By Emily ParkerUpdated November 2026
Shopping for an organic nitrogen lawn fertilizer can be confusing, because the label on a bag or bottle doesn’t always tell you what’s inside or how fast it works. This list narrows the field to seven options. We selected them by looking at published specifications, the reputation of each brand, and the patterns owners tend to describe in their feedback: how quickly grass greens up, whether the product is easy to apply evenly, and whether it suits a mixed-use yard with pollinators, pets or vegetable beds. Read each label before use, since rates and suitability vary by grass type and climate.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallSimple Lawn Solutions Advanced 16-4-8 Balanced NPK Lawn FoodView on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for quick green-upCountryMax 50LB Urea Fertilizer 46-0-0 High Nitrogen Lawn FertilizerView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest budget pickUrea Fertilizer 46-0-0 Made in USA 5LB Plant FoodView on Amazon - 4
Best for fall feedingSimple Lawn Solutions Ultimate 3-18-18 NPK Lawn FoodView on Amazon - 5
Best for deeper colorSimple Lawn Solutions Commercial Grade Lawn Fertilizer with IronView on Amazon - 6
Best for a liquid spray routineScotts Liquid Green Max Lawn Food with IronView on Amazon - 7
Best for balanced liquid feedingScotts Turf Builder Liquid Lawn FoodView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| CountryMax 50LB Urea Fertilizer 46-0-0 | Quick green-up on larger lawns | High nitrogen content (46-0-0) in bulk |
| Simple Lawn Solutions 16-4-8 Balanced NPK | All-around spring and summer feeding | Balanced NPK liquid concentrate |
| Urea Fertilizer 46-0-0 Made in USA 5LB | Small yards and garden beds | Small, easy-to-store granules |
| Simple Lawn Solutions 3-18-18 NPK | Late-season feeding | Higher potassium for root vigor |
| Simple Lawn Solutions Commercial Grade with Iron | Deeper green color without surge growth | Added iron for color |
| Scotts Liquid Green Max Lawn Food | Spray-on feeding with iron | 29-0-0 liquid with iron supplement |
| Scotts Turf Builder Liquid Lawn Food | Liquid feeding with a little potassium | 29-0-3 liquid formula |
CountryMax 50LB Urea Fertilizer 46-0-0 High Nitrogen Lawn Fertilizer
Supports Healthy Plant Growth, Fast Green-Up Formula, Ideal for Lawns, Gardens, Crops, Trees and Shrubs CountryMax 50LB Urea Fertilizer 46-0-0 High Nitrogen Lawn Fertilizer
Best for: Quick green-up on larger lawns and mixed landscapes
This is a bulk granular urea product aimed at people who manage large turf areas, gardens or shrubs and want a high-nitrogen source they can spread by the bagful.
Key specs
- Analysis: 46-0-0 (high nitrogen, no phosphorus or potassium)
- Size: 50 lb bag
- Form: granular urea
Pros
- Large bag size reduces trips to the store
- High nitrogen content means a small amount goes a long way
- Suitable for lawns, gardens and woody plants alike
Cons
- Urea is not an organic material in the strict sense, so check your local rules if organic certification matters
- Easy to over-apply, which can burn turf
Bottom line: A good fit for a large property owner who wants a concentrated nitrogen source and is comfortable measuring carefully.
Simple Lawn Solutions Advanced 16-4-8 Balanced NPK Lawn Food
Advanced 16-4-8 Balanced NPK – Lawn Food Quality Liquid Fertilizer – Spring & Summer Concentrated Spray – Any Grass Type – Simple Lawn Solutions (32 Ounce)
Best for: All-around spring and summer feeding on any grass type
A liquid concentrate with a balanced nutrient profile, intended for regular feeding during active growing seasons.
Key specs
- Analysis: 16-4-8 (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium)
- Size: 32 oz concentrate
- Form: liquid
Pros
- Balanced formula supports general turf health
- Liquid form spreads evenly with a hose-end sprayer
- Labeled for any grass type
Cons
- Concentrate requires dilution and careful mixing
- Not all owners will want a synthetic-based liquid for a fully organic program
Bottom line: A strong all-round choice for homeowners who want predictable spring and summer feeding.
Urea Fertilizer 46-0-0 Made in USA 5LB Plant Food
Urea Fertilizer 46-0-0 Made in USA – 5LB Plant Food for Indoor/Outdoor Flowers & Gardens – Promotes Lush Growth – Lettuce, Green Lawns, Fruit, Vegetables, Citrus Trees, Tie Dye Granules Prills
Best for: Small yards, garden beds and container plants
A small-bag urea granule that suits people who need a little nitrogen for a patch of lawn or a vegetable bed.
