Phosphates That Make Grass Grow Faster and More Efficiently

Phosphates' Role in Root Growth

• Phosphates make grass grow faster and more efficiently by stimulating the growth of the root system. When grass has a healthy root system, it can better absorb nutrients from the soil and use them to produce healthy green shoots. Too much phosphate in the soil, however, can inhibit the uptake of minerals. Signs of too little phosphate include grass blades with a reddish or grayish hue.

Effects Over Time

• A healthy root system impacts the pace and efficiency of grass growth throughout the year. While the top part of the grass plant is dormant in the winter, phosphates help roots grow deeper and stronger. A deep root system results in an earlier start to the growing season in spring. In summer, the roots can more efficiently take up water and nutrients that encourage growth, such as nitrogen. Phosphates encourage sideways-sprouting of grass in the early fall so that lawns appear thicker.

When To Apply

• Lawn experts recommend fertilizing with a phosphate-rich lawn fertilizer that contains potash and slow-release nitrogen in the early fall, especially after a hot summer. Extra phosphates in the fall encourage root development during colder months. To find the right high-phosphorus fall fertilizer, look at the nutrient percentages on the bag, listed as N-P-K for nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Many fall lawn fertilizers will also contain weed killers.

Lawn Fertilizers With Phosphates

• To make phosphates for lawn application, fertilizer manufacturers convert a raw calcium phosphorus mineral ore called rock phosphate into mineral phosphates that grass can take up via the root system. Bone meal is another common source of phosphates, just as potash is a source of potassium. Many lawn fertilizers formulated for fall or autumn application will contain more phosphates than other types of grass fertilizers.