long lasting nitrogen fertilizer options
AIThis post was created with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI).

Slow-release nitrogen fertilizers feed plants over time, but products in this roundup range from lawn granules and tablets to liquid feeds and container plant food. I name GreenView Fairway Formula 33 lb best overall for its lawn-focused formulation and broad coverage, while Osmocote Smart-Release suits mixed indoor and outdoor containers and Agriform tablets offer a targeted format for individual plantings. The main tradeoff is between sustained feeding and a product’s fit for your plants, application method and nutrient needs. High-nitrogen products can be useful when that is the goal, but a high number alone does not establish that nitrogen is slow release. Read on for the full comparison and guidance on choosing a formula that matches your use.

For listenersOffer from Amazon

Turn your quiet moments into listening time

  • Thousands of audiobooks, podcasts and originals
  • Listen on your phone, tablet or Echo — also offline
  • Cancel anytime
Try Audible free Free trial for new members
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
10
compared
9
brands
5
feeding durations
50 lbs
max weight
Which slow release nitrogen fertilizer should you buy?
★ Top Pick
Greenway Biotech Nitroform 39-
Best Overall for Long-Lasting Nitrogen
Feeds for a stated 3–4 months
See on Amazon →
People planting or maintaining trees, shrubs, and container plants who can place tablets near the root zone
Agriform 20-10-5 Slow Release
Pre-measured 21-gram tablets simplify consistent placement
View on Amazon →
Lawn owners who want a spray-applied fertilizer combining faster green-up with continued nitrogen feeding
PetraTools Liquid Nitrogen Fer
Combines quick- and slow-release nitrogen
View on Amazon →
Gardeners who want a measured liquid fertilizer with slow-release nitrogen and micronutrients for indoor and outdoor plants
18-3-6 All Purpose Liquid Fert
50% of total nitrogen is listed as slow release
View on Amazon →
Homeowners with a large lawn who want granular nitrogen feeding, added potassium, and deeper turf color
The Andersons Deep Green 24-0-
Combines quick- and slow-release nitrogen
View on Amazon →
Weight — compared
The Andersons Deep Green 24-0-40 lb
Osmocote Smart-Release Plant F8 lbs
CountryMax Urea Fertilizer 46-50 lbs
GreenView Fairway Formula Lawn33 lb
GreenView Fairway Formula Lawn16.5 lb
Pros & cons at a glance
Greenway Biotech Nitroform 39-
✓ Feeds for a stated 3–4 months
✗ Provides no phosphorus or potassium
Agriform 20-10-5 Slow Release
✓ Pre-measured 21-gram tablets simplify consistent placement
✗ Requires placement near roots for best results
PetraTools Liquid Nitrogen Fer
✓ Combines quick- and slow-release nitrogen
✗ Requires correct mixing and application to avoid over-fertilizing
18-3-6 All Purpose Liquid Fert
✓ 50% of total nitrogen is listed as slow release
✗ Listed application interval of every 2–4 weeks requires regular upkeep
The Andersons Deep Green 24-0-
✓ Combines quick- and slow-release nitrogen
✗ Feeding interval is shorter than Nitroform’s stated 3–4 months
Osmocote Smart-Release Plant F
✓ Feeds for up to six months through a resin coating
✗ Requires manual application and mixing into soil
CountryMax Urea Fertilizer 46-
✓ 46% nitrogen supports rapid green-up
✗ No slow-release duration is stated in the supplied product data
GreenView Fairway Formula Lawn
✓ 63% slow-release nitrogen feeds for up to 12 weeks
✗ Must be applied while grass is actively growing
GreenView Fairway Formula Lawn
✓ 63% slow-release nitrogen feeds for up to 12 weeks
✗ Must be applied while grass is actively growing
All Purpose Liquid Fertilizer
✓ 50% slow-release nitrogen
✗ Requires repeat application every two weeks for ornamentals or every two to four weeks for turf

Key Takeaways

  • GreenView Fairway Formula 33 lb leads this lawn-focused group; its listed 10,000-square-foot coverage makes it easier to plan a broad application than a small container or liquid product.
  • Osmocote Smart-Release is the clearest fit for buyers feeding a mix of indoor and outdoor plants, while the lawn-specific picks are aimed at turf rather than pots.
  • Agriform tablets offer a localized way to feed individual plantings; they serve a different job from broadcast lawn fertilizers.
  • Urea 46-0-0 has the highest listed nitrogen analysis, but its product name emphasizes fast green-up, so buyers seeking slow release should verify the release mechanism before choosing it.
  • Several entries are liquid fertilizers or conventional high-nitrogen formulas whose names do not establish slow release; compare the label’s release details and application directions before treating them as equivalent.
2
Agriform 20-10-5 Slow Release
Best for Trees and Root-Zone Feeding
1
Greenway Biotech Nitroform 39-
Best Overall for Long-Lasting Nitrogen
3
PetraTools Liquid Nitrogen Fer
Best for Quick Green-Up with Sustained Feeding

