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If you want a thick, green lawn without synthetic chemicals, finding the best all natural lawn fertilizer is a smart move. Natural fertilizers feed the soil and grass with organic or naturally derived nutrients, reducing the risk of burning your turf or harming beneficial insects. Many homeowners switch to natural options to keep their yards safe for kids and pets, and to avoid the runoff that can affect local waterways. In this guide, we look at 10 of the most popular all natural lawn fertilizers available as of October 2026.

Whether you are dealing with patchy spots, slow growth, or just want a more eco-friendly lawn care routine, there is a natural fertilizer that fits your needs. Some products work fast to green up the grass within a few days, while others release nutrients slowly over several weeks. We have included options from trusted brands like Scotts, SimpleLawnSolutions, Greenview, and Milorganite, with prices ranging from $16.69 to $70.99. For those also interested in improving soil quality, check out our guide on garden soil amendments to complement your fertilizing routine.

1
Best Seller

Scotts Natural Lawn Food 29.1 lbs

Scotts
9.9 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
Scotts Natural Lawn Food is an OMRI-listed organic fertilizer that builds a thick, green lawn safely around kids and pets. Ideal for homeowners wanting an effective, natural lawn care solution that can be applied any season.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Natural formula safe for children and pets
  • Works in any season for year-round feeding
  • Compatible with all common grass types
  • Covers a large area with one bag
  • No waiting to walk on lawn after application

Cons

  • May require multiple applications for best results
  • Organic formula may take longer to show visible greening than synthetic fertilizers
  • Price is higher than some conventional lawn foods
Detailed Review

If you are looking for an effective lawn fertilizer that aligns with an organic lifestyle, Scotts Natural Lawn Food is a solid choice. This OMRI-listed product is designed to feed all grass types and can be applied at any time of year, making it convenient for homeowners who want a simple, natural approach to lawn care. It is particularly well-suited for families with children and pets, as it is safe to walk on immediately after application.

The standout feature of this fertilizer is its natural formulation. It builds a thick, green lawn without relying on synthetic chemicals, which is a huge plus for environmentally conscious gardeners. The 29.1-pound bag covers up to 4,000 square feet, offering good value for larger lawns. Application is straightforward using a Scotts drop or rotary spreader, and you can feed your lawn up to four times per year, adjusting to your local growing season.

In terms of real-world performance, users can expect gradual, steady greening rather than the quick burst from synthetic fertilizers. This is typical of organic products and is actually healthier for the soil in the long run. The granules are easy to spread and don't clump, though you may need to water them in lightly for best results. Build quality is what you would expect from Scotts: a reputable brand with consistent formulation.

One potential drawback is the price, which is higher than many conventional lawn foods. Also, if you are accustomed to seeing rapid results, the natural action may feel slower. However, for those committed to organic lawn care, these trade-offs are well worth it. The product does not contain any weed or pest control, so you will need to address those separately.

Overall, Scotts Natural Lawn Food delivers on its promise of a natural, safe, and effective lawn feeding solution. It earns a strong recommendation for families, pet owners, and anyone looking to maintain a lush lawn without synthetic chemicals. Just be patient and follow the label instructions for the best results.

2
Editor's Pick

Scotts Natural Lawn Fertilizer (2-Pack)

Scotts
9.5 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
This Scotts Natural Lawn Fertilizer 2-pack covers 4,000 sq ft and builds a thick green lawn without synthetic chemicals. It's OMRI listed, safe for kids and pets, and can be applied any season to any grass type.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Made from natural ingredients, so it's gentle on the environment
  • Safe for kids and pets immediately after spreading
  • Works on all grass types and in any season – no special timing needed
  • OMRI listing provides third-party verification of its organic suitability
  • Large coverage area (4,000 sq ft) reduces number of applications needed

Cons

  • May take longer to show visible greening compared to synthetic fast-release fertilizers
  • Pellets need to be watered in to activate fully; less effective if rain is scarce
  • Cost per square foot might be higher than some synthetic options
Detailed Review

The Scotts Natural Lawn Fertilizer (2-Pack) offers a straightforward way to feed your lawn without turning to synthetic chemicals. This 29.1-pound pack covers 4,000 square feet and is formulated for homeowners who want a greener lawn but prefer a more natural approach. It's OMRI listed, meaning it meets strict organic standards, and it's safe for kids and pets right after application – no waiting period required.

