What is 8-32-16 fertilizer? It’s a type of fertilizer that has an NPK combination of 8% nitrogen, 32% phosphorus, and 16% potassium. This ratio is the most popular for lawns in the U.S. and Canada because it provides balanced nutrients to support healthy growth while preventing nutrient deficiencies or excesses.
What is 8-32-16 Fertilizer Good for?
It can be used on gardens, lawns, and in containers. It contains a high level of phosphorus which promotes root growth as well as potassium to help plants resist diseases and pests. Unlike other fertilizers that have an NPK ratio with more nitrogen than either phosphorus or potassium, this fertilizer has the ideal balance among these three important nutrients.
8-32-16 fertilizer benefits
- Gives your lawn its greenest, healthiest color
- Leaves the grass shinier and silkier
- Promotes deeper roots that are better able to withstand drought conditions
- Prevents winter kill (grass will still turn brown if there is not enough moisture)
When to use it?
In the spring and fall, when the grass needs to be fertilized. Apply it in early March through April or October through November. The time depends on your climate zone: if you live in a warmer area where winters are milder (climate zones A-B), apply this fertilizer between mid-October and late February; for cooler areas with longer winters (zones C-D) wait until December – May.
How to use 8-32-16 fertilizer?
The fertilizer should be broadcast evenly and thinly over your lawn area on a dry day to prevent runoff into storm drains. Water thoroughly after fertilizing for best results.
You can apply this type of fertilizer every year if needed, but it is not necessary more than once in three years when used at recommended rates (this means less than .75 pounds per 1000 square feet).
When using it, you should be aware that this fertilizer is a quick-release type and so the effects of its application will last for about one week. It’s best to cover all areas where lawn grass grows with an even layer when applying it: front yard, backyard, flower beds.
