Is it necessary to buy a new bag of fertilizer each spring for garden plants even though last year’s pack has still enough to suffice? At some point, most gardeners might start wondering if fertilizer really goes bad. A bunch of techniques can come in handy when it comes to the effective storage of fertilizer so that it stays viable for multiple seasons.
An expiration date is not typically listed on the package of fertilizer. So does fertilizer go bad? Fertilizer will not go bad as long as it’s stored properly.
At the end of the summer, when it seems like gardening chores are over, be sure to pay attention to storing leftover fertilizer. There are also some potential issues to be aware of when planning on using the same fertilizer next spring.
The makeup of different types of fertilizers plays a role in determining whether it can be used for multiple seasons, and how long it will stay viable. Let’s take a look at how the different varieties compare according to their shelf life:
| Fertilizer variety | Pure dry fertilizer | Weed and feeds fertilizer | Liquid organic fertilizer | Liquid mineral fertilizer |
| Shelf life | Indefinite shelf life | Herbicides included in the composition shorten its shelf life to four years | Varies from brand to brand, will be mentioned on the package. | For as long as ten years, shake the bottle before use since minerals settle at the bottom. |
So why go through storing leftover fertilizer and use it next spring when brand new packages are available to purchase at the store?
It saves money
This is the most obvious reason. Instead of spending money buying new plant feed every growing season, the better option is to make use of what was already saved from last season.
Reduces fertilizer waste
By using up old fertilizer instead of throwing it away, gardeners do themselves and the environment a favor. Organic fertilizers are harmless to the environment, but chemical fertilizers include substances that aren’t easy on the environment. Using the leftovers from previous seasons will reduce a good deal of negative impacts on the environment.
Note: even if gardeners don’t plan on using the leftover fertilizer the next season, they should consider giving it away instead of throwing it out. If the fertilizer goes bad because of improper storage or if there’s any other reason to discard it, follow the instructions on the package to dispose of it properly. When in doubt, simply take it to a nearby hazardous waste site, and they’ll know what to do.
Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.
Genesis 2:24
Unless fertilizer has herbicides and pesticides included in them, they are made up of natural nutrients and can be stored and used season after season. When planning on reusing it, however, effective storage is the key. Here are some useful tips to follow to ensure its longevity:
1. Choose a suitable location
- Choose a cool, dry spot for storing unused fertilizer for the next season. The temperature shouldn’t exceed 30 degrees as some varieties are sensitive to high temperatures.
- An enclosed space, such as the garage, that’s protected from direct sunlight and weather extremities will work perfectly for storing fertilizer leftovers.
- Make sure there are no pesticides or other chemicals next to it.
- Keep the surroundings free of dust and dirt.
- Make sure rainwater or moisture doesn’t reach it, otherwise it will make the fertilizer lumpy and lower it’s spreading capabilities.
2. Container to store it in
- The best container to store fertilizer is the one it came in – unless it’s damaged. This will help gardeners remember the product type, its use, and other essentials as long as the label is still readable.
- If the original packaging is damaged, transfer it to a different container and copy all the useful information from the original packaging to the new one to help use it properly.
- Store the container upright.
- Preferably, place it over a shelf so that the container isn’t damaged in case any moisture is present.
3. Seal it
- Open a new fertilizer package using scissors or a utility knife to prevent the packaging from damage.
- Seal partially used fertilizer packages properly to protect it from dust and moisture. After closing the original container, place it in a larger container or a plastic bag, and seal it tightly.
4. Prevent liquid fertilizer from freezing
Liquid fertilizers can easily freeze if the temperature goes too low in winters. Place it somewhere warmer where the temperature is maintained above the freezing point of the liquid.
5. Store away from children and pets
Many varieties of fertilizers are toxic. Store it somewhere safe if children or pets are in the house. Placing it in a metal can inside your garage can keep it out of reach of children and pets.
Follow these tips, and there’s no reason the fertilizer shouldn’t be in top shape when the package is opened next season.