What sets this fertilizer apart is its convenience and flexibility. You can apply it any time of year and to any grass type, which takes the guesswork out of lawn care. The granules release nutrients slowly, feeding the grass steadily rather than causing a quick growth spurt. While this slow release is gentler on the lawn and the environment, it does mean you won't see an overnight transformation. Patience is key here – expect gradual, natural greening over a few weeks.

The packaging is durable and resealable, making storage easy, though the 29.1-pound bag is hefty to carry around the yard. A wheeled spreader will make application much easier if you have a large lawn. One thing to note: the fertilizer needs moisture to activate, so unless you time it with rain, you'll need to water it in. That's an extra step not required with some liquid synthetics, but it's a small trade-off for a natural product.

As for drawbacks, the main one is speed. If you're looking for a quick green-up before a party or event, this isn't your best bet. Also, the price per square foot is a bit higher than some synthetic alternatives, but you're paying for the peace of mind that comes with OMRI certification and pet-safe ingredients. Overall, this is a solid choice for eco-conscious homeowners who want a healthy lawn without harsh chemicals. It delivers on its promises if you're willing to wait a bit and follow the instructions.

3
Limited Time

Scotts O.M. Scott & Sons Natural Grass Food

Scotts
9.8 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
O.M. Scott & Sons Natural Grass Food is a natural lawn fertilizer that feeds your grass for up to 10 weeks using premium natural nutrients. It's safe for kids and pets when used as directed and covers 2,000 sq ft per 12.72 lb bag.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Natural formula with no synthetic additives or pesticides
  • Long-lasting feeding period of up to 10 weeks reduces application frequency
  • Safe for families and pets when applied as directed
  • Recyclable packaging supports eco-friendly lawn care
  • Works on any grass type for broad usability

Cons

  • Requires immediate watering after application to activate the fertilizer
  • May need multiple bags for lawns larger than 2,000 sq ft
  • Results may be slower than synthetic fertilizers for those seeking quick greening
Detailed Review

O.M. Scott & Sons Natural Grass Food is a natural lawn fertilizer that delivers a steady stream of nutrients for up to 10 weeks. It is made from premium natural ingredients, free from synthetic additives and pesticides. This makes it an excellent choice for homeowners who want a healthy lawn without exposing their family or pets to harsh chemicals.

The standout feature is its extended feeding schedule. You water it in right after applying, and it starts working immediately while continuing to nourish the grass for over two months. That means fewer applications over the season compared to conventional fertilizers. The formula focuses on strengthening grass from the roots up, which helps it handle foot traffic and drought better.

Coverage is straightforward: one 12.72 lb bag handles 2,000 square feet. The product is safe for all common grass types, so you do not need to worry about compatibility. The packaging is another plus the bag is made of recyclable paper. After use, you can toss it in your curbside recycling bin.

On the downside, this fertilizer requires careful watering immediately after application to activate it. If you skip that step, it will not work as intended. Also, for lawns larger than 2,000 square feet, you will need to buy extra bags. And because it is natural, the greening effect is gradual rather than instant. You will not see the dramatic color change that synthetic fertilizers offer.

Overall, O.M. Scott & Sons Natural Grass Food is a solid, eco-friendly option for anyone prioritizing natural lawn care. It is safe, effective over time, and easy to use. If you are okay with a slower, more sustainable approach to feeding your lawn, this product delivers.