Our Top Slow Release Nitrogen Fertilizers Picks

Greenway Biotech Nitroform 39-0-0 Slow-Release Nitrogen Fertilizer, 2 lbGreenway Biotech Nitroform 39-0-0 Slow-Release Nitrogen Fertilizer, 2 lbBest Overall for Long-Lasting NitrogenFormula: 39-0-0Form: GranulesPackage weight: 2 poundsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Agriform 20-10-5 Slow Release Fertilizer Tablets (500 x 21g)Agriform 20-10-5 Slow Release Fertilizer Tablets (500 x 21g)Best for Trees and Root-Zone FeedingFormula: 20-10-5Form: Planting tabletsItem count: 500 tabletsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
PetraTools Liquid Nitrogen Fertilizer 1 Gallon 16-4-8 Lawn FertilizerPetraTools Liquid Nitrogen Fertilizer 1 Gallon 16-4-8 Lawn FertilizerBest for Quick Green-Up with Sustained FeedingVolume: 1 gallonNPK: 16-4-8Nitrogen: 16%VIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
18-3-6 All Purpose Liquid Fertilizer & Micro Nutrients (32 oz.)18-3-6 All Purpose Liquid Fertilizer & Micro Nutrients (32 oz.)Best Liquid Pick for Mixed PlantingsNutrient content: 18-3-6Package size: 32 oz.Slow-release nitrogen: 50%VIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
The Andersons Deep Green 24-0-11 Lawn Fertilizer, 40 lbThe Andersons Deep Green 24-0-11 Lawn Fertilizer, 40 lbBest for Large Lawns and Deep Turf ColorFormula: 24-0-11Form: GranulesWeight: 40 lbVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food Plus Outdoor & Indoor, 8 lbsOsmocote Smart-Release Plant Food Plus Outdoor & Indoor, 8 lbsBest for Mixed PlantingsWeight: 8 lbsCoverage: Up to 300 sq. ft.Nutrients: 11 essential nutrientsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
CountryMax Urea Fertilizer 46-0-0, 50LB Bag – High Nitrogen Lawn Fertilizer for Fast Green-UpCountryMax Urea Fertilizer 46-0-0, 50LB Bag – High Nitrogen Lawn Fertilizer for Fast Green-UpBest for Fast Green-UpNutrient ratio: 46-0-0Weight: 50 lbsFertilizer type: UreaVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
GreenView Fairway Formula Lawn Fertilizer, 33 lb, Covers 10,000 sq. ft.GreenView Fairway Formula Lawn Fertilizer, 33 lb, Covers 10,000 sq. ft.Best Overall for Large LawnsWeight: 33 lbCoverage: Up to 10,000 sq. ft.Slow-release nitrogen: 63%VIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
GreenView Fairway Formula Lawn Fertilizer, 16.5 lbGreenView Fairway Formula Lawn Fertilizer, 16.5 lbBest for Smaller LawnsWeight: 16.5 lbCoverage: Up to 5,000 sq. ft.Slow-release nitrogen: 63%VIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
All Purpose Liquid Fertilizer with Micronutrients, 24-0-4, 32ozAll Purpose Liquid Fertilizer with Micronutrients, 24-0-4, 32ozBest Liquid OptionN-P-K ratio: 24-0-4Size: 32 ozSlow-release nitrogen: 50%VIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Specs at a glance
slow release nitrogen fertilizerFeeding durationFormulaWeight
Greenway Biotech Nitroform 39-About 3–4 months39-0-0—
Agriform 20-10-5 Slow Release Up to two years20-10-5—
PetraTools Liquid Nitrogen Fer———
18-3-6 All Purpose Liquid Fert———
The Andersons Deep Green 24-0-Up to 8 weeks24-0-1140 lb
Osmocote Smart-Release Plant FUp to 6 months—8 lbs
CountryMax Urea Fertilizer 46-——50 lbs
GreenView Fairway Formula LawnUp to 12 weeksPhosphate-free33 lb
GreenView Fairway Formula LawnUp to 12 weeksPhosphate-free16.5 lb
All Purpose Liquid Fertilizer ———

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. Greenway Biotech Nitroform 39-0-0 Slow-Release Nitrogen Fertilizer, 2 lb

    Greenway Biotech Nitroform 39-0-0 Slow-Release Nitrogen Fertilizer, 2 lb

    Best Overall for Long-Lasting Nitrogen

    View on Amazon

    Nitroform’s 39-0-0 formula makes this the most focused slow-release nitrogen pick in this group. Its nitrogen blend includes 28.5% water-insoluble nitrogen, and the stated 3–4 month feeding window suits gardeners who want fewer fertilizer applications across lawns, shrubs, flowers, or vegetables. Compared with The Andersons Deep Green 24-0-11, Nitroform emphasizes sustained nitrogen rather than a quick-and-slow lawn feed with added potassium, iron, and manganese. That focus is useful when nitrogen is the main need, but it also means the formula supplies no phosphorus or potassium. The 2-pound package is easier to handle for small areas than a 40-pound lawn bag, though it may be limiting for larger properties. The product is described as low-salt and non-burning; application still needs to follow the label.

