How to Fertilize a Lawn With Ammonium Phosphate

Ammonium phosphate (16-20-0) is a commonly used lawn fertilizer, classified as a quick-release form of nitrogen. These types of fertilizers make nitrogen available faster than slow-release formulas and they are less expensive. Because of the quick-release, however, care must be used because it has a tendency to burn the grass. The rate of application of ammonium phosphate and the timing of application depends on the type of grass you are growing and environmental conditions. For instance, shade-grown grass requires less fertilizer than that grown in full sun.

Broadcast or drop-type fertilizer spreader

Instructions

- 1
  Calibrate the fertilizer spreader according to the chart on the back of the ammonium phosphate package.
- 2
  Add half the required amount of ammonium phosphate listed on the package to the fertilizer spreader.
- 3
  Walk briskly back and forth in strips along the length of the lawn, spreading the fertilizer as you go. Close the hopper when stopping or making turns.
- 4
  Add the remaining ammonium phosphate to the spreader and walk crosswise over the first application, spreading the fertilizer as you walk. This crisscross pattern helps prevent streaks on the lawn.
- 5
  Water the lawn until the top 6 inches of soil is wet. This helps distribute the ammonium phosphate into the grass's root zone.

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