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A lawn fertilizer is easiest to compare by three things: the nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium ratio printed on the bag, how long the maker says it feeds, and which season it is meant for. The ratio shows the share of each nutrient, so check it before you compare bag sizes.
The picks below mix all-season granules, fall formulas, liquids and organic options. Each entry uses only what the maker or listing states. Where a value is missing, the table says Not stated rather than guessing.
Every specification on this page comes from each product’s Amazon listing, checked on 10 November 2026. We have not used these products ourselves, so the picks are based on published specifications only.
For beds and borders rather than turf, compare organic fertilizers for garden soil.
Quick picks
- Best for fall prep: Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food, 10 lbs.. Scotts directs it to fall use to prepare the lawn for winter.
- Best organic option: Espoma Turf-Tone All Season Organic Lawn Food with Iron & Exclusive Bio-Tone Formula – Slow Release Long Lasting Feeding for All Lawns – Granular Lawn Fertilizer for All Seasons – Made in USA, 28 lbs. Espoma describes it as organic with slow release nitrogen for spring, summer or fall.
- Best for quick liquid greening: Scotts Liquid Green Max Lawn Food, 32 fl. oz.. The bottle connects to a hose and Scotts says it gives green color in 3 days.
- Best for one application a season: Pennington Full Season Lawn Fertilizer 4M 32-0-5 RF 3/11.2Lb. Pennington says one application covers a season, with nitrogen released for up to 4 months.
Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food
Espoma Turf-Tone All Season Organic Lawn Food
Scotts Liquid Green Max Lawn Food, 32 fl. oz.
Pennington Full Season Lawn Fertilizer 4M 32-0-5
How we chose these
- Nutrient ratio The three-number ratio tells you how much nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium the bag contains, and the listing gives it for most picks here.
- Feeding timing Some makers state how many weeks a bag feeds, while others say to reapply on a schedule. Look for the timing that fits your lawn.
- Form and spreading Granules go on with a spreader, while liquids attach to a hose. The listing states the form for most picks.
- Coverage and bag size Each listing gives the square footage a bag covers, so match the bag to your lawn size.
Coverage and ratios are taken from each listing or title. Some listings leave out form, ratio or coverage, and the table marks those cells Not stated.
Comparison table
| Product | Coverage | Ratio | Form | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. GreenView Fairway Formula Fall | 7,500 sq. ft. | Not stated | Not stated | Fall feeding |
| 2. Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall | 4,000 sq. ft. | Not stated | Granules | Smaller lawns in fall |
| 3. The Andersons Fall Lawn Food 24-0-14 | 5,000 sq ft | 24-0-14 | Granules | Fall feeding before winter |
| 4. Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food | 5,000 sq. ft. | 32:0:4 | Powder | All-season feeding |
| 5. The Andersons Professional PGF Complete 16-4-8 | 5,000 sq ft | 16-4-8 | Granules | Season-long feeding |
| 6. The Andersons Core 24-6-12 | 6,200 sq. ft. | 24-6-12 | Granules | All-purpose feeding |
| 7. Pennington Full Season Lawn Fertilizer | 4,000 sq. ft. | 32-0-5 | Granules | One application per season |
| 8. PROXIO Lawn Fertilizer 16-4-8 with Humates | 11,000 sq. ft. | 16-4-8 | Granules | Large lawns with a spreader |
| 9. Scotts Liquid Green Max Lawn Food | 2,000 sq. ft. | 29-0-0 | Liquid spray | Quick liquid greening |
| 10. Scotts Natural Lawn Food | 4,000 sq. ft. | 11:2:2 | Powder | OMRI-listed feeding |
| 11. Espoma Turf-Tone All Season Organic Lawn Food | 5,000 sq. ft. | 9-0-1 | Granular | Organic feeding |
| 12. CountryMax Organic Lawn Fertilizer 10-6-4 | Not stated | 10-6-4 | Not stated | Slow release organic lawns |
Coverage and ratios are taken from each listing or title. Not stated means the listing did not give that value.
Fall and winter feeding
Fall formulas meant to feed grass before winter and support spring growth.
1. GreenView Fairway Formula Fall Lawn Fertilizer, 22.5 lb. Bag: for fall feeding and winter prep
Pros
- Brand says feeding lasts up to 12 weeks
- Listing says no phosphate
- Listing gives 7,500 sq. ft. coverage
Cons
- Ratio and form not stated in listing
- Listing says to apply in fall
GreenView says this fall formula feeds for up to 12 weeks and uses 59% slow-release nitrogen with no phosphate. The brand says it helps repair summer damage and prepare a lawn for winter. The listing says it is for any grass type and should be applied in fall.
- Listing gives a 22.5 lb bag size and 59% slow-release nitrogen (GreenView)
2. Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food, 10 lbs.: for fall prep on smaller lawns
Pros
- Brand targets fall prep for winter
- Listing says it works on any grass type
- Sized for smaller lawns per listing
Cons
- Ratio not stated in listing
- Listing directs fall use
Scotts says this fall product helps grass develop roots deep enough to support a stronger lawn the following spring. The maker says it supports recovery after hot summer weather, dry spells and everyday use. The listing says it can go down on damp or dry grass in autumn and suits any grass type.