    Pros:
    • Feeds for a stated 3–4 months
    • High share of water-insoluble nitrogen supports gradual release
    • Suitable for lawns, flowers, vegetables, and shrubs
    • Described as low-salt and non-burning
    Cons:
    • Provides no phosphorus or potassium
    • The 2-pound package may not cover larger areas

    Best for: Gardeners treating smaller lawns or mixed plantings who want nitrogen feeding to last about 3–4 months

    Not ideal for: Buyers who need a complete NPK fertilizer or enough product for a large lawn

    • Formula:39-0-0
    • Form:Granules
    • Package weight:2 pounds
    • Urea nitrogen:3%
    • Water-soluble nitrogen:7.5%
    • Water-insoluble nitrogen:28.5%
    • Feeding duration:About 3–4 months
    • Listed uses:Lawns, flowers, vegetables, and shrubs
    Our verdict
    “Choose Nitroform when sustained nitrogen across several plant types matters more than a complete nutrient blend.”
  2. Agriform 20-10-5 Slow Release Fertilizer Tablets (500 x 21g)

    Agriform 20-10-5 Slow Release Fertilizer Tablets (500 x 21g)

    Best for Trees and Root-Zone Feeding

    View on Amazon

    Agriform’s pre-measured tablets suit planting jobs where fertilizer needs to be placed near roots instead of spread over a lawn. Each tablet weighs 21 grams, and the product is described as feeding trees, shrubs, and container plants for up to two years. That long stated interval sets it apart from Greenway Biotech Nitroform, which offers a 3–4 month window but is easier to apply across broad planting areas as granules. Agriform’s 20-10-5 formula also supplies phosphorus and potassium, unlike Nitroform’s nitrogen-only 39-0-0. The tradeoff is labor at installation: tablets need to be positioned near roots for best results, so they are less convenient for routine lawn feeding. A fixed formulation may also be a poor match when a planting needs nitrogen alone.

    Pros:
    • Pre-measured 21-gram tablets simplify consistent placement
    • Designed to feed for up to two years
    • 20-10-5 formula includes phosphorus and potassium
    • Suitable for trees, shrubs, and container plants
    Cons:
    • Requires placement near roots for best results
    • Tablet placement is less practical for broad lawn coverage
    • Only one formulation is listed

    Best for: People planting or maintaining trees, shrubs, and container plants who can place tablets near the root zone

    Not ideal for: Lawn owners seeking quick, broad coverage or gardeners who need a nitrogen-only formula

    • Formula:20-10-5
    • Form:Planting tablets
    • Item count:500 tablets
    • Weight per tablet:21 g
    • Feeding duration:Up to two years
    • Listed uses:Trees, shrubs, and container plants
    • Model number:90026
    • Brand:Dibbs Farms
    Our verdict
    “Pick Agriform for long-duration root-zone feeding on established plantings where initial tablet placement is manageable.”
  3. PetraTools Liquid Nitrogen Fertilizer 1 Gallon 16-4-8 Lawn Fertilizer

    PetraTools Liquid Nitrogen Fertilizer 1 Gallon 16-4-8 Lawn Fertilizer

    Best for Quick Green-Up with Sustained Feeding

    View on Amazon

    PetraTools combines quick- and slow-release nitrogen, aiming to give lawns an earlier response while continuing to feed after application. Its 16-4-8 blend also supplies phosphorus and potassium, making it broader nutritionally than The Andersons Deep Green 24-0-11, which is a granular lawn product with a higher nitrogen analysis and added iron and manganese. PetraTools is a liquid, so a sprayer can help distribute it evenly across turf, but the buyer must mix and apply the concentrated solution correctly. The stated rate is one gallon per 1,000 square feet, and the product may need repeated applications; it does not offer the long single-application window listed for Agriform tablets. Its pet-friendly description may appeal to households with animals, while careful label use remains necessary.

    Pros:
    • Combines quick- and slow-release nitrogen
    • 16-4-8 blend includes phosphorus and potassium
    • Liquid form supports sprayer application and even coverage
    • Listed as suitable for all grass types
    Cons:
    • Requires correct mixing and application to avoid over-fertilizing
    • May require multiple applications
    • Concentrated solution can be hazardous if misused

    Best for: Lawn owners who want a spray-applied fertilizer combining faster green-up with continued nitrogen feeding

    Not ideal for: Buyers who prefer a ready-to-spread granular product or want a documented multi-month feeding interval

    • Volume:1 gallon
    • NPK:16-4-8
    • Nitrogen:16%
    • Phosphorus:4%
    • Potassium:8%
    • Application rate:One gallon per 1,000 square feet
    • Nitrogen release:Quick- and slow-release
    • Listed turf suitability:All grass types
    Our verdict
    “Choose PetraTools for a sprayable lawn feed that pairs an earlier nitrogen response with sustained release.”
  4. 18-3-6 All Purpose Liquid Fertilizer & Micro Nutrients (32 oz.)

