Choosing the best fertilizer for ornamental grasses ensures optimal nutrient uptake, faster growth, and increased resistance to environmental stressors.

Ornamental grasses add elegance, texture, and movement to any landscape, making them a favorite among gardeners and landscapers. However, to maintain their striking beauty, strong root systems, and vibrant foliage, providing the right ornamental grasses fertilizer is essential.

Whether you are growing ornamental grasses in pots, flower beds, or large landscapes, selecting the right fertilizer depends on factors such as nutrient composition, release type, and seasonal needs.

Slow-release fertilizers provide steady nourishment, while liquid fertilizers offer quick absorption for rapid growth. Organic fertilizers enhance soil health, while nitrogen-rich fertilizers boost lush foliage.

In this guide, we explore the 10 best fertilizers for ornamental grasses, including options for spring, fall, perennials, fast growth, and commercial use. Whether you need a high-nitrogen blend, organic formula, or slow-release option, this guide ensures you find the perfect fertilizer for your specific needs.

Tips for Choosing the Best Fertilizer for Ornamental Grasses

1. Understand Your Grass Type: Identify whether your ornamental grass is a cool-season or warm-season variety, as their nutrient requirements and growth cycles differ.

2. Soil Testing: Conduct a soil test to determine existing nutrient levels and pH. This information guides the selection of a fertilizer that complements your soil’s composition.

3. Opt for Slow-Release Formulas: Slow-release fertilizers provide a steady supply of nutrients, promoting consistent growth without the risk of over-fertilization.

4. Consider Organic Options: Organic fertilizers improve soil health and structure, benefiting ornamental grasses in the long term.

5. Seasonal Application: Apply fertilizers at optimal times—early spring for most grasses and late fall for specific varieties—to align with their growth patterns.

10 Best Fertilizer For Ornamental Grasses

Let’s dive into the top fertilizers for ornamental grasses that will transform your landscape with lush, healthy, and long-lasting growth

1. Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food Flower & Vegetable – Best Fertilizer for Ornamental Grasses in Pots

Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food is a versatile fertilizer ideal for container-grown ornamental grasses. With a balanced N-P-K ratio of 14-14-14, it provides essential nutrients to support robust growth and vibrant foliage. The smart-release technology ensures a steady nutrient supply for up to four months, reducing the need for frequent applications. Gardeners have observed significant improvements in plant health and color vibrancy when using this product. Its granulated form allows for easy application, making it a convenient choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

To use, sprinkle the recommended amount evenly over the soil surface and gently work it into the top layer. Water thoroughly to activate the nutrient release. This fertilizer is particularly beneficial for ornamental grasses in pots, where soil nutrients can deplete quickly due to limited volume. Regular use promotes lush, healthy growth, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your container garden.

Pros:

• Balanced nutrient supply

• Extended feeding period

• Easy application

• Improves foliage color

• Suitable for various plants

• Reduces fertilization frequency

• Trusted brand

Cons:

• Higher cost

• Not organic

• Requires precise measurement

2. Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food – Best Fertilizer for Ornamental Grasses in Spring

Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food is formulated to rejuvenate ornamental grasses during the spring season. Its 32-0-4 N-P-K ratio emphasizes nitrogen, promoting vigorous leaf development and rich green coloration. This fertilizer also contains Scotts’ Water Smart® formula, enhancing the plant’s ability to absorb water and nutrients. Users have reported thicker, more resilient grass stands after application. The granules are designed for easy spreading, ensuring even coverage across your lawn or garden beds.

Apply this fertilizer in early spring when ornamental grasses begin to show new growth. Use a broadcast spreader to distribute the granules evenly, following the recommended application rate. Water the area thoroughly after application to facilitate nutrient absorption. Regular use in spring sets the foundation for a healthy growing season, enabling ornamental grasses to reach their full potential.

Pros:

• Promotes rapid growth

• Enhances green color

• Improves drought resistance

• Easy to apply

• Suitable for large areas

• Trusted brand

• Quick results

Cons:

• High nitrogen content

• Not organic

• Requires watering in

3. Milorganite Slow-Release Nitrogen Fertilizer – Best Fertilizer for Ornamental Grasses in Fall

Milorganite is an organic, slow-release nitrogen fertilizer ideal for fall application on ornamental grasses. With an N-P-K ratio of 6-4-0, it provides essential nutrients while enhancing soil health. The slow-release formulation ensures a steady nutrient supply, preparing grasses for the winter months and promoting robust growth in spring. Gardeners appreciate its non-burning nature and the added benefit of organic matter, which improves soil structure. Milorganite is also known for its ability to deter certain pests, providing an added advantage for garden maintenance.

