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Granular vs. Liquid Lawn Products: Application Strategy

Rotary Spreader Advantages

Granular applications via rotary spreader offer superior control, uniformity, and cost-effectiveness for most homeowners. Liquid requires precise calibration, drift management, and expensive equipment.

Granular Best Practices

Set spreader at lowest opening
Multiple passes at right angles
Calculate rate: lbs needed = (target N/1000 sq ft) × (area/1000) ÷ (N% ÷ 100)
Example: 12,500 sq ft at 1 lb N/1000 with 29-5-5 = 43 lbs total

Weed Control Strategy

Broadleaf weeds: Spot-treat with 2,4-D spray bottle (Weed-B-Gon)
Crabgrass: Preemergent granular next spring (timing per Extension)
Avoid broadcast weed-and-feed—wastes herbicide on weed-free areas

Fertilizer Calculator

Texas A&M Fertilizer Calculator for precise rates.

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