4
Top Rated

Safer Brand Lawn Restore Natural Lawn Fertilizer

Safer
9.6 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
This natural 9-0-2 fertilizer from Safer Brand strengthens grass roots and greens up lawns within 3 to 5 days without burning. Ideal for homeowners seeking a pet- and kid-safe option that also helps grass withstand heat, cold, and drought.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Fast greening within days of application
  • Non-burning and safe for pets and children
  • Strengthens roots and improves drought tolerance
  • Covers a large area (5,000 sq ft) per bag

Cons

  • Low nitrogen content (9-0-2) may not be ideal for nitrogen-hungry lawns
  • Only one size available (20 lbs) which may be too much or too little for some users
Detailed Review

Safer Brand Lawn Restore Natural Lawn Fertilizer (model 9335SR) is a 9-0-2 NPK formula designed to revive tired lawns by strengthening root systems. It's a great pick for homeowners who want a natural, non-burning fertilizer that won't harm pets or kids. The product covers up to 5,000 square feet, so it works well for medium to large yards.

One standout feature is how quickly it works. Users report seeing a greener lawn within 3 to 5 days after application. That's faster than many organic options, which can take weeks. The non-burning formula is also a big plus. It's made from naturally derived ingredients that won't scorch your grass or strip the soil of nutrients, even if you accidentally over-apply.

The design is straightforward. It comes in a 20-pound bag with a simple spreader-friendly texture. Application is easy with a standard lawn spreader, and because it's safe for kids and pets immediately after use, you don't have to worry about keeping the family off the grass. The product also helps grass withstand environmental stresses like heat, cold, and drought, making it a solid choice for year-round lawn care.

On the downside, the 9-0-2 NPK ratio is low in nitrogen. If your lawn is particularly hungry for nitrogen or you're trying to address severe yellowing, this might not be the best pick. You may need to supplement with a higher-nitrogen fertilizer or apply more frequently. Also, the bag size is fixed at 20 pounds, which might be too much for a small yard or not enough for a very large one.

Overall, Safer Brand Lawn Restore is a reliable, natural fertilizer that delivers fast greening and root support without burning. It's perfect for eco-conscious homeowners who want a safe, effective product for their lawn. Just be mindful of its nitrogen content if your grass needs a bigger boost.

5

Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food 12.5 lb

Scotts
9.5 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
This Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food is a versatile, pesticide-free fertilizer that strengthens grass roots and works on any grass type. Ideal for homeowners seeking a simple, effective feed for spring, summer, or fall application.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Works on any grass type
  • Pesticide-free and safe around children and pets
  • Strengthens roots for long-term lawn health
  • Flexible application timing spring, summer, or fall
  • Generous coverage area for the price

Cons

  • May require multiple applications for optimal results
  • 12.5 lb bag may not be enough for very large lawns
  • No verified customer reviews to confirm performance
Detailed Review

The Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food is a straightforward, no-fuss fertilizer designed for homeowners who want a healthier lawn without complicated steps. It works on any grass type, so you don't have to worry about compatibility. Whether you have Bermuda, Fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass, or Zoysia, this product claims to feed and strengthen your turf effectively.

One standout feature is its focus on root development. By building deep, strong roots, the grass becomes better at absorbing water and nutrients compared to an unfed lawn. This can lead to improved drought tolerance and overall resilience. The formula is pesticide-free, which is a plus for those concerned about chemicals around kids and pets. Application is simple: you can spread it on a wet or dry lawn during spring, summer, or fall, making it a flexible choice for busy schedules.

The 12.5 lb bag covers up to 5,000 square feet, which is suitable for medium-sized yards. However, if your lawn is larger, you may need multiple bags. The product itself is lightweight (listed at 0.5 pounds, though that seems like a data error for a 12.5 lb bag). In practice, you'll want to use a spreader for even coverage. There are no reviews available yet, so real-world feedback is limited, but Scotts is a well-known brand in lawn care.

Potential drawbacks include the need for repeated applications to maintain results, as most fertilizers require regular feeding. Also, without user reviews, it's hard to gauge how well it performs in different climates or soil types. But based on the features, it's a solid choice for anyone looking for a general-purpose lawn food that's easy to use.

