Slow Releasers

Slow-release fertilizers (SRF) provide a steady supply of plant nutrients over an extended period of time. They contain plant nutrient(s) (mostly nitrogen) in a form that delays their initial availability.Slow-release fertilizers can be used anytime, but they are especially beneficial in the spring and fall. This is because the nutrients are released slowly over a period of time, which helps to prevent nutrient deficiencies during these times of year when plants are actively growing.A slow-release fertilizer delivers nutrients in a slow and steady manner. But what it lacks in speed, it makes up for being consistent. Depending on the brand, formula, and lawn conditions, the nutrients can stay in the soil for around six to eight weeks.The science behind the slow delivery is the coating, which is usually made of semi-permeable polymer or resin. It acts as a barrier that holds the nutrients inside and releases them in a controlled manner when it meets a specific condition, such as watering or soil microbial activity.There are different methods in regulating the release but most of them fall on these three approaches: diffusion, osmosis, and microbial decomposition. The first two methods use water to break down the coating or allow the nutrients to pass through. On the other hand, the third method relies on soil microbes to dismantle the coating.When you apply a slow-release fertilizer, expect the granules to dissolve within 48 hours, depending on the brand. However, with the nutrients available for up to eight weeks, this slow release time is negligible if your turf doesn’t need the supplements right away.