    18-3-6 All Purpose Liquid Fertilizer & Micro Nutrients (32 oz.)

    Best Liquid Pick for Mixed Plantings

    View on Amazon

    Half of this fertilizer’s nitrogen is listed as slow release, giving it a more sustained profile than a liquid feed with no slow-release share specified. Its 18-3-6 analysis and added copper, iron, manganese, and zinc make it a fit for buyers tending both indoor and outdoor plants, rather than a lawn-only product such as PetraTools Liquid Nitrogen Fertilizer. PetraTools pairs quick and slow nitrogen for turf; this 32-ounce bottle instead emphasizes a broader set of micronutrients and measured liquid application. That versatility has a maintenance cost: the listed application interval is every 2–4 weeks, so it does not match Agriform’s much longer stated feeding period. The derived nutrient sources are chemical compounds, which may not suit organic gardeners, and careful measuring matters when applying a concentrated liquid.

    Pros:
    • 50% of total nitrogen is listed as slow release
    • Includes copper, iron, manganese, and zinc
    • Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
    • Squeeze bottle supports measured pouring
    Cons:
    • Listed application interval of every 2–4 weeks requires regular upkeep
    • Precise measuring is needed when mixing or applying
    • Chemical nutrient sources may not suit organic gardening preferences

    Best for: Gardeners who want a measured liquid fertilizer with slow-release nitrogen and micronutrients for indoor and outdoor plants

    Not ideal for: Organic gardeners or buyers seeking a single application to feed plants for many months

    • Nutrient content:18-3-6
    • Package size:32 oz.
    • Slow-release nitrogen:50%
    • Total nitrogen:18%
    • Phosphoric acid:3%
    • Soluble potash:6%
    • Micronutrients:Copper 0.05%, iron 0.1%, manganese 0.05%, zinc 0.05%
    • Application:Indoor and outdoor use
    Our verdict
    “Choose this liquid when micronutrients and a slow-release nitrogen share matter across mixed indoor and outdoor plantings.”
  5. The Andersons Deep Green 24-0-11 Lawn Fertilizer, 40 lb

    The Andersons Deep Green 24-0-11 Lawn Fertilizer, 40 lb

    Best for Large Lawns and Deep Turf Color

    View on Amazon

    Deep Green pairs quick- and slow-release nitrogen with a granular format for owners feeding larger stretches of turf. The stated feeding period of up to eight weeks is shorter than Greenway Biotech Nitroform’s 3–4 month window, but this 24-0-11 blend adds potassium plus iron and manganese to support turf color. That makes it a more targeted lawn choice when color and a steady growth pattern matter alongside nitrogen. The 40-pound bag is listed to cover up to 10,000 square feet, which suits broad applications better than the 2-pound Nitroform package. Its nitrogen-only counterpart, Nitroform, may better suit mixed plantings or longer intervals. Deep Green’s key tradeoff is the shorter stated feeding period, and the coverage figure should be checked against the product label before spreading.

    Pros:
    • Combines quick- and slow-release nitrogen
    • Feeds for up to eight weeks
    • Includes 2% iron and manganese
    • Granular 40-pound format is suited to larger turf areas
    Cons:
    • Feeding interval is shorter than Nitroform’s stated 3–4 months
    • Formula supplies no phosphorus
    • Listed coverage should be confirmed on the product label

    Best for: Homeowners with a large lawn who want granular nitrogen feeding, added potassium, and deeper turf color

    Not ideal for: Gardeners seeking a fertilizer for flowers or vegetables, or buyers prioritizing the longest stated feeding interval

    • Formula:24-0-11
    • Form:Granules
    • Weight:40 lb
    • Listed coverage:Up to 10,000 sq ft
    • Nitrogen release:Quick- and slow-release
    • Feeding duration:Up to 8 weeks
    • Added nutrients:2% iron and manganese
    • Suitable for:All turf types
    Our verdict
    “Choose Deep Green for larger lawns where a granular application, added potassium, and turf color support outweigh a shorter feeding window.”
  6. Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food Plus Outdoor & Indoor, 8 lbs

    Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food Plus Outdoor & Indoor, 8 lbs

    Best for Mixed Plantings

    View on Amazon

    Osmocote’s resin-coated granules release nutrients over a longer window than GreenView Fairway Formula, making this the more flexible pick for beds and containers with different kinds of plants. Its up to six months of feeding can reduce how often a gardener needs to fertilize, while 11 essential nutrients suit flowers, vegetables, trees, and indoor plants. The broad use range is its main advantage in a roundup otherwise weighted toward lawn products. The tradeoff is that it needs to be worked into soil, so it is less convenient for someone who wants to spread fertilizer across turf. Its release period is also shorter than a full season for some gardens, and the supplied data does not specify a nitrogen percentage, so buyers focused on a measured high-nitrogen lawn treatment may prefer a lawn-specific formula.