Overall, the Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food offers a reliable way to feed your lawn without overcomplicating the process. If you're after a simple, effective fertilizer that works on all grass types and builds strong roots, this is worth considering. Just be prepared to reapply as needed for the best results.

6

GreenView Turf Nurture Natural Base Lawn

Greenview
9.8 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
The GreenView Turf Nurture is a natural lawn fertilizer that combines fast-acting organic nutrients with 70% slow-release nitrogen for sustained feeding. Safe for kids and pets, it reduces stress from drought and cold, works on any grass type, and shows visible results in 4-6 weeks. Ideal for homeowners wanting an effective, eco-friendly lawn food.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Uses natural organic ingredients for gentle, effective feeding
  • Slow-release nitrogen provides weeks of continuous nourishment
  • Safe for families and pets with proper application
  • Works across seasons and grass varieties
  • Concentrated: less product needed per square foot

Cons

  • Results take 4-6 weeks, so patience is required
  • May need multiple applications for severe lawn damage
  • 8.33 lb bag can be bulky for small storage spaces
Detailed Review

The GreenView Turf Nurture Natural Base Lawn Fertilizer is a thoughtfully formulated lawn food ideal for homeowners who want effective results without harsh chemicals. This 8.33-pound bag delivers a blend of natural and organic nutrients that feed the grass quickly while also releasing nitrogen slowly over time. It's designed to work on any type of grass and can be applied in spring, summer, or fall, making it a versatile choice for year-round lawn care.

What sets this fertilizer apart is its 70% slow-release nitrogen, which means the grass gets a steady supply of food for weeks instead of a quick spike. That encourages deeper root growth and helps the lawn stay greener longer. The formula also helps reduce stress from drought, heat, and cold, so the grass is tougher when weather gets extreme. And because it's made with natural ingredients, it's safe to use around children and pets when you follow the directions.

Performance-wise, GreenView says you'll see visible results in four to six weeks. In practice, that timeline is realistic for most lawns. The concentrated nature of the product is a big plus: one pound of Turf Nurture covers roughly the same area as four pounds of conventional fertilizers. That means less hauling and more coverage per bag. However, if your lawn has significant bare spots or damage, you might need more than one application to get full recovery.

One honest drawback is the waiting period. If you're used to fast-acting synthetic fertilizers, the slower pace of a natural, slow-release product might test your patience. Also, the 8.33-pound bag is fairly heavy and may be awkward to handle if you have a smaller lawn. But for those willing to wait, the long-term benefits to soil health and grass vitality are worth it.

Overall, the GreenView Turf Nurture is a solid choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lawn with a product that's both effective and environmentally conscious. It delivers on its promises of gentle, sustained feeding and stress reduction. If you have kids or pets and want a fertilizer you can trust, this one earns a strong recommendation.

7

Scotts O.M. Scott and Sons Natural Grass Food Lawn

Scotts
9.5 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
This natural lawn fertilizer from Scotts uses premium natural nutrients to feed grass for up to 10 weeks. It's safe for kids and pets when used as directed, making it a solid choice for homeowners who want an effective, no-worry lawn care solution.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Natural formula with no synthetic additives or pesticides
  • Long-lasting feeding for up to 10 weeks per application
  • Safe for children and pets when used as directed
  • Generous coverage of 4,000 sq. ft. with the 2-pack
  • Recyclable packaging supports eco-friendly disposal

Cons

  • Requires immediate watering after application to activate feeding
  • May take longer to show results compared to synthetic fertilizers
  • Limited customer reviews available to gauge real-world performance
Detailed Review

The O.M. Scott and Sons Natural Grass Food is a lawn fertilizer that leans on natural ingredients to feed your grass. This 2-pack bundle covers up to 4,000 square feet, making it a practical choice for homeowners with medium to large lawns. It's designed to strengthen grass from the roots up, using nutrients found in nature rather than synthetic chemicals.

One of the standout features is its feeding duration. After you water the lawn immediately following application, the fertilizer starts working and continues feeding for up to 10 weeks. That means fewer applications over the growing season, which saves you time and effort. The product is also safe for use around kids and pets when you follow the label directions, so you don't have to worry about keeping the family off the grass for long.

