Iron supplements are your secret weapon for achieving a lush, deep green lawn that will make the neighbors envious. Many homeowners focus on nitrogen-based fertilizers, but iron can help enhance grass color without promoting excessive growth. We’ll explore iron supplements, how and when to use them, and the best application methods for a healthier, more vibrant lawn.
Why Lawns Need Iron
Iron is an essential micronutrient that plays a vital role in chlorophyll production. Chlorophyll is responsible for giving plants their green color. Without sufficient iron, they can develop a yellow or pale green appearance, a condition known as iron chlorosis. Supplementing with iron helps enhance the deep green color of your grass, improves overall lawn health, and boosts your lawn’s stress resistance. Iron also helps control moss and is the active ingredient in products such as Moss Out.
Iron is particularly effective for cool-season grasses such as fescue and Kentucky bluegrass. It helps them maintain their color during hot summer months without the increased growth and water needs associated with nitrogen fertilizers.
Types of Iron Lawn Supplements
There are two main categories of iron supplements for lawn care: synthetic and organic. Each type has its advantages, benefits, and challenges.
Synthetic Iron Fertilizers
Synthetic iron fertilizers provide your lawn with a boost of iron. They’re inexpensive and often show results in days. Synthetic supplements are available in granular and liquid forms.
Ironite and foliar sprays are popular synthetic products. Synthetic iron fertilizers are effective but require careful application to avoid potential drawbacks:
- Over-application can turn the lawn gray.
- They may stain concrete and other surfaces a rusty-orange color.
- Plants may not as readily absorb some formulations.
Organic Iron Fertilizers
Organic iron sources offer a more natural approach to supplementing lawn iron levels. These products include:
- Milorganite: A slow-release fertilizer made from processed sewage sludge
- Greensand: A naturally occurring mineral rich in iron and other trace elements
- Compost and other organic matter high in iron content
Advantages of organic iron fertilizers include:
- Naturally chelated iron, which plants absorb more easily
- Slower release, providing long-lasting benefits
- Additional nutrients that improve overall soil health
- Less likely to stain concrete or other surfaces
Organic options take longer to show results but offer a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to lawn care.
How to Apply Iron Lawn Supplements
When applying iron supplements, you must be careful not to damage your lawn or surrounding areas. Key steps are:
- Conduct a soil test to determine if your lawn needs iron.
- Choose the appropriate type of iron supplement based on lawn needs and preferences.
- Follow package instructions carefully to avoid over-application.
- Apply iron supplements when temperatures are mild, typically in spring or fall.
- Water the lawn thoroughly after application to help the iron penetrate the soil.
Use a spreader for granular products to ensure even distribution. Apply liquid iron supplements with a sprayer, and avoid overspray on non-target areas. These strategies help iron reach the grass efficiently while minimizing the risk of adverse effects.
When to Apply Iron to Lawns
We recommend applying iron in the spring or fall for the best results.
Spring
Give your lawn a boost in early spring as it emerges from winter dormancy. A springtime kickstart helps the lawn emerge healthy and vibrant as it moves into the more demanding seasons. Applying iron in spring can encourage robust green-up, enhance health and appearance, and prepare the lawn for the stresses of summer.
Fall
Fall applications help lawns recover from summer stress and prepare for winter. Fall iron application helps strengthen grassroots before winter, improves cold tolerance, and makes for a quicker green-up in spring.
Don’t apply iron during extreme heat or drought, which can further stress your lawn. Always water thoroughly before and after an iron application.
Signs That Your Lawn May Benefit From Iron Supplements
Not all yellow or pale lawns necessarily need iron. Before applying iron supplements, look for these signs that indicate a potential deficiency:
- Yellowing between leaf veins while veins remain green
- Overall pale or yellow-green appearance, especially in newer growth
- Poor response to regular fertilization
- Slow growth or thinning of the lawn
Before assuming iron is the solution, try to rule out other causes of yellowing, such as overwatering, pest infestations, or other nutrient deficiencies.
Tips and Tricks for Iron Application
Use our expert tips to get the most out of iron supplements and avoid potential issues.
Apply With Care
Wear gloves and protective clothing when applying iron to avoid staining your skin and clothes. Clean up any spills on hard surfaces immediately to prevent staining. We recommend using a drop spreader rather than a broadcast spreader to minimize overspray.
Vary Your Application
We recommend alternating between synthetic and organic iron sources for balanced nutrition. Use foliar sprays for quick results and granular applications for long-term benefits. For comprehensive lawn care, combine iron supplements with regular fertilization.
Work With Professionals
A lawn care professional can provide tailored advice and guarantee proper treatment. We recommend hiring help if you’re uncomfortable handling treatment or the problem is severe.
Potential Risks and Precautions
Iron supplements can be great for your lawn, but be aware of the risks:
- Over-application can lead to lawn discoloration or burning.
- Iron supplements can stain concrete, clothing, and other surfaces.
- Some pets may be attracted to iron-rich fertilizers, which can be harmful if ingested.
Always store iron supplements that are out of reach of children and pets, and follow all manufacturer safety guidelines.
