Examining the Differences Between Different Types of Fertilizer

Many homeowners and avid gardeners understand the benefits of using fertilizer to the support the overall health of their landscape and garden. However, it’s not always clear why certain types of fertilizer may be ideal for some situations and not for others. Knowing the pros and cons of each type can help you select the ideal fertilizer for your unique setting.

For instance, should you choose a liquid or granule fertilizer? Learn more about the differences between different types of fertilizers so that you can choose the best products for your landscape and garden.

Granular Fertilizers

Dry fertilizers are typically offered in granules. Many granular products are often formulated with a mix of fertilizing materials. One of the great advantages of granular fertilizer is that it’s easy to store. In most cases, it can be kept in your garden shed, garage, or other areas of your home where you store your landscape and garden gear. Many gardeners and landscapers prefer to use granule because fewer applications may be needed to support plant health and nutrition. Granules offer a slow-release of nutrients, so they invariably feed plants and crops longer into the growing season. Granules are also ideal for use in pre-planting applications.

Of course, there are some drawbacks to granules that are important to note. For instance, granule fertilizer tends to have a high salt content. This can burn leaves and compel roots to steer well away from those important nutrients that it needs for good health. Gardeners should also note that fertilizer granules are not uniform in terms of content. This means that some granules may be less packed with nutrients than others. Finally, granules are not ideal vehicles for certain types of nutrients such as phosphorus. Certain nutrients can be more effectively delivered in a liquid fertilizer.

Liquid Fertilizer

Many gardeners and landscapers prefer to use liquid fertilizer products because they generally are much easier to handle and apply. In fact, liquid applications tend to be more uniform and can be used at the beginning for the season and for in-season applications. Liquid fertilizers tend to be quick acting—certainly faster-acting than granule fertilizers. Because they act quickly, they often produce an immediate effect, which can be gratifying when searching for signs of good health among landscape plants and grasses.

As with granule products, liquid fertilizers also have some disadvantages that are important to be aware of. First, liquid products typically require more frequent applications. Additionally, gardeners really have to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter as errors can easily damage your plants. Liquid fertilizers are sometimes susceptible to volatilization, so they don’t store as easily as granules. Finally, some gardeners and landscapers may find it expensive to purchase equipment for applying liquid fertilizers; however, such equipment is typically a one-time investment.

Of course, you can always discuss your fertilizer needs with our helpful staff. We’re here to answer questions about our products and to help you choose the best ones to support your landscape’s health and well-being.