The Grass Doctor

Do pellet-type lawn fertilizers keep fertilizing for awhile, or does it happen all at once?

I fertilized my lawn for the first time this spring. I used one of those dispensers that flings out the little fertilizer pellets as you walk behind it. I assume that these little pellets just sit on the lawn, inactive, until it rains. But does the first significant rain dissolve them and fertilize the lawn all at once? Or do they fertilize continuously for a number of weeks/months? Thanks!

Public Comments

1. Pelletized fertilizers combine all the nutrients into semi-rigid pellets or capsules. This does not ensure a steady release of nutrients unless slow-release sources are included in the pellets. The package should mention 'slow release' if it's part of the product. If it doesn't, then it is a granule that will melt in the rain or watering and release all at one time. This type should be carefully spread and evenly spread so that burning will not occur when it does melt. Does the directions ask you to water it in?.....