Key specs
- Analysis: 46-0-0
- Size: 5 lb bag
- Form: granular prills
Pros
- Small bag is easy to store and portion
- Useful across lawns, vegetables and flowers
- Made in USA, per the listing
Cons
- Limited coverage for larger lawns
- Same over-application risk as other high-nitrogen urea products
Bottom line: Best for a small property or a garden where a modest nitrogen boost is all that’s needed.
Simple Lawn Solutions Ultimate 3-18-18 NPK Lawn Food
Ultimate 3-18-18 NPK- Lawn Food Quality Liquid Fertilizer- Easy to Use Concentrated Spray- Any Grass Type- Summer & Fall Nutrients- Simple Lawn Solutions – Turf Hardiness & Root Vigor (32 Ounce)
Best for: Late-season feeding aimed at root development
A lower-nitrogen, higher-potassium liquid aimed at fall and summer maintenance rather than rapid top growth.
Key specs
- Analysis: 3-18-18 (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium)
- Size: 32 oz concentrate
- Form: liquid
Pros
- Potassium-forward profile suits late-season root support
- Lower nitrogen reduces the risk of surge growth
- Labeled for any grass type
Cons
- Not a good choice if you need fast green-up in spring
- Concentrate needs dilution
Bottom line: Pick this for a fall or summer program focused on roots and recovery.
Simple Lawn Solutions Commercial Grade Lawn Fertilizer with Iron
Commercial Grade Lawn Fertilizer with Iron- Liquid Fertilizer Spray- Nitrogen and Iron for Deeper Green Turf- Any Grass Type – Simple Lawn Solutions – Lawn Energizer – 32 Ounce
Best for: Deeper green color without heavy top growth
A liquid spray that combines nitrogen with iron, intended to deepen color between full feedings.
Key specs
- Contains nitrogen and iron, per the listing
- Size: 32 oz
- Form: liquid spray
Pros
- Iron supports visible color without pushing as much growth
- Ready-to-use style is convenient for spot treatments
- Labeled for any grass type
Cons
- Nutrient ratio is less clearly documented than fully specified analyses
- Color gains are temporary and need repeat applications
Bottom line: Useful for owners who want a quick color lift between main feedings.
Scotts Liquid Green Max Lawn Food with Iron
Liquid Lawn Fertilizer and Iron Supplement, For Any Grass Type, 29-0-0 NPK Scotts Liquid Green Max Lawn Food, 32 fl. oz.
Best for: Spray-on feeding with added iron
A 29-0-0 liquid lawn food with an iron supplement, designed to be applied with a hose-end or handheld sprayer.
Key specs
- Analysis: 29-0-0
- Includes iron supplement, per the listing
- Size: 32 fl. oz
Pros
- Liquid application covers lawns quickly
- Iron adds color without a large nitrogen surge
- Recognizable brand with broad distribution
Cons
- Synthetic-based, so not suitable for a strictly organic program
- Requires a sprayer and careful dilution
Bottom line: Good for owners who want liquid convenience and are not restricted to organic inputs.
Scotts Turf Builder Liquid Lawn Food
Lawn Fertilizer For Any Grass Type, 29-0-3 Scotts Turf Builder Liquid Lawn Food, 32 fl. oz.
Best for: Liquid feeding with a touch of potassium
A liquid lawn food with a small amount of potassium alongside nitrogen, applied through a sprayer.
Key specs
- Analysis: 29-0-3
- Size: 32 fl. oz
- Form: liquid
Pros
- Potassium content supports general turf condition
- Easy to apply evenly with a sprayer
- Well-known brand with easy-to-find replacements
Cons
- Synthetic-based, which conflicts with a purely organic approach
- Nitrogen is quick-acting, so application timing matters
Bottom line: A practical liquid option for those not committed to organic-only products.
Buying Guide
Nitrogen source: organic versus synthetic
An organic nitrogen lawn fertilizer typically derives its nitrogen from plant, animal or mineral sources that microbes break down over time. Synthetic products such as urea release nitrogen faster. Check the label or product description for the source, because some items listed as “natural” still contain synthetic components.
Good picks for this: Urea Fertilizer 46-0-0 Made in USA 5LB, CountryMax 50LB Urea Fertilizer 46-0-0
Nutrient ratio (N-P-K)
The three numbers on a fertilizer label give the percentage by weight of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. A 16-4-8 ratio is balanced, while 3-18-18 is weighted toward root support. For most spring feeding, a higher first number makes sense. For fall, owners often prefer a lower nitrogen figure with more potassium.
Good picks for this: Simple Lawn Solutions Advanced 16-4-8 Balanced NPK, Simple Lawn Solutions Ultimate 3-18-18 NPK
Form: granular versus liquid
Granular products are spread with a broadcast or drop spreader and release over days to weeks. Liquids act faster and are applied with a hose-end or pump sprayer. Granules are usually easier to store; liquids cover patchy areas quickly but need careful dilution.