The packaging is another thoughtful touch. The fertilizer comes in a recyclable paper bag, so you can toss it in your curbside recycling bin after use. It's a small but welcome detail for anyone trying to reduce household waste. The formula works on all grass types, which adds to its versatility.

On the downside, this natural fertilizer may not provide the instant green-up you'd get from a synthetic product. It's designed for steady, gradual nourishment, so patience is key. Also, you must water it in right away to activate the feeding, which could be a hassle if you're on a tight schedule or dealing with drought restrictions.

Overall, the O.M. Scott and Sons Natural Grass Food is a reliable option for homeowners who prefer natural lawn care. It delivers consistent nutrition over a long period, is safe for family and pets, and comes in eco-friendly packaging. If you're okay with a slower, more natural approach to lawn health, this is a solid buy.

Specifications

Product: O.M. Scott and Sons Natural Grass Food (2-Pack)

Size: 2 Pack (two 12.72 lb. bags)

Coverage: Each bag covers 2,000 sq. ft. (total 4,000 sq. ft.)

Dimensions: 9 x 9.13 x 14 inches per bag

Weight: 26.64 pounds total

Product Group: Lawn & Patio

Binding: Unknown Binding

8
Prime

Simple Lawn Solutions 16-4-8 Liquid Lawn

SimpleLawnSolutions
9.5 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
This is a balanced NPK liquid fertilizer designed to green up and strengthen any lawn type quickly and safely. It stands out for its ease of application and fast, visible results. Anyone with a lawn needing a nutrient boost, from neglected yards to routine maintenance, should consider it.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Delivers noticeably greener grass within 24-48 hours of application.
  • Extremely easy to apply with a standard garden sprayer, no heavy spreading required.
  • Concentrated formula offers good value and coverage for the price.
  • Suitable for rehabilitating stressed or nutrient-deficient lawns effectively.

Cons

  • As a liquid, it may require more frequent applications than some slow-release granular fertilizers.
  • The benefits rely on proper lawn watering to ensure nutrients are absorbed into the soil.
Detailed Review

The Simple Lawn Solutions 16-4-8 Liquid Fertilizer is a concentrated nutrient spray designed for homeowners who want a lush, green lawn without the hassle of granular products. It's ideal for anyone with common grass types, from those trying to revive a neglected yard to gardeners performing routine seasonal feeding. The balanced NPK ratio targets overall lawn health, making it a great foundational product for most situations.

Performance is where this product truly shines. Users consistently report a rapid greening effect, often visible within a day or two. The liquid format allows nutrients to be immediately available to the grass, leading to faster results than you'd typically see with solids. Reviews highlight its effectiveness on various grass types and its ability to strengthen lawns that have been stressed by weather, drought, or previous chemical treatments. It provides a noticeable boost in color and thickness without the burn risk associated with some high-nitrogen fertilizers.

From a usability standpoint, the design is straightforward. The concentrate mixes with water in any standard tank or hose-end sprayer, making application a simple, one-person job. There's no heavy bag to haul or uneven spreading to worry about. The formula includes seaweed and fish emulsion, which are excellent organic additives that help condition the soil and improve the efficiency of the primary nutrients. It's made in the USA with quality ingredients, which adds a layer of trust for many buyers.

There are a couple of considerations. Because it's a liquid that's readily absorbed, the effects aren't as long-lasting as some slow-release granular options. You'll likely need to reapply every 4-6 weeks during the growing season for sustained results. Also, like any fertilizer, its success is tied to proper lawn care practices, especially adequate watering after application to move the nutrients into the root zone.

The final verdict is that Simple Lawn Solutions 16-4-8 is an excellent, no-fuss liquid fertilizer that does exactly what it promises. It delivers fast greening and healthy growth for virtually any lawn type with minimal effort. If you value convenience and visible results over the extended timeline of granular fertilizers, this is a top-tier choice that has earned its strong reputation.

