Whether you’ve recently laid turf or are simply looking to improve the health and appearance of your garden lawn, choosing the right fertiliser can make all the difference. With a wide range of products available, it’s important to understand how different types of fertiliser work so you can decide what’s best for your lawn.

At its core, fertiliser provides your grass with essential nutrients to support healthy growth. The three key elements are nitrogen, which encourages lush green blades; phosphorus, which supports root development; and potassium, which helps the plant build strength and resistance to stress. The way these nutrients are delivered can vary significantly depending on the type of fertiliser you choose.

Conventional fertilisers, often referred to as quick-release or straight fertilisers, are widely available and typically provide nutrients that are immediately available to the grass. These products are usually synthetic and can deliver rapid green-up, which is especially appealing if you’re looking for quick results. However, the effects can be short-lived, and they may need to be applied more frequently. Because the nutrients are released quickly, there is also a higher risk of leaching (especially during wet weather) or scorching if applied incorrectly. While they can play a role in lawn care especially as a weed, feed and mosskiller formulation, and for short-term fixes, they tend to require more regular maintenance and timing to get the best results.

Organic fertilisers are derived from natural sources such as composted plant matter, seaweed, or animal by-products. They’re ideal for gardeners who are focused on sustainability and want to improve the long-term health of their soil. Organic products tend to release nutrients slowly and rely on microbial activity in the soil, which means they are less predictable in how and when they feed the grass. While this gradual approach can be beneficial over time, it may not always meet the demands of an actively growing lawn or newly laid turf that needs consistent nutrition to establish properly.

Organo-mineral fertilisers provide a useful middle ground for many gardeners. These are blends of organic and mineral (or synthetic) fertilisers, combining the soil-conditioning benefits of organic matter with the more immediate, targeted nutrient supply of mineral sources. This hybrid approach can offer the best of both worlds: a boost to soil biology and structure, alongside reliable feeding that supports visible lawn performance. They’re especially useful in gardens where the soil may be depleted or compacted and where a slow-starting organic-only programme might not provide fast enough results.

Controlled-release fertilisers offer a more measured and predictable way of feeding your lawn. These products are designed to release nutrients steadily over several weeks or months, depending on soil temperature and moisture. This slow, controlled release supports steady growth, reduces the risk of nutrient loss through leaching, and avoids the peaks and troughs of growth that can occur with traditional quick-release fertilisers. For homeowners who want visible, long-lasting results with less effort, controlled-release fertilisers are a very practical solution.

These products are increasingly popular among professional turf growers, landscapers, and grounds maintenance teams because they offer consistent performance and excellent value over time. In recent years, more of these professional-grade technologies have become available to homeowners in easy-to-use formats, making it possible to achieve a greener, healthier lawn without regular reapplication or specialist knowledge.

Of course, the best choice depends on your specific situation. If you’re someone who enjoys hands-on gardening and wants to build long-term soil health, organic fertilisers may suit you well. If you’re looking for a combination of natural and fast-acting results, organo-mineral options could be ideal. But if you prefer a more low-maintenance approach or have recently laid new turf and need dependable nutrition to aid establishment, a quality controlled-release fertiliser may be the better choice.

Ultimately, feeding your lawn—whether organically, synthetically, or with a blend of both—is essential for maintaining its health and appearance throughout the year. A good fertiliser supports not just greener grass, but also stronger roots, better drought tolerance, and improved resistance to wear and disease.

If you’re unsure what to use, your turf supplier or local garden centre will be able to recommend a product suited to your lawn’s needs. Many stock fertilisers used by professionals and tailored to UK conditions, helping you get the best from your garden with minimal fuss.