, and spotty growth.
If you’re like us you’ve tried everything from secret family recipes to store-bought concoctions, but nothing seems to give you that picture-perfect lawn you’ve been dreaming of.
And let’s not forget the endless debates about when to fertilize, how much to use, and what type of fertilizer is best. It’s enough to make your head spin faster than a sprinkler on a hot summer day!
But when it comes to garden variety fertilizers you might want to look at the ingredient label twice. Most go-to fertilizers available at your local nursery or home improvement stores are laden with toxic synthetic chemicals. While these chemical-laden options promise quick results and a weed-free yard, at what cost?
As fertilizers seep into the soil, they leave behind a toxic trail, contaminating groundwater, harming delicate ecosystems, and posing risks to your children and pets as they play in your grass.
You don’t have to be stuck with a brown, patchy lawn or risk using harmful synthetic fertilizers. There’s a better alternative – organic lawn fertilizers!
These natural and sustainable options harness the power of nature to nourish the soil, support biodiversity, and create a beautiful green lawn that you and your loved ones can enjoy all summer long.
Today we’re digging deep into the world of organic lawn fertilizers, exploring their unique benefits, debunking common misconceptions, and introducing you to our top 11 expert-recommended options.
We’ll guide you through the process of choosing the perfect organic fertilizer for your specific grass type, climate, and soil conditions, ensuring that your lawn reaches its full potential without compromising your health or the environment.
So, whether you’re a seasoned lawn care enthusiast or a novice just trying to figure out where to start, get ready to transform your lawn into an eco-friendly paradise that will make your neighbors green with envy!
Top 11 Organic Lawn Fertilizers: Our Expert Picks & Reviews
This OMRI-listed and USDA BioPreferred organic fertilizer is packed with amino acids and slow-release nitrogen, that will prevent burned-out spots in your lush green lawn.
The plant-derived formula is free from biosolids, manure, composted waste products, and animal parts, making it safe for use around children and pets.
Innova’s low-dust, homogeneous granules are easy to spread using conventional equipment and won’t produce unpleasant odors.
Suitable for all grass types and climates, this Made-in-the-USA fertilizer stimulates healthy soil and plants by supplying highly digestible carbon to fuel beneficial microbes.
Price
$82.88
notable features
OMRI listed and USDA BioPreferred product, Safe for use around children and pets, Does not contain manures, treated sewage, animal parts or other waste products
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide.
Jobe’s Organics All-Purpose Fertilizer has a proprietary blend of microorganisms they refer to as “Jobe’s Biozome.”
This unique blend not only enhances soil quality and plant growth it also helps your lawn resist disease, insects, and drought.
This fast-acting formula quickly releases nutrients, allowing your grass to start benefiting right away.
But most importantly it’s safe for use around children and pets, giving you peace of mind as you nurture your lawn.
Price
$32.00
notable features
Fast-acting formula to release nutrients quickly, so your plants can start using them right away, Increases microorganism activity to increase the activity of beneficial microorganisms in the soil, Safe for use around children and pets.
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide.
Simply Gro’s Purely Organic Weed & Feed Lawn Food offers a gentle yet effective solution for maintaining a lush, weed-free lawn.
Made from natural, plant-based ingredients like distillers grains, and soy, enhanced with botanical oils, this fertilizer reduces existing broadleaf weed infestations while preventing new ones.
Its slow-release formula feeds your grass for up to 8 weeks, promoting vigorous turf growth without the risk of burning.
We especially love the absence of manure and biosolids meaning no unpleasant odors, making lawn care so much more enjoyable.
Price
$35.00
notable features
Plant-based formula with botanical oils, No manure, and no biosolids so there are no unpleasant odors, feeds your lawn for up to 8 weeks
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide.
Scotts Natural Lawn Food will help you achieve that thick, green lawn you’ve always dreamed of the natural way.
This OMRI-listed fertilizer can be applied during any season and to any grass type, making it a versatile option for lawn care. It’s certified organic and suitable for use on new grass seed or sod.
We were really impressed when we saw noticeable results within only 3 weeks of application.
Scotts Natural Lawn Food is safe for immediate use after application, meaning you can enjoy your lawn without waiting. It’s also pet and child-friendly, with no manure odor.
Price
$37.99
notable features
Safe to walk on immediately after application and can be used around kids and pets, OMRI listed, No unpleasant odor
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide.
Espoma Plant-Tone Organic Fertilizer is a great choice when you just need a good reliable, all-purpose organic plant food.
Suitable for use on flowers, vegetables, trees, and shrubs, this Made-in-the-USA fertilizer has been a trusted choice for home gardeners for over 10 years.
This rich blend of high-quality natural and organic ingredients, enhanced with Espoma’s exclusive Bio-tone formula, provides a steady supply of nutrients to keep your lawn lush and healthy.
The slow-release formula ensures continuous nourishment throughout the growing season.
Espoma Plant-Tone is environmentally safe, contains no sludges or toxic ingredients, and is approved for organic gardening as a registered Organic Input Material.