Specifications & Use

Primary Use: Balanced lawn feeding and greening for spring and summer.

Grass Compatibility: Bermuda, St. Augustine, Zoysia, Buffalo, Centipede, Florida Palmetto, Bahia, Fescue, Ryegrass, Kentucky Bluegrass.

NPK Ratio: 16-4-8 (Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium).

Additional Ingredients: Contains seaweed and fish emulsion.

Form: Liquid concentrate.

Mixing Ratio: 3-5 fl. oz. per gallon of water.

Application: Apply with a hose-end or tank sprayer to a moist lawn. Water thoroughly after application.

Best For: General lawn maintenance, correcting nutrient deficiencies, and quick green-up.

9

Milorganite 32 lb Eco-Friendly Slow-Release

Milorganite
9.4 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
This 32-pound bag of Milorganite is a slow-release, eco-friendly fertilizer with a 6-4-0 N-P-K ratio, ideal for lawns, flowers, and vegetable gardens. Its iron-rich formula greens grass without staining concrete or burning plants, and the included brochure provides handy seasonal tips. Best for gardeners who want a safe, low-maintenance feeding option that won't risk over-fertilization.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • No risk of burning grass even in summer heat or drought
  • Slow-release action means you apply less often, saving time and effort
  • Works on a wide range of plants, from lawns to vegetables
  • Iron enhances green color without leaving streaks or stains on sidewalks
  • Includes a helpful brochure with spreader settings and seasonal schedule

Cons

  • Has a distinct earthy smell that some people find unpleasant, especially right after application
  • Results may take longer to appear compared to fast-acting synthetic fertilizers
  • The 32-pound bag is heavy and may be hard to carry for some users
Detailed Review

Milorganite is a well-known name in lawn care, and this 32-pound bag of slow-release nitrogen 6-4-0 fertilizer lives up to its reputation. It is designed for anyone who wants a lush, green lawn or productive garden without the worry of burning plants. Because it is made from heat-dried microbes that recycle organic matter, it feeds the soil as well as the plants. This makes it a smart choice for eco-conscious gardeners and those with children or pets who play on the lawn.

The standout feature is the slow-release nitrogen, which provides a steady supply of nutrients for up to 10 weeks. You don't have to water it in, and the low salt content means you can apply it even during hot, dry spells without damaging your grass. I also like that the iron is organically complex, so it greens up the lawn without leaving unsightly stains on concrete walkways or patios. In real-world use, that is a huge plus for anyone with a lot of hardscaping.

The included brochure is a nice bonus. It gives you clear seasonal application timing, spreader settings for different models, and tips for lawns, trees, and gardens. That takes the guesswork out of fertilizing, especially if you are new to organic products. The bag itself is sturdy but a bit unwieldy at 32 pounds, so be prepared to lift it carefully.

On the downside, Milorganite has a characteristic odor that some people find off-putting. It smells like processed biosolids, which is what it is. The smell fades after a few days, but it might be strong right after spreading. Also, because it is slow release, you won't see a dramatic green-up overnight. It takes a week or two for the full color to develop. That is normal for organic fertilizers, but if you want fast results, a synthetic product might be a better fit.

Overall, this is a reliable, easy-to-use fertilizer that delivers consistent results for lawns and gardens. The non-burning formula and iron for deep green color are its best qualities. If you prefer a natural approach and don't mind the mild smell, it is a solid buy. I recommend it for homeowners who want to feed their yard safely and sustainably.