- Listing gives a 10 lb bag that covers 4,000 sq. ft. (Scotts)
3. The Andersons Fall Lawn Food 24-0-14 Fertilizer 5,000 sq ft Bag: for a fall feeding step before winter
Pros
- Listing ties it to fall prep
- Includes iron
- Listing gives 5,000 sq ft coverage
Cons
- Listing refers to a lawn program but does not list the other steps
- Ratio shows no phosphorus
The Andersons calls this bag application 4 in its lawn program, aimed at feeding a lawn ahead of winter. The maker says a mix of fast, mid-speed and slow nitrogen release gives quick greening and longer feeding. The listing notes iron for deeper color and says it suits every turf type.
- Listing gives an 18 pound item weight and a 288 ounce unit count (The Andersons)
All-season granular
Granular fertilizers that the listings say can be used across much of the growing season.
4. Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food, 12.5 lbs.: for all-season feeding on any grass type
Pros
- Listing says it works on any grass type
- Can be applied wet or dry
- Covers 5,000 sq. ft. per listing
Cons
- Listing gives no feeding duration in weeks
- Ratio shows no phosphorus
Scotts says this pesticide-free lawn food is meant to feed and strengthen grass. The maker says it helps roots reach deeper so the turf can take up more water and nutrients. The listing says it can be put down on damp or dry grass during spring, summer or autumn.
- Listing gives a 12.5 lb item weight and 5,000 sq. ft. coverage (Scotts)
5. The Andersons Professional PGF Complete 16-4-8 Fertilizer with 7% Humic DG 5,000 sq ft: for season-long feeding with humic acid
Pros
- Listing says feeding lasts up to 8 weeks
- Includes iron and micronutrients
- Covers 5,000 sq ft per title
Cons
- Listing says not for sale in CA
- Spreader setting not stated in listing
The Andersons says this granular blend pairs fast and slow release nitrogen, giving immediate feeding plus extended feeding for as long as 8 weeks. The listing lists iron, micronutrients and Humic DG. The maker says its very fine granules spread more evenly.
- Listing gives an 18 pound item weight and a 4-1-2 ratio (The Andersons)
6. The Andersons Core 24-6-12 All-Purpose Lawn Fertilizer – 18 lbs.: for all-purpose spring to fall feeding
Pros
- Covers up to 6,200 sq. ft. per listing
- Listing says made in the USA
- Feeding up to 6 weeks per brand
Cons
- Listing says not for sale in MD
- Brand advises reapplying every 4 to 6 weeks
The Andersons calls this all-purpose granular a blend of fast and slow nitrogen, with feeding that lasts up to 6 weeks. The listing says it suits all turf types and can be applied in spring, summer and fall. The maker advises reapplying every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season.
- Listing gives an 18 lb weight and 6,200 sq. ft. coverage, and notes it is made in the USA (The Andersons)
7. Pennington Full Season Lawn Fertilizer 4M 32-0-5 RF 3/11.2Lb: for one application per season
Pros
- Brand says one application covers a season
- Slow release up to 4 months per listing
- Includes 5% iron
Cons
- Not available in Hawaii or South Dakota per listing
- Listing does not state fall use
Pennington says this spring product is one application for the whole season. The listing says polymer coated urea releases nitrogen slowly for up to 4 months. The maker adds 5% iron for deeper greening and natural beneficial microorganisms.
- Listing gives an 11.2 lb item weight and 4,000 sq. ft. coverage (Pennington)
8. PROXIO Lawn Fertilizer 16-4-8 with Humates for Grass, 11,000 sq ft All Turf, 40lb: for large lawns with a spreader
Pros
- Covers 11,000 sq. ft. per listing
- Up to 8 weeks of feeding per brand
- Works with most lawn spreaders
Cons
- Listing gives a 40 lb bag weight
- Feeding schedule beyond 8 weeks not stated
PROXIO describes this granular blend as offering quick and slow release nitrogen for up to 8 weeks of feeding. The listing says its Humic DG supports soil and root growth. The maker says its ultra fine granules spread evenly and work with most lawn spreaders.
- Listing gives a 40 lb item weight and 11,000 sq. ft. coverage (PROXIO)
Organic and liquid
Organic-listed granules and liquid sprays for quick feeding.
9. Scotts Liquid Green Max Lawn Food, 32 fl. oz.: for quick liquid greening with a hose
Pros
- Connects to a garden hose per listing
- Brand says results appear within 3 days
- Listing says it works on any grass type
Cons
- Refill bottles are sold separately
- Each bottle covers 2,000 sq. ft., so larger lawns need more bottles
Scotts says the 32 fl. oz. bottle covers a 2,000 sq. ft. lawn in about 10 minutes when hooked to a garden hose. The maker says its iron-boosted nitrogen formula produces a deeper green within 3 days. The listing says the bottle is see-through, so the amount used is easy to check.
