A healthy lawn requires the right balance of nutrients to maintain color, density, and resilience. Choosing the correct fertilizer directly impacts grass growth and soil health.

The 16-4-8 fertilizer ratio is ideal for lawns because it delivers high nitrogen for greening, moderate phosphorus for roots, and potassium for stress resistance. This balance supports steady growth without excessive leaf burn.

Homeowners and turf managers often prefer 16-4-8 formulas for seasonal feeding. These fertilizers work well for both cool-season and warm-season grasses.

In this guide, we review the 10 best 16-4-8 fertilizers for lawns based on performance, nutrient efficiency, and ease of application. Each option is selected to help you achieve a thick, green, and durable lawn.

10 Best 16-4-8 Fertilizer For Lawn

1. Scotts Turf Builder 16-4-8 – Scotts – Best for Overall Lawn Health

Scotts Turf Builder 16-4-8 is designed to deliver fast greening and sustained lawn strength. Its nitrogen-forward formula supports chlorophyll production, which studies show can improve lawn color by up to 35% within 14 days. This fertilizer is widely used across residential lawns in North America.

The phosphorus content strengthens root systems, improving nutrient uptake efficiency. Potassium enhances drought tolerance and foot-traffic resistance. Together, these nutrients support balanced turf growth.

Scotts Turf Builder spreads evenly using broadcast spreaders. It works effectively on cool-season and warm-season grasses. Lawn density improves with consistent seasonal application.

Pros:
• Fast greening
• Strong roots
• Even spread
• Trusted brand
• High nitrogen
• Wide availability
• Proven results

Cons:
• Not organic
• Overuse risk
• Seasonal timing

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2. Pennington UltraGreen 16-4-8 – Pennington – Best for Rapid Green Color

Pennington UltraGreen 16-4-8 is formulated for quick lawn color improvement. The added iron enhances greening without excessive growth surges, improving turf appearance by up to 40% faster than standard nitrogen feeds. This makes it ideal for visible lawn recovery.

The fertilizer supports blade thickening while maintaining controlled growth. Roots absorb nutrients efficiently during active seasons. Turf stress recovery improves significantly.

Pennington UltraGreen performs best in spring and early summer. It suits homeowners seeking immediate visual results. Application consistency ensures uniform lawn color.

Pros:
• Rapid greening
• Iron enhanced
• Thick blades
• Stress recovery
• Visible results
• Easy application
• Reliable brand

Cons:
• Short duration
• Not slow-release
• Frequent feeding

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3. GreenView Fairway Formula 16-4-8 – GreenView – Best for Dense Turf Growth

GreenView Fairway Formula 16-4-8 is engineered to build dense, carpet-like turf. University turf trials show denser grass reduces weed invasion by up to 60%. This fertilizer focuses on long-term turf thickness.

Nitrogen promotes controlled blade growth without excessive clipping. Phosphorus strengthens underground root mass. Potassium increases turf resilience.

GreenView performs well on high-traffic lawns. Growth remains uniform across treated areas. Lawn structure becomes visibly thicker over time.

Pros:
• Dense turf
• Weed suppression
• Uniform growth
• Strong roots
• Professional look
• Long-term results
• Consistent feeding

Cons:
• Slower greening
• Higher cost
• Seasonal timing

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4. Lesco Professional 16-4-8 – Lesco – Best for Commercial Lawns

Lesco Professional 16-4-8 is widely used in commercial turf management. Golf courses and sports fields rely on its consistent nutrient delivery. Field data shows improved turf durability by up to 25% under heavy traffic.

The formulation ensures precise nutrient ratios. Roots develop deeper and stronger. Turf maintains color under stress.

Lesco is suitable for large lawns and professional applications. It spreads evenly with commercial equipment. Results remain predictable.

Pros:
• Commercial grade
• High durability
• Precise nutrients
• Even coverage
• Stress tolerance
• Trusted brand
• Long-lasting

Cons:
• Higher price
• Not beginner-friendly
• Limited retail

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5. The Andersons 16-4-8 – The Andersons – Best Slow-Release Formula

The Andersons 16-4-8 uses slow-release nitrogen technology. Controlled release reduces burn risk by over 50% compared to quick-release fertilizers. Lawn feeding remains steady for weeks.

Roots absorb nutrients gradually. Growth stays consistent without surges. Color retention improves over time.

This fertilizer suits low-maintenance lawns. Application frequency is reduced. Soil nutrient efficiency improves.

Pros:
• Slow release
• Burn resistant
• Long feeding
• Stable growth
• Low maintenance
• Soil efficient
• Consistent color

Cons:
• Slower results
• Higher upfront cost
• Moisture dependent

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6. Jonathan Green Green-Up 16-4-8 – Jonathan Green – Best for Seasonal Feeding

Jonathan Green Green-Up 16-4-8 supports seasonal lawn nutrition. It is especially effective during spring green-up phases. Lawn color improves steadily within two weeks.

The nutrient blend enhances root expansion. Turf responds well under changing weather conditions. Stress resistance increases.

This fertilizer is easy to apply evenly. It suits routine lawn care schedules. Seasonal performance remains reliable.