Good picks for this: CountryMax 50LB Urea Fertilizer 46-0-0, Scotts Liquid Green Max Lawn Food
Lawn size and bag size
Match the package to the area. A 5 lb bag suits a small patch or a few garden beds. A 50 lb bag makes more sense for a large lawn, but only if you have a calibrated spreader and storage that keeps the product dry. Calculate square footage before buying so you can apply at the label rate.
Good picks for this: Urea Fertilizer 46-0-0 Made in USA 5LB, CountryMax 50LB Urea Fertilizer 46-0-0
Iron and color supplements
Iron can deepen green color without a large nitrogen push, which helps during hot weather when excess growth stresses turf. If your main goal is color rather than growth, look for an iron-containing formula and check the supplement percentage on the label.
Good picks for this: Simple Lawn Solutions Commercial Grade with Iron, Scotts Liquid Green Max Lawn Food
Seasonal timing
Spring feeding supports early growth, while fall feeding helps roots store reserves before winter. Many cool-season lawns benefit most from feeding in early fall. Choose a formula that matches the season rather than using one product year-round.
Good picks for this: Simple Lawn Solutions Ultimate 3-18-18 NPK, Scotts Turf Builder Liquid Lawn Food
Application safety and pets
Keep children and pets off treated turf until the product has dried or been watered in, as the label directs. High-nitrogen products can burn grass and irritate paws if over-applied. If you have concerns about a specific product and a pet, consult your veterinarian or a qualified lawn professional.
Good picks for this: Simple Lawn Solutions Advanced 16-4-8 Balanced NPK, Scotts Turf Builder Liquid Lawn Food
FAQ
What makes a fertilizer an organic nitrogen lawn fertilizer?
Generally, the nitrogen comes from natural sources such as plant meals, composted material or animal byproducts, and it is released through microbial activity. Labels and certifications vary, so read the ingredient list rather than relying on marketing terms.
How often should I apply organic nitrogen fertilizer to my lawn?
Many slow-release organic products are applied a few times per growing season, while faster liquids may be used more often. Always follow the rate and interval on the specific label.
Can urea be used in an organic lawn program?
Urea is a synthetic nitrogen source, so it does not meet strict organic standards. It is often used by homeowners who want fast results, but if certification matters to you, choose a product labeled as organic.
Is organic nitrogen fertilizer safe around bees and pollinators?
Products without synthetic pesticides are generally a better fit for pollinator-friendly yards. Apply according to label directions, avoid drift onto flowering plants, and water in granules to reduce residue on blooms. For specific pollinator questions, a local extension office is a good resource.
Why does my lawn look burned after fertilizing?
Excess nitrogen, uneven spreading or application during hot, dry weather can scorch turf. Water the lawn after application as directed, sweep granules off hard surfaces, and avoid double-applying.
Do I need a spreader for granular fertilizer?
A drop or broadcast spreader gives more even coverage than hand-spreading, especially on larger lawns. Calibrate the spreader using the label’s rate and a test area.
Should I fertilize my lawn in fall or spring?
Both can work. Spring feeding supports green-up, while fall feeding helps roots recover and store reserves. Many owners use both, with a lower-nitrogen, higher-potassium product in fall.
Conclusion
For most homeowners, a balanced liquid like the Simple Lawn Solutions 16-4-8 is a sensible starting point, while the 3-18-18 formula suits fall. Bulk urea works for large lawns where fast nitrogen is the goal, and the 5 lb urea bag suits small yards and garden beds. If color is your main concern, an iron-containing product fits better. If you need a strictly organic program, check each label carefully, since several liquids here are synthetic-based. Match the product to your grass, your season and your tolerance for careful measuring.
Sources
- Information on pesticide and fertilizer safety, and protecting pollinators in landscapes (epa.gov)
- Research-based lawn fertilization guidance from land-grant university extension programs (extension.org)
- Fertilizer labeling standards and how to read a guaranteed analysis
Related reading
- Top 5 Organic Fertilizers for Lawn Picks Compared for Bee-Safe Yards
- 7 Best Organic Lawn Fertilizers for Fall: Our Picks Compared
- 6 Best Purely Organic Lawn Fertilizer Options for Bee-Safe Yards
- 6 Best Organic Lawn Fertilizers Compared: Top Picks for 2026
- 5 Best Milorganite Organic Lawn Fertilizer Options for Bee-Safe Lawns (2026)
- Velvet Green Organic Lawn Care: A Step-by-Step Guide for Bee-Friendly Yards
About Emily Parker
Emily Parker is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our pollinator-safe lawn care guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