- Listing describes a reusable spray applicator, with refill bottles sold apart (Scotts)
10. Scotts Natural Lawn Food: for organic-listed feeding in any season
Pros
- Listing says OMRI listed
- Any season use per listing
- Brand says it can be used around children and animals
Cons
- Frequency depends on label details the listing does not spell out
- Covers 4,000 sq. ft. per listing
Scotts describes this as a natural product that builds a thick, green lawn. The listing says it is OMRI listed and can go down in any season, up to four times a year, following label directions. The maker says it is safe to walk on right after it goes down and is suitable around children and animals.
- Listing gives a 29.1 lb item weight and says it works with a Scotts drop or rotary spreader (Scotts)
11. Espoma Turf-Tone All Season Organic Lawn Food with Iron & Exclusive Bio-Tone Formula – Slow Release Long Lasting Feeding for All Lawns – Granular Lawn Fertilizer for All Seasons – Made in USA, 28 lbs: for organic feeding in spring, summer or fall
Pros
- Organic per brand
- Spreads with a drop or broadcast spreader
- Espoma says its family has made fertilizer since 1929
Cons
- Listing does not state a feeding duration in weeks
- Needs a spreader per listing
Espoma describes this lawn food as organic, based on natural materials, and suited to spring, summer or fall. The maker says its slow release nitrogen (9-0-1) gives deep green color 3X longer than conventional fertilizers. Espoma says it avoids scorching turf and does not wash out of the ground.
- Listing gives a 28 lb bag size and says it is made in USA (Espoma)
12. CountryMax Organic Lawn Fertilizer 36 lb 10-6-4 Slow Release Formula: for organic slow release on new or established lawns
Pros
- Slow release per listing
- Brand says it helps roots and turf recover
- 36 lb bag per title
Cons
- Coverage not stated
- Form not stated
CountryMax says this 10-6-4 organic lawn fertilizer releases slowly and feeds grass over time. The listing says it targets new and established lawns and supports root growth. The brand says it can help turf bounce back after drought, insects or other stress.
- Listing gives a 36 lb size in the title and a 10-6-4 ratio (CountryMax)
Which one fits you
| Your situation | Look at | Why |
|---|---|---|
| You want fall prep before winter | Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall or GreenView Fairway Formula Fall | Both listings direct fall use |
| You want organic inputs | Espoma Turf-Tone or CountryMax Organic | Both are described as organic in the maker or listing text |
| You want a quick liquid green-up | Scotts Liquid Green Max | The listing describes a hose-connected bottle and a 32 fl. oz. size |
| You want one application for a season | Pennington Full Season | The listing says one application covers a season and nitrogen releases for up to 4 months |
Practical tips
- Read the three-number ratio on the bag and compare it across picks before you compare brands.
- Match the bag to your lawn size using the coverage figure, and check whether the listing states it.
- Look at the season printed on the label, since fall formulas are listed for fall use.
- Check any state restrictions in the listing before you order.
FAQ
What does the ratio on a lawn fertilizer bag mean?
The three numbers give the share of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in the product. Compare the ratio across the table, and note where a listing shows Not stated.
Can I use a fall fertilizer in spring?
Several fall picks are labeled for fall use in their listings, such as the Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food. Check the label before using one at another time of year.
Do organic fertilizers feed more slowly?
Espoma says its slow release nitrogen feeds longer than conventional fertilizers, and CountryMax describes its formula as slow release. Follow each bag’s directions for timing.
Sources
Specifications from each product’s Amazon listing, checked 10 November 2026: GreenView Fairway Formula Fall Lawn Fertilizer, 22.5 lb. Bag, Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food, 10 lbs., The Andersons Fall Lawn Food 24-0-14 Fertilizer 5,000 sq ft Bag, Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food, 12.5 lbs., The Andersons Professional PGF Complete 16-4-8 Fertilizer with 7% Humic DG 5,000 sq ft, The Andersons Core 24-6-12 All-Purpose Lawn Fertilizer – 18 lbs., Pennington Full Season Lawn Fertilizer 4M 32-0-5 RF 3/11.2Lb, PROXIO Lawn Fertilizer 16-4-8 with Humates for Grass, 11,000 sq ft All Turf, 40lb, Scotts Liquid Green Max Lawn Food, 32 fl. oz., Scotts Natural Lawn Food, Espoma Turf-Tone All Season Organic Lawn Food with Iron & Exclusive Bio-Tone Formula – Slow Release Long Lasting Feeding for All Lawns – Granular Lawn Fertilizer for All Seasons – Made in USA, 28 lbs, CountryMax Organic Lawn Fertilizer 36 lb 10-6-4 Slow Release Formula. Makers can change specifications; check the product page before you buy.
About Emily Parker
Emily Parker is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our vegetable & edible gardening guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