    Pros:
    • Feeds for up to six months through a resin coating
    • Suitable for indoor and outdoor plants, including flowers, vegetables, and trees
    • Includes 11 essential nutrients
    • Covers up to 300 sq. ft.
    Cons:
    • Requires manual application and mixing into soil
    • May need reapplication after six months
    • Nitrogen percentage is not specified in the supplied product data

    Best for: Gardeners feeding a mix of indoor plants, outdoor beds, vegetables, and trees with one controlled-release granule

    Not ideal for: Lawn owners seeking a high-nitrogen product with a stated nitrogen percentage and broad turf coverage

    • Weight:8 lbs
    • Coverage:Up to 300 sq. ft.
    • Nutrients:11 essential nutrients
    • Feeding duration:Up to 6 months
    • Release mechanism:Resin-coated granules
    • Suitable uses:Indoor and outdoor plants, including flowers, vegetables, and trees
    Our verdict
    “Choose Osmocote for mixed plantings that benefit from months of controlled feeding, but choose a lawn-specific formula for high-nitrogen turf care.”
  7. CountryMax Urea Fertilizer 46-0-0, 50LB Bag – High Nitrogen Lawn Fertilizer for Fast Green-Up

    CountryMax Urea Fertilizer 46-0-0, 50LB Bag – High Nitrogen Lawn Fertilizer for Fast Green-Up

    Best for Fast Green-Up

    View on Amazon

    CountryMax Urea 46-0-0 is the high-nitrogen choice here, aimed at buyers who want a quick green-up rather than the steady feeding of a slow-release product. Compared with GreenView Fairway Formula, which gets 63% of its nitrogen from slow-release sources and feeds for up to 12 weeks, this urea is positioned for rapid growth and does not provide a stated slow-release duration. Its 50 lb bag and spreader application suit large lawns or other sizable plantings, but the high nitrogen concentration leaves less room for application error. Overapplication can damage plants or contribute to runoff, so careful measuring and following the label matter. I would shortlist it for buyers prioritizing fast nitrogen delivery and broad coverage, but skip it if gradual feeding is the main goal.

    Pros:
    • 46% nitrogen supports rapid green-up
    • 50 lb bag suits extensive lawn and garden use
    • Can be applied with broadcast or drop spreaders
    • Listed for lawns, gardens, crops, trees, and shrubs
    Cons:
    • No slow-release duration is stated in the supplied product data
    • High nitrogen concentration calls for careful application
    • Overapplication can contribute to runoff

    Best for: Owners of large lawns or growing areas who need a spreader-applied, high-nitrogen fertilizer for rapid green-up

    Not ideal for: Buyers seeking slow-release nitrogen or a longer feeding interval with less frequent application

    • Nutrient ratio:46-0-0
    • Weight:50 lbs
    • Fertilizer type:Urea
    • Application:Granular
    • Spreader compatibility:Broadcast and drop spreaders
    • Listed uses:Lawns, gardens, crops, trees, and shrubs
    Our verdict
    “Pick CountryMax for rapid nitrogen delivery across a large area, but choose GreenView Fairway Formula if slow, sustained feeding is your priority.”
  8. GreenView Fairway Formula Lawn Fertilizer, 33 lb, Covers 10,000 sq. ft.

    GreenView Fairway Formula Lawn Fertilizer, 33 lb, Covers 10,000 sq. ft.

    Best Overall for Large Lawns

    View on Amazon

    GreenView Fairway Formula in the 33 lb bag is my lead pick for a large lawn when the goal is sustained nitrogen feeding. Its 63% slow-release nitrogen supports steadier growth and color for up to 12 weeks, a meaningful difference from CountryMax Urea 46-0-0, which is described as promoting rapid green-up but has no slow-release interval listed. The phosphate-free formula suits buyers who want lawn feeding without added phosphate, and coverage of up to 10,000 sq. ft. makes this size practical for broad turf areas. The tradeoff is that it is for grass actively growing, so it does not fit every application window. Buyers with smaller lawns can get the same stated formula in GreenView’s 16.5 lb bag and avoid handling the larger package.

