Use Milorganite for slow organic nitrogen

What to Do

Apply Milorganite (6-4-0) at 16 lbs per 1,000 sq ft in late spring. It releases nitrogen slowly over 8-10 weeks and includes 2.5% iron for natural dark green color without surge growth.

Why It Works

As a biosolid-based organic fertilizer, Milorganite feeds soil microbes as well as the grass. It will not burn the lawn even if slightly over-applied. A 30-year university study found organic fertilizers increased soil organic carbon by 31-71% compared to synthetics, building long-term soil health.

Tips

• Milorganite costs about $5-6 per 1,000 sq ft per application — more than synthetic but with soil-building benefits.
• It requires soil warmth to break down, so it is less effective if applied in early spring when soil is still cold.
• Apply 4 times per year: late spring, summer, early fall, late fall.