Apply Milorganite in late fall, approximately one month before the first expected frost. Evenly distribute the recommended amount over the soil surface and water thoroughly to activate the nutrients. This application timing allows ornamental grasses to store necessary nutrients, enhancing their resilience during winter and ensuring a vigorous start in spring.

Pros:

• Organic composition

• Slow-release formula

• Improves soil health

• Non-burning

• Pest deterrent

• Enhances root development

• Environmentally friendly

Cons:

• Mild odor

• Lower nutrient concentration

• Requires larger quantities

4. Espoma Organic All-Purpose Plant Tone – Best Organic Fertilizer for Ornamental Grasses

Espoma Organic Plant Tone is a well-balanced, all-purpose fertilizer ideal for ornamental grasses. With an N-P-K ratio of 5-3-3, it provides essential nutrients while improving soil health through organic matter. This fertilizer contains beneficial microbes that enhance nutrient absorption and promote strong root development. Gardeners appreciate its slow-release formula, ensuring steady growth without the risk of nutrient burn.

To use, apply the recommended amount around the base of the grasses and gently mix it into the soil. Water thoroughly to activate the nutrients. Regular use enhances foliage density, color vibrancy, and overall plant health, making it an excellent organic choice for sustainable gardening.

Pros:

• Organic composition
• Enhances soil structure
• Promotes strong root growth
• Slow-release formula
• Non-burning
• Beneficial microbes
• Safe for pets and environment

Cons:

• Lower nitrogen content
• Requires reapplication
• Strong earthy smell

5. Miracle-Gro Shake ‘N Feed All Purpose Plant Food – Best Granular Fertilizer for Ornamental Grasses

Miracle-Gro Shake ‘N Feed is an easy-to-use granular fertilizer that provides essential nutrients for up to three months. With an N-P-K ratio of 12-4-8, it supports lush foliage growth and vibrant color. This formula includes natural ingredients that feed both the plants and beneficial soil microbes, promoting long-term soil health. Gardeners love its convenience and effectiveness in enhancing ornamental grass vigor.

To apply, shake the granules evenly around the base of the grasses and lightly rake them into the soil. Water thoroughly to ensure nutrient absorption. Regular applications maintain strong, healthy ornamental grasses with minimal effort.

Pros:

• Long-lasting effect
• Easy application
• Enhances soil microbes
• Boosts leaf color
• Non-burning formula
• Suitable for various plants
• Trusted brand

Cons:

• Granular texture requires watering in
• Not fully organic
• Can attract pests if overapplied

6. Jobe’s Organics All-Purpose Fertilizer Spikes – Best Fertilizer Spikes for Ornamental Grasses

Jobe’s Organics Fertilizer Spikes provide a slow-release, convenient option for feeding ornamental grasses. With an N-P-K ratio of 4-4-4, these spikes deliver balanced nutrition over time. They also contain beneficial microbes that improve soil health and nutrient uptake. Gardeners prefer this product for its ease of use and minimal maintenance requirements.

To apply, insert the recommended number of spikes into the soil near the grass roots. The nutrients gradually release over time, promoting sustained growth. This method is ideal for busy gardeners who want a low-maintenance fertilization approach.

Pros:

• Easy to use
• Slow-release formula
• Enhances soil microbes
• Balanced nutrition
• No mixing required
• Reduces fertilizer waste
• Pet and eco-friendly

Cons:

• Requires multiple spikes for larger areas
• Can be costly for big gardens
• Takes time to show results

7. Dr. Earth Organic & Natural All-Purpose Fertilizer – Best Eco-Friendly Fertilizer for Ornamental Grasses

Dr. Earth Organic & Natural Fertilizer is a top choice for environmentally conscious gardeners. With an N-P-K ratio of 4-4-4, it delivers balanced nutrients while improving soil biodiversity. This fertilizer is enriched with probiotics, beneficial fungi, and humic acids, enhancing plant health and resistance to stress. Gardeners appreciate its commitment to organic farming principles.

To use, mix the recommended amount into the soil around ornamental grasses and water thoroughly. Regular application ensures dense, healthy growth while maintaining soil fertility.

Pros:

• Certified organic
• Improves soil structure
• Promotes strong root systems
• Enhances drought resistance
• Safe for people and pets
• Rich in beneficial microbes
• No synthetic chemicals

Cons:

• Strong organic smell
• Requires frequent application
• Slightly expensive

8. Alaska Fish Fertilizer 5-1-1 – Best Liquid Organic Fertilizer for Ornamental Grasses

Alaska Fish Fertilizer is a liquid organic fertilizer derived from fish emulsion. With an N-P-K ratio of 5-1-1, it provides essential nitrogen to promote lush, green growth. This natural fertilizer enhances microbial activity in the soil, improving nutrient availability. Gardeners favor its effectiveness in stimulating growth and improving plant resilience.