    Pros:
    • 63% slow-release nitrogen feeds for up to 12 weeks
    • Covers up to 10,000 sq. ft.
    • Phosphate-free formula
    • Suitable for any grass type
    Cons:
    • Must be applied while grass is actively growing
    • Large bag may be awkward for smaller properties
    • Application guidance depends on following the package directions

    Best for: Owners of large lawns who want high slow-release nitrogen and up to 12 weeks of feeding across any grass type

    Not ideal for: People treating small lawns or applying fertilizer when their grass is not actively growing

    • Weight:33 lb
    • Coverage:Up to 10,000 sq. ft.
    • Slow-release nitrogen:63%
    • Feeding duration:Up to 12 weeks
    • Formula:Phosphate-free
    • Suitable grass:Any grass type
    • Application timing:While grass is actively growing
    Our verdict
    “Choose the 33 lb GreenView bag for broad lawn coverage and sustained slow-release nitrogen, or the 16.5 lb size for a smaller area.”
  9. GreenView Fairway Formula Lawn Fertilizer, 16.5 lb

    GreenView Fairway Formula Lawn Fertilizer, 16.5 lb

    Best for Smaller Lawns

    View on Amazon

    The 16.5 lb GreenView Fairway Formula keeps the same slow-release profile as its 33 lb counterpart while covering up to 5,000 sq. ft. That makes it a better fit for a smaller lawn than the larger bag, which covers twice the area. Like the 33 lb option, it delivers 63% slow-release nitrogen for up to 12 weeks, so buyers do not have to give up the extended feeding window to get a more manageable size. It is phosphate-free and suitable for any grass type. The main limitation is timing: the supplied data says to apply while grass is actively growing. If you need a fast nitrogen treatment, CountryMax Urea 46-0-0 is framed for rapid green-up, but it does not offer this product’s stated slow-release percentage or feeding duration.

    Pros:
    • 63% slow-release nitrogen feeds for up to 12 weeks
    • Covers up to 5,000 sq. ft.
    • Phosphate-free formula
    • Suitable for any grass type
    Cons:
    • Must be applied while grass is actively growing
    • Coverage is half that of the 33 lb GreenView bag
    • Application timing limits when it can be used

    Best for: Homeowners with lawns up to about 5,000 sq. ft. who want slow-release feeding in a manageable bag

    Not ideal for: Owners of larger lawns who want to cover the full area with one bag, or anyone fertilizing outside active growth

    • Weight:16.5 lb
    • Coverage:Up to 5,000 sq. ft.
    • Slow-release nitrogen:63%
    • Feeding duration:Up to 12 weeks
    • Formula:Phosphate-free
    • Suitable grass:Any grass type
    • Model number:2129187
    Our verdict
    “Choose this smaller GreenView size for up to 5,000 sq. ft. of turf needing sustained feeding, and the 33 lb bag for larger lawns.”
  10. All Purpose Liquid Fertilizer with Micronutrients, 24-0-4, 32oz

    All Purpose Liquid Fertilizer with Micronutrients, 24-0-4, 32oz

    Best Liquid Option

    View on Amazon

    This 24-0-4 liquid fertilizer pairs slow-release nitrogen with copper, iron, manganese, and zinc, giving ornamentals and turf a micronutrient blend in a pourable format. Its listed nitrogen release is 50% slow-release, though the application schedule is much more frequent than GreenView Fairway Formula’s feeding interval: ornamentals need it every two weeks, and turf every two to four weeks. That makes this a fit for buyers who want a liquid application routine and added micronutrients, rather than the longer gaps offered by GreenView’s granular lawn fertilizer. The 32 oz bottle is also a more limited format for broad-area lawn treatment than the GreenView bags, and the listed uses do not cover every plant type. Check that the target plants match the label before choosing it.

    Pros:
    • 50% slow-release nitrogen
    • Includes copper, iron, manganese, and zinc
    • Listed for ornamentals and turf
    • Pour bottle supports measured application
    Cons:
    • Requires repeat application every two weeks for ornamentals or every two to four weeks for turf
    • Listed uses may not suit all plant types
    • 32 oz bottle offers a different scale of application from the large lawn bags

    Best for: Gardeners and turf owners who prefer a measured liquid feed with slow-release nitrogen and listed micronutrients

    Not ideal for: People seeking a low-maintenance, long-interval fertilizer or a formula specified for a wide range of plant types