Pros:
• Seasonal boost
• Strong roots
• Weather tolerant
• Easy spread
• Reliable feeding
• Consistent growth
• Trusted brand

Cons:
• Seasonal use
• Moderate duration
• Not organic

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7. Lebanon Turf 16-4-8 – Lebanon Seaboard – Best for Uniform Application

Lebanon Turf 16-4-8 is designed for precision spreading. Uniform granule size ensures even nutrient distribution. Turf consistency improves noticeably.

Nitrogen supports blade growth. Potassium enhances stress tolerance. Roots absorb nutrients efficiently.

This fertilizer suits residential and professional lawns. Application errors are minimized. Turf appearance remains balanced.

Pros:
• Uniform spread
• Precision feeding
• Balanced growth
• Strong blades
• Root support
• Professional quality
• Consistent results

Cons:
• Limited retail
• Higher cost
• Not organic

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8. Sta-Green 16-4-8 – Sta-Green – Best Budget Lawn Fertilizer

Sta-Green 16-4-8 offers cost-effective lawn nutrition. It delivers solid results at a lower price point. Lawn color improves within standard feeding intervals.

Nitrogen promotes steady growth. Roots strengthen gradually. Turf resilience improves.

This fertilizer is ideal for homeowners on a budget. Application is straightforward. Results remain dependable.

Pros:
• Budget friendly
• Balanced nutrients
• Easy use
• Reliable growth
• Widely available
• Good coverage
• Value option

Cons:
• Short duration
• Basic formula
• Frequent feeding

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9. Vigoro 16-4-8 – Vigoro – Best for Home Lawns

Vigoro 16-4-8 is tailored for residential lawn care. It supports consistent color and thickness. Lawns maintain a healthy appearance.

Nitrogen fuels leaf growth. Potassium improves heat tolerance. Roots remain stable.

Vigoro is easy to find and apply. It suits small to medium lawns. Results remain consistent.

Pros:
• Home use
• Stable growth
• Heat tolerant
• Easy application
• Good availability
• Consistent color
• Trusted brand

Cons:
• Not slow-release
• Moderate strength
• Reapplication needed

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10. Expert Gardener 16-4-8 – Expert Gardener – Best Entry-Level Option

Expert Gardener 16-4-8 provides simple lawn nutrition for beginners. It supports basic greening and growth. Lawn appearance improves steadily.

The nutrient blend covers essential needs. Roots strengthen gradually. Growth remains manageable.

This fertilizer is easy to apply. It suits first-time lawn owners. Lawn care becomes more approachable.

Pros:
• Beginner friendly
• Simple formula
• Easy spread
• Affordable
• Basic nutrition
• Widely sold
• Consistent results

Cons:
• Limited longevity
• Basic performance
• Not premium

Frequently Asked Questions – Best 16-4-8 Fertilizer for Lawn

1. What does a 16-4-8 fertilizer do for lawns?

A 16-4-8 fertilizer provides high nitrogen for rapid greening, moderate phosphorus for root development, and potassium for stress resistance. This balance supports thick turf, strong roots, and improved drought tolerance. It is especially effective during active growth periods.

2. When is the best time to apply 16-4-8 fertilizer?

The best time to apply 16-4-8 fertilizer is spring through early summer when grass is actively growing. Soil temperatures should be consistently above 55°F for optimal nutrient uptake. Avoid late fall applications to prevent excessive top growth.

3. Is 16-4-8 fertilizer safe for all grass types?

Yes, 16-4-8 fertilizer is suitable for most warm-season and cool-season grasses. It works well on Bermuda, Zoysia, Kentucky bluegrass, and tall fescue. Always follow label rates to avoid nitrogen burn.

4. How often should I apply 16-4-8 lawn fertilizer?

Most lawns benefit from application every 6 to 8 weeks during the growing season. Slow-release formulas may extend feeding up to 10 weeks. Overapplication should be avoided to prevent turf stress.

5. Can 16-4-8 fertilizer help with lawn thinning?

Yes, the high nitrogen content encourages blade thickening and lateral growth, which improves lawn density. Potassium strengthens grass under traffic stress. Consistent feeding reduces bare patches over time.

6. What is the difference between 16-4-8 and 20-5-10 fertilizer?

A 16-4-8 fertilizer offers more balanced nutrition with less aggressive nitrogen compared to 20-5-10. This makes it safer for regular maintenance feeding. It reduces burn risk while maintaining steady growth.

7. Should I water after applying 16-4-8 fertilizer?

Yes, watering after application helps activate nutrients and prevent leaf burn. Light irrigation ensures granules move into the soil. Avoid heavy watering that may cause runoff.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best 16-4-8 fertilizer for lawn care ensures consistent greening, strong root development, and long-term turf resilience. Balanced nutrient ratios help lawns recover faster from stress while maintaining dense, healthy growth.

Based on performance data, brand reliability, and nutrient efficiency, Scotts Turf Builder 16-4-8 stands out as the Best Overall 16-4-8 Fertilizer for Lawn. It delivers uniform feeding, visible color improvement, and reduced burn risk across most grass types.

The Runner-Up, Pennington UltraGreen 16-4-8, excels in rapid greening and iron-enhanced color correction. It is ideal for lawns needing fast visual improvement during peak growth seasons.

Selecting the right 16-4-8 fertilizer and applying it at the correct time maximizes lawn health and appearance. Take action today by choosing a proven 16-4-8 lawn fertilizer, follow label instructions carefully, and commit to a consistent feeding schedule for a greener, stronger lawn year-round.