6 Different Nitrogen Sources for the Lawn (2024)

Nitrogen is a key macronutrient for your lawn and is needed for photosynthesis. If your soil is lacking, you can turn to different nitrogen sources for your lawn: grass clippings, animal products, biosolids, commercial fertilizer, inorganic sources, and urea.

Choosing the right nitrogen source can make all the difference in achieving that vibrant yard you have in mind. Discover which source is best for your lawn.

6 Different Nitrogen Sources for Your Lawn

Nitrogen fertilizer is a superfood for your lawn, providing the essential nutrients that help your grass grow green and strong. It is a key part of important molecules like chlorophyll, which makes your grass green, and proteins, which help it grow.

Before you add nitrogen to your lawn, you need to perform a soil test to know if your lawn needs it. If it does, there are different methods for adding nitrogen. You just have to pick the best one for you.

1. Grass Clippings

Grass clippings are a great source of nitrogen, along with potassium and phosphorus, which help feed your lawn.

When you mow, leave short clippings (about an inch or less) on the lawn. They’ll break down quickly, returning nutrients to the soil. This also adds organic matter, which is especially helpful for improving any type of soil. Just be sure to remove longer clippings, as they can block sunlight and harm your grass.

2. Animal Products

Animal products are rich sources of nitrogen. Here are some commonly used animal-based fertilizers:

• Fish products: Available as fish emulsion, meal, powder, or liquid, made from fish leftovers. They have a strong odor but provide a good nitrogen boost for your lawn.

• Feather meal: Made from poultry feathers, it’s processed under heat and pressure. Feather meal is a rich source of nitrogen that is released slowly over time.

• Blood meal: Made from dried animal blood, it is high in nitrogen and decomposes gradually, offering long-lasting nutrient release.

• Bone meal: Made from animal bones, it contains both nitrogen and phosphorus, promoting healthy grass and strong root growth.

• Manure: Waste from cows, chickens, and horses, it’s rich in nitrogen. Chicken manure has the highest content, but make sure to compost manure first, as fresh manure can burn your lawn.

3. Biosolids

Biosolids are a good source of nitrogen for your lawn. They are created through the wastewater treatment process. Solids are separated from liquids and then treated to produce a nutrient-rich material. When properly treated and EPA-authorized, biosolids are safe to use on your lawn, providing essential nutrients for healthy grass growth.

While biosolids may emit some odor, this does not indicate a risk to human health or the environment. The nutrient content makes them a valuable, eco-friendly option for lawn care.

4. Commercial Fertilizer

Commercial fertilizers are products that come in a variety of formulas, but the best ones contain the three essential nutrients your lawn needs the most: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Always check the numbers on the fertilizer bag. The first number in the series indicates the nitrogen content. Most commercial fertilizers are formulated with a blend of different nitrogen sources, offering quick-release and slow-release options.

5. Inorganic Sources of Nitrogen

Inorganic fertilizers are a common and budget-friendly way to give your lawn a quick nitrogen boost. Popular options like ammonium nitrate, calcium nitrate, and ammonium sulfate dissolve easily, so your grass absorbs the nutrients fast, giving you rapid, visible results.

That said, be careful when using these fertilizers. If too much is applied or if there’s not enough water, they can burn your grass. To keep your lawn safe and healthy, make sure to follow the instructions and water properly after applying.

6. Urea

Urea is a common form of synthetic nitrogen. It’s a quick-release fertilizer on its own. The release rate of nitrogen from coated urea depends on factors such as the thickness of the coating, temperature, and soil moisture.

Urea can be combined with other substances or coated to create slow-release fertilizers. These formulas offer a gradual release of nitrogen over time.

FAQ About Nitrogen Sources for the Lawn

How do I know if my lawn is nitrogen-deficient?

If your lawn is nitrogen deficient, the grass turns yellow and loses its strength. Grass leaves turn yellow and brown on the edges. Check these “5 Tell-Tale Signs Your Lawn Needs Fertilizer”.

How can I add nitrogen to my grass?

The best way to give your lawn the nitrogen it needs is by using a well-balanced lawn fertilizer. Before you do that, make sure to do a soil test to understand exactly what your lawn needs.

What is the most natural source of nitrogen for lawns?

The richest organic sources of nitrogen for your lawn are animal products like manure and blood meal.

When to Hire a Pro

After applying nitrogen fertilizer to your lawn, get ready to see wonderful results. Just remember, a well-fed lawn also needs regular maintenance, like mowing. If you need a hand, contact a local lawn professional to keep your lawn in its best condition.

Main Photo Credit: sayan / Adobe Stock