The time it takes for a fertilizer treatment to absorb into a lawn depends on several factors. The type of treatment used, whether liquid or granular, plays a role in absorption time. Additionally, the weather conditions in Iowa on the day of application can also affect absorption, with treatments generally being absorbed quicker on warm, sunny days compared to cool, cloudy ones.

For more specific information tailored to your lawn, it's best to consult your lawn care provider. They can provide you with a good estimate of how long it will take for the treatment to absorb and advise you on how long you and your pets should stay off the lawn after application.


The time it takes for fertilizer to be absorbed depends on the type of treatment.

Granular fertilizer being poured for dispersal in Des Moines, IA.

The absorption time of the fertilizer used on your lawn depends on the type of treatment applied. Granular and liquid fertilizers have varying absorption rates, which can impact how quickly your lawn will benefit from the treatment.

Granular fertilizers typically release nutrients slowly over time, providing a steady supply. The absorption process involves the granules being watered in so that they can break down and release the nutrients into the soil, meaning it may take longer for it to completely dry. On the other hand, liquid fertilizers are absorbed more quickly, as they are already in a soluble form. This allows for faster uptake of nutrients by your grass, resulting in more immediate benefits.


Weather on the day of application will also influence how fast a fertilizer is absorbed.

The rate at which your lawn absorbs fertilizer can be significantly influenced by the prevailing weather conditions. When the weather is sunny, the warmth and sunlight can greatly accelerate the breakdown and absorption of the fertilizer by the grass and soil. This can potentially lead to quicker and more effective results in terms of fertilization. Conversely, during periods of reduced sunlight or overcast conditions, the absorption process may slow down due to decreased metabolic activity in the grass.

If it's rainy on the day of fertilization, it can also significantly impact the process. Excessive rainfall can cause the runoff of granular fertilizer, leading to a reduction in its effectiveness. Liquid fertilizer, if not given enough time to dry, might also be washed away by rainfall.


Talk to your lawn care provider to get precise information on the absorption time for fertilizer.

Fertilizer being spread by machine on a lawn in Des Moines, IA.

It is important to have a detailed discussion with your lawn care provider to understand the timeline for the fertilizer's absorption into your lawn. This conversation can provide valuable insights into the fertilizer's specific characteristics and its interaction with your lawn.

Your lawn care provider can offer comprehensive information about the estimated duration for the fertilizer to be fully absorbed, considering factors such as the type of treatment used, the current condition of your lawn, and prevailing weather conditions. Additionally, your lawn care provider can provide guidance on how long you and your pets should avoid the treated area.

It's best to wait until the fertilizer treatments are completely dry before letting your pets back on the lawn to ensure their safety.


Give us a call today to schedule our lawn fertilization service!

At A+ Lawn & Landscape, we pride ourselves in providing top-notch lawn fertilization treatments throughout the growing season. Our team will fertilize your grass six times from early spring until late fall to provide consistent nourishment, and we'll advise you on how long it'll take our treatments to absorb to ensure everyone's safety. We also offer organic applications for those seeking environmentally friendly options.

Our service caters to homeowners, business owners, and HOAs in Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, and other neighboring areas in Iowa. Give us a call at (515) 289-2020 to schedule our lawn fertilization service today!