It works the best, but...
Written: Oct 20 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Easy to use, best greening, slow release
Cons: Stains, more expensive
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| dtauer's Full Review: Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Fertilizer |
The first time I used Scotts Turfbuilder I was disappointed in the results. I tried to time the application so the lawn would be at it's peak color for a special occasion at our house. Based on the generic lawn fertilizers I had used in the past I figured 4-5 days should be plenty to green it up. I was very wrong. My mistake, and actually a benefit of this fertilizer, is that it is a very slow release. Where a cheap fertilizer may green up your lawn in a few days, Turfbuilder takes a little over a week here in Minnesota, at least on my lawn.
The slow release of the fertilizer helps the lawn green up gradually and often more evenly. Have you ever seen a lawn in the summer that is such a dark green that it looks black in areas? This is SOMETIMES due to using a fast release fertilizer and then not receiving enough moisture. The fast release fertilizers hit the lawn with the nutrients all at once and it stresses the lawn. Then, if there is a lack of water, it gets the "green/black" look to it. Often, if this is the case, the lawn won't feel plush either, it will feel "crunchy" even though it has a green look to it. Turfbuilder lessens this possibility by slowly releasing the nutrients, this makes for a more even color as well as a more lasting green.
Turfbuilder is easy to apply but I've found that I get the best results from a broadcast spreader. With a drop spreader I didn't get the consistent green color I was looking for. Some have said that using a drop spreader just takes more practice, which is probably true, but I'm so happy with a broadcast spreader I'm not sure why I'd switch.
Scotts Turfbuilder costs almost double the generic brands in my area but it's worth it to me in that it gives a better look and I don't need to fertilize as often when I use it as opposed to the generic brands. It is also much less likely to burn which is perfect if there hasn't been much rain.
Note that this product does stain. When I apply it on a lawn that has some moisture it usually ends up staining my shoes and socks. Also, I have small marks on my concrete driveway that look like rust that is actually Turfbuilder overspray that I didn't get swept off.
Our city has recently passed an ordinance banning fertilizers containing phosphorus, which Turbuilder does contain. I wanted to mention that in case others are in a situation like mine where water contamination is an issue.
Overall, I love this product and hope they come out with a phosphorus free version that I can use in my city. Just remember to be patient with it, as it does take longer, and you will eventually be rewarded for buying the best.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
dtauer
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Location: Minnesota
Reviews written: 12
Trusted by: 3 members
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