Thinking about storing compost as well? Check out this article we wrote – Can Compost Go Bad? 9 Tips for Storing Compost to learn some useful tips on effective compost storage.
You’ve already seen how these fertilizer varieties compare as far as the shelf life is concerned. Let’s see some of the other features and establish whether one is better than the other.
Accessibility to the roots
The nutrients, such as phosphorus that aren’t very mobile are not easily accessible to the plant roots in granular form. In the case of liquid fertilizers, the nutrients are absorbed into the soil and easily accessible to the roots.
Uniformity
The nutritional composition is identical throughout the liquid fertilizer. Dry fertilizer isn’t uniform for every granule since each granule is a separate nutrient component.
Price
Dry fertilizers are usually cheaper as compared to liquid fertilizers. Together with the fertilizer’s price, the handling equipment for liquid fertilizer also adds to the overall fertilizing cost.
Starter application
Liquid fertilizer is usually preferred for starter applications because of their uniform consistencies. Granular fertilizers can be too “hot” for the initial stages of seed development; roots move further away from points with higher concentrations of nitrogen and potassium.
Slow-release
Slow-release options are available for dry fertilizers only. Many gardeners prefer slow-release fertilizers for the various benefits of nourishing the soil over the course of time.
Sedimentation
Sedimentation is a problem associated with liquid fertilizers, especially if they have been stored through the winters. Minerals will settle at the bottom of the container while the fertilizer is sitting unused. When using it, give the container a hard shake to mix everything uniformly before applying it to plants. This problem isn’t a concern if using dry fertilizer.
For those who are unsure as to how to start a garden and when to apply fertilizer, check out our amazing step-by-step guide – How to Start a No-Till Garden: A Complete Step-By-Step Guide, it will walk through the entire process.
If the partially-used bag of fertilizer from last spring ends up being caked together in chunks, no need to panic. It must have absorbed moisture due to improper storage, but the problem isn’t a big one. Just break it up using hands or hammer it into granules and it will be as good as new. Old, clumpy fertilizer is ready for use. Spray it out on vegetables or flower garden as normal.
Although clumping of dry fertilizer granules does not tamper with its effectiveness, it can be avoided if the fertilizer bag is sealed properly. Moisture in the air clumps the granules together. As long as air isn’t allowed to reach it, it will be grainy and fresh season after season.
See how easy it is to store the surplus fertilizer through the winters and use it again next season? The effectiveness of most fertilizers isn’t affected even after being stored for years. The money saved in buying fertilizer the coming season can go into buying some new flower seeds. Why not save money in buying plant feed and adorn the garden instead? Think about it!
Check out Our Favorite Products page to find everything you might need to help make your garden a success!
References
https://homeguides.sfgate.com/fertilizer-expire-86120.html
http://ipm.ucanr.edu/QT/gardenchemicalscard.html
https://www.yara.us/crop-nutrition/fertilizer-handling-and-safety/fertilizer-storage/
http://bayharbormgmt.com/2016/01/11/how-to-store-fertilizer-in-your-garage-safely/
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/pros_and_cons_of_granular_and_liquid_fertilizers
FAQs
Can I use expired fertilizer? ›
You don't want to use a fertilizer that is past its expiry date. While it might be tempting to use it because you don't want to waste it, you shouldn't. You risk damaging your lawn or garden because of the altered potency of the fertilizer once it has expired.
How long does fertilizer last in the bag? ›Organic granular fertilizer can last for 1 to 5 years or more. Although some cooperative extensions warn that organic granular fertilizers' shelf life is only 5 years, that depends on the ingredients included in a given formula.
What is the best way to store fertilizer? ›An open bag of fertilizer is going to absorb any moisture from the air. It's also going to stink. Putting your bag of fertilizer in a metal trashcan is the best storage you could have because: It's waterproof.
Does Miracle-Gro go out of date? ›The miracle grow potting soil variant comes with a shelf life of about five years, it is important to know that it contains sphagnum moss, ammonium nitrate, perlite, and compost and can go bad if compromised. Therefore, store them right and use them as per its instructions.
