'GRANULAR' VS 'WATER SOLUBLE'

When picking a fertiliser, you will have the option for a granular or a water soluble fertiliser. The granular option is more common and it is a pellet with a powder texture that is dropped onto the lawn. Whereas the water soluble option is a liquid that is mixed with water and then sprayed onto the lawn. 

Granular

The granular fertiliser operates by fertilising the soil and subsequently provides the nutrients to the grass via its roots. The granular fertiliser is best applied with a spreader, to ensure that it is evenly spread. 

The granular fertiliser is a long term option which slowly releases nutrients into the soil and can continue operating for weeks and months. Ideally, you can keep your lawn topped up with a granular fertiliser throughout the year and keep your lawn blooming. 

When using a granular fertiliser, it requires a large amount of water to be applied to the lawn, for two reasons:

• The water prevents scorching. The fertiliser strips moisture from your lawn and this has the effect of scorching it, so by watering heavily, this prevents that from occurring
• The granular fertiliser is placed on top of the lawn, but it needs to make its way down to the soil. So by watering, it washes the fertiliser down to the soil level

Water Soluble

The water soluble fertiliser operates by being applied directly to the lawn and is absorbed via the grass rather than dissolving into the soil. The fertiliser is mixed with water and then applied to the lawn using a sprayer or a watering can with a rose fitted. 

Because it is absorbed directly, it goes to work much quicker but does not last long. So you will find that you may see a quick change in the appearance of the lawn, but not one that is long lasting. 

When the fertiliser is applied, it is mixed with water so this lessens the need for watering afterwards. Despite this, it is still recommended that you water lightly after applying the fertiliser. 

Water soluble fertilisers are not generally recommended because they have such a short lasting effect, but if you want to use these as a quick pick me up, then go for it. 

Verdict

Stick with a granular fertiliser but if you do want a quick pick me up, give a water soluble fertiliser a go.