10
Prime

Scotts Turf Builder Starter Food for New Grass

Scotts
9.7 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
This starter fertilizer from Scotts is formulated specifically for new grass, helping it establish roots and grow 70% thicker and 35% quicker than unfed lawns. It's an easy-to-use choice for anyone planting seed, sod, or plugs, and it works on any grass type.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Proven to deliver measurable thickness and speed of growth based on thousands of positive reviews
  • Simple application instructions that reduce the risk of over or under fertilizing
  • Versatile enough for new lawns, overseeding, and even sod or grass plugs
  • Trusted brand that has been a staple in lawn care for decades

Cons

  • Does not include any weed preventer, so you'll need a separate product if weeds are an issue
  • Requires consistent daily watering after application, which can be demanding during dry spells
  • Some users might prefer a formula with extra iron for deeper greening, though this one focuses on root growth
Detailed Review

Scotts Turf Builder Starter Food for New Grass is a specially formulated fertilizer designed to give your lawn the best possible start. It targets the critical early stages of grass growth, whether you're planting seed in a bare patch, installing sod, or using grass plugs to fill in thin areas. The 24-25-4 nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium ratio is tailored to encourage deep roots and vigorous top growth, which is exactly what young grass needs to compete with weeds and withstand foot traffic.

In real-world use, this product lives up to its claims. Based on numerous customer reviews, it reliably produces a thicker, greener lawn within weeks. Many users report seeing noticeable improvement after the first few waterings, especially when they follow the spreader settings and watering schedule. The fertilizer is easy to apply with a standard broadcast or drop spreader, and the bag clearly states the correct settings for Scotts models. This simplicity helps avoid common mistakes like applying too much or too little.

Build quality is typical of Scotts: a sturdy, resealable bag with clear instructions. The granular form spreads evenly and dissolves well with watering. One potential drawback is that it lacks weed control, so if your lawn has existing weeds you'll need to address them separately. Also, the need for daily watering until the grass reaches 2 inches tall can be a challenge for those with busy schedules or water restrictions. Some users also note that the greening effect isn't as dramatic as some all-in-one fertilizers, but that's by design because this product prioritizes root establishment.

Overall, Scotts Turf Builder Starter Food is a solid investment for anyone serious about growing a new lawn from scratch or repairing patches. Its high rating and volume of positive feedback confirm that it consistently delivers. For the best results, pair it with Scotts grass seed and follow the label's watering guidelines. You'll be rewarded with a lush, healthy lawn that stays green throughout the season.

Frequently Asked Questions About All Natural Lawn Fertilizers

1. What is considered an all natural lawn fertilizer?

An all natural lawn fertilizer typically uses ingredients derived from plant, animal, or mineral sources rather than synthetic chemicals. Common ingredients include composted poultry litter, bone meal, seaweed, fish emulsion, and rock minerals. These products often have lower NPK numbers but feed the soil biology over time. Many gardeners prefer them for pet-safe lawns and to avoid chemical runoff. You can find more tips on natural lawn care in our fertilizer category.

2. How often should I apply natural lawn fertilizer?

Most natural fertilizers are designed to be applied every 6 to 10 weeks during the growing season. Some products, like Scotts Natural Lawn Food, can be used up to four times per year. Always follow the label instructions for your specific grass type and climate. Over-applying can still cause excess nutrient buildup, but natural options are generally more forgiving than synthetic ones.

3. Will natural lawn fertilizer burn my grass?

One of the main benefits of all natural lawn fertilizers is that they are much less likely to burn your grass compared to synthetic products. Many natural formulas, like Milorganite and Safer Brand Lawn Restore, are non-burning because they release nitrogen slowly. However, it is still possible to overapply any fertilizer, so measure carefully and water after application if the label recommends it.

4. Can I use natural fertilizer on a new lawn?

Yes, several natural fertilizers are suitable for new grass. Products like Scotts Turf Builder Starter Food (which is a synthetic blend) are popular for seeding, but there are natural starters as well. For a fully natural approach, look for a fertilizer with a higher phosphorus content (the middle number) to encourage root growth. Always check the label to ensure it is safe for new sod or seed.

5. Are natural lawn fertilizers safe for pets?

Most all natural lawn fertilizers are considered safe for pets once they are watered in and the lawn is dry. Products like GreenView Turf Nurture and Scotts Natural Lawn Food are labeled as safe for use around kids and pets when used as directed. However, it is still a good idea to keep pets off the lawn during application and until the granules have dissolved. For more pet-friendly lawn tips, see our article on pet-safe lawn weed killer and fertilizer.