Price
$22.57
notable features
Environmentally safe with no sludges or toxic ingredients, Registered Organic Input Material, Made in the USA
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide.
Packed with beneficial probiotics and seven strains of mycorrhizal fungi, Dr. Earth’s Super Natural Lawn Food fertilizer enhances nutrient uptake and water absorption by colonizing plant roots.
Sustainably made from high-quality, human-grade whole foods, Dr. Earth’s formula contains no synthetic ingredients or GMO-infested chicken manure.
With OMRI, OIM, CCOF, and NOP certifications, this fertilizer offers organic transparency for a stunning, deep green lawn the natural way.
The inclusion of humic acid, kelp meal, fishbone meal, and other natural ingredients improves soil fertility and promotes healthy growth, resulting in ultra-green and vibrant lawns.
Price
$18.99
notable features
Sustainably made from high-quality, human-grade whole foods, Contains no synthetic ingredients or GMO-infested chicken manure, OMRI, OIM, CCOF, and NOP certified
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide.
Milorganite Organic Nitrogen Fertilizer is a great eco-friendly choice for lawn care since it’s made from heat-dried microbes that have digested organic matter.
It’s a rich source of slow-release nitrogen and iron that your lawn will love.
Milorganite’s slow-release properties provide nutrients for up to 10 weeks and the non-burning formula is safe for kids and pets.
We appreciated the low-odor formula and how green and lush our garden looked after just 1 week.
Price
$17.25
notable features
Contains virtually no salts to reduce the risk of burning lawns even in hot or dry conditions, Slow-release nutrients provide nitrogen and other nutrients for up to 8-10 weeks after application, Contains organically complex iron for long-lasting, deep green color
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide.
Down to Earth’s Bio-Turf 8-3-5 is formulated to promote deep-root development, so it takes less water to keep your lawn looking great.
The nitrogen-rich formula boosts early season growth, while the extra potassium helps your grass withstand seasonal stress from temperature changes and drought.
OMRI-listed for organic production, this fertilizer is derived from natural ingredients like hydrolyzed feather meal, blood meal, meat meal, bone meal, and langbeinite.
These components work together to provide a slow, steady release of nutrients for a healthier lawn.
Bio-Turf is also ideal for heavy-feeding garden vegetables, making it a versatile choice for both lawn and garden care.
Price
$18.40
notable features
Entirely natural and OMRI-listed for use in organic production, Specifically designed to encourage deep root growth, Nitrogen-rich formula to boost early season growth
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide.
Safer Brand Lawn Restore Fertilizer is a powerful, fast-acting solution for revitalizing tired, thinning lawns.
Lawn Restore helps strengthen root systems and improves your lawn’s ability to withstand heat, cold, and drought stress.
Formulated with a blend of molasses, seaweed extract, and other natural ingredients, this fertilizer not only feeds your grass but also supports the beneficial microbes in the soil.
The non-burning formula encourages a thicker, healthier lawn that greens up within just 3 to 5 days of application.
This fertilizer covers a whopping 5,000 sq ft and is safe for children and pets when used as directed.
Price
$42.99
notable features
Greens up lawns within 3 to 5 days while also providing effective year-round care, Designed to be non-burning promoting soil vitality without the risk of damaging grass, Supports beneficial soil microbes, contributing to overall lawn health and resilience
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide.
Mirimichi Green’s 4-4-4 Organic Granular Fertilizer is formulated to provide essential nutrients and biological properties for your soil.
The balanced NPK ratio, combined with calcium and iron, ensures that plants receive the macronutrients they need to thrive throughout the growing season.
Made from high-quality natural materials and certified by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI), this fertilizer promotes self-sustainability, enabling plants to efficiently absorb nutrients from the soil.
In addition to its nutrient-rich formula, Mirimichi Green’s fertilizer contains beneficial microorganisms such as Bacillus bacteria, Mycorrhizal fungi, and Trichoderma fungi.
These microorganisms work together in the plant’s root system to enhance growth, increase nutrient uptake, and boost overall plant vigor.
Price
$42.99
notable features
4-4-4 NPK ratio provides equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus so support overall plant health, OMRI Listed for organic use, Contains beneficial microorganisms such as Bacillus bacteria, Mycorrhizal fungi, and Trichoderma fungi to improve nutrient availability
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide.
True Organic All Purpose Plant Food Granular Fertilizer is a CDFA and OMRI-listed fertilizer crafted with 100% organic and natural ingredients.
The balanced 5-4-8 NPK ratio provides a well-rounded nutrient profile, supporting overall plant health and growth for your whole garden.
The ingredients used are the same high-quality, ethically sourced components employed by America’s organic produce growers.
This commitment to farm-to-table principles ensures that your lawn receives the best possible nutrition while promoting soil regeneration and healthier fruits and vegetables.