    • N-P-K ratio:24-0-4
    • Size:32 oz
    • Slow-release nitrogen:50%
    • Micronutrients:Copper, iron, manganese, and zinc
    • Ornamental application frequency:Every 2 weeks
    • Turf application frequency:Every 2–4 weeks
    • Listed uses:Ornamentals and turf
    Our verdict
    “Choose this liquid for ornamentals or turf when micronutrients and pourable application matter more than GreenView’s longer feeding interval.”
slow release nitrogen fertilizers
What makes a great slow release nitrogen fertilizer
1
Match the release claim to your feeding schedule
“Slow release” can refer to different materials and release patterns, so look for the product’s stated nitrogen sources and instru
2
Choose by growing area, not just package size
Lawn fertilizers are designed to spread over turf, while container foods and tablets target smaller planting areas.
3
Read the full nutrient analysis for your plants
The three numbers on a fertilizer label describe nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium proportions, so the nitrogen figure is only o
4
Decide whether liquid, granular, or tablet application fits
Liquid products can be easy to distribute with suitable equipment and can work for targeted feeding, but they require accurate dil
How to choose your slow release nitrogen fertilizer
1
How we picked
I ranked these products by how clearly their stated format and intended use support a buyer looking for slow-release nit
2
Match the release claim to your feeding schedule
“Slow release” can refer to different materials and release patterns, so look for the product’s stated nitrogen sources
3
Choose by growing area, not just package size
Lawn fertilizers are designed to spread over turf, while container foods and tablets target smaller planting areas.
4
Read the full nutrient analysis for your plants
The three numbers on a fertilizer label describe nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium proportions, so the nitrogen figure
5
Decide whether liquid, granular, or tablet application fits
Liquid products can be easy to distribute with suitable equipment and can work for targeted feeding, but they require ac
Vetted slow release nitrogen fertilizers ·
The best slow release nitrogen fertilizers, compared
★ Winner Greenway Biotech Nitroform 39-
Best Overall for Long-Lasting Nitrogen
10compared
50 lbstop weight
5feeding durations

How We Picked

I ranked these products by how clearly their stated format and intended use support a buyer looking for slow-release nitrogen. I weighed lawn versus container suitability, nutrient balance, ease of applying the product to the right area, and practical details such as listed coverage. Products with a named slow-release format or plant-feeding use case rank ahead of options whose titles emphasize liquid feeding or fast green-up.

The lineup includes products whose names alone do not specify the nitrogen release mechanism. I have not treated a high nitrogen analysis as proof of slow release, and buyers should check the package label for release type, duration, and directions before applying. That distinction shapes the order: a strong lawn formula can still be a poor match for pots, and a targeted tablet can be a better fit for individual plants than a large-area product.

Everyday → specialist
Everyday & valuePremium & specialist
Which slow release nitrogen fertilizer fits you?
The everyday user
All-round, reliable
The enthusiast
Premium & high-performance
The gift-giver
Looks & craftsmanship

Factors to Consider When Choosing Slow Release Nitrogen Fertilizers

Start with where the fertilizer will go and how the label says its nitrogen becomes available. That check helps prevent a common mistake: choosing by the first number in the analysis and overlooking release behavior, plant type, or application scale.

Match the release claim to your feeding schedule

“Slow release” can refer to different materials and release patterns, so look for the product’s stated nitrogen sources and instructions rather than relying on the category wording alone. The label may describe a coated, tablet-based, or other controlled-release format and give an expected feeding period. That information helps you decide whether one application fits your routine or whether you need a product that allows more frequent adjustments. A high nitrogen percentage tells you how concentrated the fertilizer is, not how quickly plants receive it. If the release details are missing, contact the manufacturer or choose a product with clearer directions. Match the schedule to the plants’ needs and the label’s application intervals.

Choose by growing area, not just package size

Lawn fertilizers are designed to spread over turf, while container foods and tablets target smaller planting areas. A large bag may make sense for a broad lawn, but it can be awkward to measure for a handful of pots. Conversely, a small liquid bottle may be convenient for spot feeding yet require repeated mixing across a large yard. Check the stated coverage and application rate before comparing package quantities. For beds or individual plants, targeted formats can limit where the fertilizer goes, though placement still needs to follow the label. Buy for the area you can apply correctly within the product’s instructions.

Read the full nutrient analysis for your plants

The three numbers on a fertilizer label describe nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium proportions, so the nitrogen figure is only one part of the choice. A lawn formula with additional nutrients may suit turf when its label and soil needs support them, while a nitrogen-focused product has a narrower role. Avoid applying phosphorus or other nutrients simply because they appear in a blend; local rules and soil conditions may affect whether they are appropriate. For established turf, soil testing can help identify what is actually needed. For containers, consider whether the product is meant to provide a broader nutrient mix. Choose the analysis for the plant and site instead of assuming the highest first number is best.

Decide whether liquid, granular, or tablet application fits

Liquid products can be easy to distribute with suitable equipment and can work for targeted feeding, but they require accurate dilution and careful coverage. Granules are often practical for treating lawn areas, though a spreader setting and even application matter to avoid stripes or concentrated patches. Tablets simplify placement around specific plants but are not a natural fit for covering turf. Think about the tools you own, the area’s shape, and your ability to apply the product evenly. Wind, runoff, and watering instructions can also affect the application choice. A convenient format is only useful if it fits the site and the label directions.

