Cheapest Lawn Fertilizer: 10 Options Under $10

1. Grass Clippings (Free)

The most affordable lawn fertilizer is already at your disposal: grass clippings. These clippings contain essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and they can be easily applied to your lawn using a mulching mower or by spreading them evenly over the grass.

2. Coffee Grounds ($0.05/lb)

Coffee grounds are another excellent source of nitrogen, which is necessary for healthy grass growth. You can sprinkle coffee grounds directly on your lawn or add them to your compost pile.

3. Manure ($0.10/lb)

Animal manure, such as cow manure or horse manure, is a nutrient-rich fertilizer that can be used to improve the health of your lawn. Manure should be composted before applying it to your lawn to avoid burning the grass.

4. Alfalfa Meal ($0.15/lb)

Alfalfa meal is a dehydrated alfalfa plant that is high in nitrogen and other nutrients. It can be applied to your lawn at a rate of 10-20 pounds per 1,000 square feet.

5. Blood Meal ($0.20/lb)

Blood meal is a natural fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and iron. It can be applied to your lawn at a rate of 10-20 pounds per 1,000 square feet.

6. Bone Meal ($0.25/lb)

Bone meal is a natural fertilizer that is high in phosphorus and calcium. It can be applied to your lawn at a rate of 10-20 pounds per 1,000 square feet.

7. Feather Meal ($0.30/lb)

Feather meal is a natural fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and other nutrients. It can be applied to your lawn at a rate of 10-20 pounds per 1,000 square feet.

8. Kelp Meal ($0.35/lb)

Kelp meal is a natural fertilizer that is high in potassium and other nutrients. It can be applied to your lawn at a rate of 10-20 pounds per 1,000 square feet.

9. Fish Emulsion ($0.40/lb)

Fish emulsion is a liquid fertilizer that is made from fish scraps. It is high in nitrogen and other nutrients, and it can be applied to your lawn at a rate of 1-2 gallons per 1,000 square feet.

10. Commercial Fertilizer ($5-$10/lb)

If you need a quick and easy solution, commercial fertilizers are a good option. These fertilizers are available in a variety of formulas, and they can be applied to your lawn according to the directions on the package.

Table of Cheapest Lawn Fertilizers

Other Ways to Save Money on Lawn Fertilizer

In addition to using the cheapest lawn fertilizers, there are other ways to save money on your lawn care expenses.

• Mow your lawn regularly. Mowing your lawn regularly helps to keep it healthy and reduce the need for fertilizer.
• Water your lawn deeply and infrequently. Watering your lawn deeply and infrequently encourages deep root growth, which makes your lawn more resilient to drought and pests.
• Aerate your lawn. Aeration helps to improve drainage and air circulation in the soil, which can help your lawn absorb nutrients more effectively.
• Use a mulching mower. A mulching mower cuts the grass clippings into small pieces and returns them to the lawn, where they decompose and provide nutrients.
• Compost your lawn clippings. Composting your lawn clippings creates a nutrient-rich fertilizer that you can use on your lawn for free.

FAQs

Q: How often should I fertilize my lawn?

A: The frequency of fertilization depends on the type of grass you have, the soil conditions, and the climate. In general, most lawns should be fertilized 3-4 times per year.

Q: What is the best time to fertilize my lawn?

A: The best time to fertilize your lawn is in the spring and fall, when the grass is actively growing.

Q: How much fertilizer should I apply to my lawn?

A: The amount of fertilizer you should apply to your lawn depends on the type of fertilizer you are using and the size of your lawn. Always follow the directions on the package.

Q: What are the signs of over-fertilization?

A: The signs of over-fertilization include brown or yellow spots on the grass, rapid growth, and a spongy texture.

Q: What should I do if I over-fertilize my lawn?

A: If you over-fertilize your lawn, you should water it deeply to help dissolve the excess fertilizer. You can also apply a gypsum solution to help reduce the salt content in the soil.

Q: How can I tell if my lawn needs fertilizer?

A: The signs of a lawn that needs fertilizer include slow growth, yellow or brown patches, and a thin or weak appearance.