Price
$16.99
notable features
CDFA and OMRI Listed for organic gardening, made with 100% organic and natural ingredients, Balanced nutrient formula with an NPK ratio of 5-4-8, provides a well-rounded nutrient profile, Farm-grade quality made from the same high-quality, farm-grade ingredients used by America’s organic produce growers.
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide.
How to choose the right organic lawn fertilizer for your yard
Importance of Soil Testing
Before choosing an organic lawn fertilizer, it’s important to understand your soil’s current nutrient profile and pH level. The best way to gather this information is by conducting a soil test. You can purchase a soil testing kit from your local garden center or send a soil sample to a professional testing lab.
A soil test will reveal any nutrient deficiencies or imbalances in your soil, as well as its pH level. This information will help you select an organic fertilizer that addresses your soil’s specific needs, ensuring that your lawn receives the optimal blend of nutrients for healthy growth.
Considering Grass Types and Climate
Different grass types have varying nutrient requirements, so it’s important to choose an organic fertilizer that is tailored to your specific grass species. Cool-season grasses, such as fescue and bluegrass, have different needs compared to warm-season grasses like Bermuda and Zoysia.
Additionally, your local climate plays a role in determining the best organic fertilizer for your lawn. Some fertilizers are formulated to provide nutrients that help grass withstand specific environmental stresses, such as heat, drought, or cold temperatures. Consider the unique challenges your lawn faces throughout the year and select a fertilizer that supports its resilience.
Understanding NPK Ratios for Your Lawn’s Needs
Organic lawn fertilizers come in various NPK ratios, which represent the percentage of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) in the product. Each of these macronutrients plays a specific role in grass health and development.
Nitrogen promotes leaf growth and green color, phosphorus supports root development and energy transfer, while potassium enhances stress tolerance and overall plant health. The ideal NPK ratio for your lawn will depend on your grass type, soil conditions, and the specific growth stage or season.
Here are some general guidelines for selecting an appropriate NPK ratio:
- High nitrogen (e.g., 5-1-2): Ideal for promoting lush, green growth, especially during the active growing season.
- Balanced ratio (e.g., 4-3-2): Suitable for general lawn maintenance and supporting overall grass health.
- High potassium (e.g., 3-1-5): Beneficial for strengthening roots and preparing your lawn for dormancy or stress periods.
Seasonal Considerations
The nutritional needs of your lawn vary throughout the year, so it’s essential to choose an organic fertilizer that aligns with the current season.
Spring: Focus on a balanced NPK ratio or slightly higher nitrogen to support new growth and green-up after winter dormancy.
Summer: Opt for a fertilizer with a moderate nitrogen content to maintain steady growth without overstimulating the grass during the heat of summer.
Fall: Choose a high-potassium formula to strengthen roots and prepare your lawn for the upcoming winter months.
Be sure to follow the application instructions for your chosen organic fertilizer and avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth, disease susceptibility, and potential environmental harm.
Best way to apply organic fertilizer:
Achieving even distribution of your organic fertilizer is essential for promoting uniform growth and preventing patchy or burned areas in your lawn. Here are some of the best ways to evenly apply fertilizer to your lawn
Broadcast Spreader: A broadcast spreader is a gardening tool used to evenly distribute fertilizer, grass seed, or other granular materials over a large area. They come in various sizes, from small handheld models for gardens to large tow-behind spreaders for vast fields.
These spreaders utilize a rotating mechanism to disperse the material in a wide arc, ensuring consistent coverage. Ideal for larger lawns.
Drop Spreader: A drop spreader, also called a gravity spreader, is a gardening tool designed for precise application of fertilizer, grass seed, or other granular materials in a straight line. Unlike broadcast spreaders that disperse materials widely, drop spreaders are ideal for targeted areas like narrow strips, garden beds, or pathways.
Handheld Spreader: A handheld spreader is a small, portable gardening tool designed to distribute lawn fertilizer, grass seed, or other granular materials over small to medium-sized areas. These spreaders are operated manually, typically by turning a crank or squeezing a handle to dispense the material. Perfect for spot treatments or small, hard-to-reach areas.
Rake or Tiller: Use a rake or tiller to lightly incorporate the fertilizer into the top layer of soil. This method is ideal for granular or pelletized organic fertilizers
Watering After Application
After applying your organic fertilizer, it’s crucial to water your lawn thoroughly. Watering helps activate the fertilizer and allows the nutrients to penetrate the soil and reach the roots.
Water your lawn as soon as possible after applying the fertilizer, ideally within 24 hours.
This has been your comprehensive guide to organic lawn fertilizers!
Ditching the chemicals and going organic for your lawn isn’t just about having the greenest grass on the block. It’s about making a real difference for your family, your neighborhood, and the planet.
When you choose the right organic fertilizer you’re nurturing a mini-ecosystem right in your own backyard.
But this is bigger than just your lawn. Imagine if everyone started making the switch to organic. We could create a network of green spaces that are not only beautiful but also teeming with life.
Your yard becomes a part of something bigger– a cleaner environment, healthier communities, and a more sustainable planet.