Treat high nitrogen as a specific tool

High-nitrogen formulas can support leafy growth or lawn color when nitrogen is needed, but they can also be the wrong choice for plants with different nutrient requirements. Too much nitrogen may produce excessive growth or stress plants, and the risk depends on dose, timing, plant type, and conditions. Do not use a fast-green-up claim as evidence of prolonged feeding; check whether the label describes a slow-release component. Compare the recommended rate with your intended use and avoid stacking products that supply overlapping nitrogen. When growth response is not the only goal, a balanced formula or soil test may guide a better choice. The right strength is the one that matches a documented need.

Check label details before buying for pets, weather, or storage

Application precautions vary by formulation, so read the label for watering, re-entry, protective equipment, and storage directions. Some products may need watering in, while others may specify a dry application window; rain or irrigation can change how fertilizer moves through the soil. Keep granules, liquids, and tablets stored as directed and away from children and animals. Confirm the product is labeled for the plant and site you plan to treat, especially around edible crops or sensitive plantings. Package coverage and application rate are also practical checks that help reduce leftovers and misapplication. If any use instruction is unclear, get guidance from the manufacturer before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a 46-0-0 fertilizer automatically provide slow-release nitrogen?

No. The 46-0-0 analysis describes nutrient proportions, not how quickly nitrogen is released. The CountryMax product name highlights urea and fast green-up, so a buyer seeking sustained feeding should check its label for any controlled-release ingredient or mechanism. If the label does not specify one, do not assume it behaves like a slow-release product. Match the application timing and rate to the instructions for your lawn or plants.

Can I use a lawn fertilizer on potted plants?

Only if the product label explicitly supports that use and gives directions for containers. Lawn formulas are intended for turf application, and their rate or nutrient balance may not suit a small volume of potting mix. A container-focused product such as Osmocote is a more direct starting point for mixed indoor and outdoor pots. Check the plant’s needs, container size, and application directions before using any fertilizer. Avoid estimating a lawn rate for a pot.

Are fertilizer tablets better than granules for a garden bed?

They solve different placement problems. Tablets can make sense when you want to feed a limited number of individual plants, while granules are easier to distribute across a larger area when the product is labeled for beds. Tablet placement may take more time across many plants, and broad application of granules needs careful measuring to avoid uneven feeding. Check whether the label covers your plant type and whether the product should contact roots or be placed nearby. Choose based on bed size and the application directions.

Should I choose liquid fertilizer for faster results?

A liquid format does not by itself mean faster or slower nitrogen release; the nutrient sources and label claims determine that. Liquids can be convenient to mix and apply, but they may require repeat applications and careful dilution. If sustained feeding is your priority, verify the release mechanism and duration rather than inferring them from the format. For a lawn, compare the stated coverage and equipment needs with a granular option. Follow the label’s schedule instead of adding more because results are not immediate.

How do I decide between the two GreenView Fairway Formula bag sizes?

Use the coverage and application rate printed on each package, then compare them with the area you plan to treat. The 33 lb listing states coverage of 10,000 square feet, which can help with planning a broad lawn application. The 16.5 lb size may be easier to handle for a smaller area, but confirm its label coverage rather than assuming it is exactly half. Check that both packages share the same formulation and directions. Avoid buying more than you can store or apply within the product’s instructions.

Conclusion

For a broad lawn application, I would start with GreenView Fairway Formula 33 lb as the best overall pick, based on its turf focus and stated coverage. The smaller GreenView bag is the practical value choice when you need less product and its label coverage matches your yard; I would not equate package size with a lower cost without checking current listings. Osmocote Smart-Release is my beginner-friendly choice for buyers caring for both indoor and outdoor containers, while Agriform tablets fit targeted plantings. For a premium-style lawn option, compare The Andersons Deep Green’s lawn formulation with your turf needs and verify its nitrogen release details on the label. If you specifically need high nitrogen, assess the urea and liquid formulas only after confirming whether their release behavior matches your goal. The best choice is the one whose label supports your plant, area, and feeding schedule.

HALLOWEEN

Halloween Picks

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

You May Also Like

4 Best 4K Color E-Ink Monitors for Eye Comfort in 2026: Enhance Your Viewing Experience

Discover the top 4k color e ink monitors in 2026, perfect for eye comfort. Compare ultra-low power displays, vibrant screens, and smart dashboards for every need.

11 Best Ergonomic Pillows for Side Sleepers in 2026

Discover the best ergonomic pillows for side sleepers in 2026. Find top picks for comfort, support, and pain relief tailored to side sleeping needs.

13 Best Lockable Storage Cabinets for Wellness Tools in 2026

Discover the top lockable storage cabinets for wellness tools in 2026. Find the best options for security, size, ease of use, and value in this expert roundup.

14 Best Plumbing Pipe Cutter Ratschets That Make Your Job Easier

Discover the top plumbing pipe cutter ratchets in 2026, including the best overall, value picks, and specialized options for tight spaces and heavy-duty work.