To apply, dilute the fertilizer according to package instructions and water the grasses with the solution. Regular use ensures healthy, vibrant ornamental grasses with improved soil fertility.

Pros:

• Organic and natural
• Improves soil health
• Enhances leaf growth
• Increases drought tolerance
• Works quickly
• Safe for all plants
• Boosts microbial activity

Cons:

• Strong fish odor
• Needs frequent application
• Attracts some wildlife

9. Pennington Ultragreen Lawn Fertilizer 30-0-4 – Best High-Nitrogen Fertilizer for Ornamental Grasses

Pennington Ultragreen Lawn Fertilizer is designed to promote fast and dense growth in ornamental grasses. With an N-P-K ratio of 30-0-4, it delivers high nitrogen content for vibrant green foliage. This fertilizer also contains iron for improved color and overall plant health. Gardeners report excellent results in revitalizing weak or slow-growing grasses.

To apply, use a spreader to evenly distribute the granules over the grass area. Water the area thoroughly after application for best results.

Pros:

• High nitrogen content
• Fast growth stimulation
• Improves grass color
• Strengthens plant structure
• Contains iron
• Easy to apply
• Suitable for large areas

Cons:

• Not organic
• Requires careful application
• Overuse can cause burning

10. GreenView Fairway Formula Spring Fertilizer – Best Professional-Grade Fertilizer for Ornamental Grasses

GreenView Fairway Formula is a professional-grade fertilizer formulated to support ornamental grasses. With an N-P-K ratio of 26-4-12, it provides a well-balanced blend of nutrients for vigorous growth. This fertilizer includes slow-release nitrogen for extended feeding, reducing the need for frequent applications. Gardeners appreciate its effectiveness in maintaining lush, healthy grasses throughout the growing season.

To apply, use a broadcast spreader to distribute the granules evenly. Water the area thoroughly to activate nutrient release. This product is ideal for those looking for a high-performance fertilizer with long-lasting results.

Pros:

• Professional-grade formula
• High nitrogen content
• Long-lasting effect
• Strengthens plant health
• Slow-release nutrients
• Enhances drought tolerance
• Suitable for large areas

Cons:

• Expensive
• Not organic
• Requires careful application

Best Fertilizer for Ornamental Grasses  FAQs 

1. What type of fertilizer is best for ornamental grasses? The best fertilizer for ornamental grasses is one that provides balanced nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, in slow-release forms. Organic fertilizers like Espoma Organic Lawn Food are great choices, as they nourish the grasses over time without causing nutrient burn.

2. How often should I fertilize ornamental grasses? Fertilize ornamental grasses once in the spring as new growth begins and again in late summer or early fall. Avoid fertilizing during the winter when grasses are dormant.

3. Can I use regular lawn fertilizer on ornamental grasses? While you can use regular lawn fertilizers, it’s better to choose a fertilizer formulated for ornamental grasses, as it provides the specific nutrient ratios that support their unique growth patterns.

4. Is organic fertilizer better for ornamental grasses? Organic fertilizers, like Espoma Organic Lawn Food, are beneficial for ornamental grasses because they improve soil health and provide nutrients in a slow-release manner, promoting long-term growth without the risk of over-fertilizing.

5. What nutrients do ornamental grasses need from fertilizers? Ornamental grasses require a balanced mix of nitrogen for healthy foliage growth, phosphorus for strong root development, and potassium for overall plant health and resilience against stressors.

6. Should I use liquid or granular fertilizer for ornamental grasses? Both liquid and granular fertilizers are effective, but granular fertilizers are often preferred for ornamental grasses due to their slow-release nature, reducing the need for frequent applications.

7. What is the best time to apply fertilizer to ornamental grasses? The best time to apply fertilizer to ornamental grasses is in the early spring when new growth begins. Applying fertilizer at the right time helps grasses establish strong roots and lush foliage throughout the growing season

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, selecting the best Ornamental Grasses Fertilizer is essential for promoting vibrant growth and overall plant health. After careful research, the best Ornamental Grasses Fertilizer is Espoma Organic Lawn Food, which offers a balanced, slow-release formula that encourages strong root development and lush foliage.

As a close contender, the runner-up Ornamental Grasses Fertilizer is Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food, praised for its fast-acting results, making it ideal for those who seek quicker growth.

Regardless of which Ornamental Grasses Fertilizer you choose, understanding the specific needs of your grasses and applying the right fertilizer based on their growth cycle will ensure they flourish.

With the proper Ornamental Grasses Fertilizer, your landscape will benefit from enhanced color, texture, and resilience, offering lasting beauty with minimal effort