Can I use old fertilizer on my lawn? ›Fertilizer doesn't expire, but we recommend keeping it dry and in an airtight container, and using it up within a year to get the best results. The longer the fertilizer sits unused, the more likely it is to become damp and clumpy, which could make it hard to spread.
How do you store an open bag of fertilizer? ›Granular products absorb moisture from the air, causing them to cake up like cement. An excellent way to store opened bags of lawn or garden fertilizers is to place the bags in large containers, such as 5 gallon buckets, and cover with tight-sealing lids.
How do you store fertilizer for the winter? ›Store granular fertilizers in a dry location. Granular products absorb moisture from the air, causing them to cake like cement. An excellent way to store opened bags of lawn and garden fertilizers is to place the bags in large containers, such as five-gallon buckets, and cover with tight-sealing lids.
What can you do with leftover fertilizer? ›Dry, granular fertilizers that do not contain pesticides or herbicides: put in the garbage. Dry, granular fertilizers that do NOT contain pesticides or herbicides may be put in the garbage.
How do you store outdoor fertilizer? ›All fertilizer stored outside should be protected from the elements by covering with a tarpaulin. Anchor the tarp well around the product. Splice should overlap at least 30 cm. Keep the ground and driveways free of fertilizer spills.
Is it safe to store fertilizer in garage? ›Some good storage spots include your garage or a shed. Garage: If you choose to store fertilizer in your garage, again make sure that it's out of reach. Keep it on a high shelf that kids cannot reach, or even better a cabinet that can be locked.
How do you store fertilizer in bulk? ›
Store piles of dry bulk fertilizer on an impermeable surface under cover or in a building. Treat dry fertilizer impregnated with a pesticide as a pesticide. Store under cover or protected from rain.
When should I stop using Miracle-Gro? ›If you are using the right amount of miracle gro, there should be more flowers than usual. If your plants' foliage is growing more than usual that the plants stop looking beautiful, it's the time to stop using more miracle gro.
What can you use instead of Miracle-Gro? ›- Joyful Dirt Premium Organic Plant Food and Fertilizer. ...
- AgroThrive All Purpose Organic Liquid Fertilizer. ...
- Jobe's Organics Flower & Rose Granular Fertilizer. ...
- Aquatic Arts Indoor Plant Food. ...
- Preen Plant Food Garden Weed Preventer.
According to Scott's Miracle-Gro company (makers of Miracle-Gro Tomatoes, granular fertilizer stays potent indefinitely if kept dry. Liquid fertilizer is another matter ... after opening, it can lose potency within 6-10 years.
Does unopened fertilizer go bad? ›The general answer is no, fertilizer does not go bad if it is properly stored. Fertilizer is made up of a variety of natural minerals and elements that do not break down over time allowing you to store your unused fertilizer from year to year.
Should you water after fertilizing? ›If your lawn gets liquid fertilizer, wait until it dries before watering, about 2-4 hours. If it's granular fertilizer, water right away. One exception: if you also got spot weed treatments at the same time, wait for that to dry before watering, or the water will wash off the weed killer before it can work.
Can I mow and fertilize on the same day? ›Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium take time to absorb into your soil. Doing anything too drastic on your lawn, such as cutting your grass, will disrupt this process. We always suggest to our clients that they wait 24 to 48 hours before mowing their lawn after fertilization.
How long does granular fertilizer last in soil? ›Granular fertilizers tend to be slow-release and can last anywhere from two to five months. The packaging should tell you how often the nitrogen fertilizer will last and when to reapply it.
How long can you store urea fertilizer? ›Storage period of 3 to 6 months is suggested for urea fertilizers. Storage conditions (temperature, humidity etc) are specified. Storage under high humidity (more than 80%) is reported to cause higher moisture content of urea fertilizers than recommended. This may also result in caking.
Does granular fertilizer go bad if frozen? ›Freezing will most definitely ruin the composition and solubility of the mixture. If an organic product does become active in the bottle and begins off-gassing or ballooning, it doesn't directly mean that it has gone bad in the sense that it cannot be used.
Is it safe to store fertilizer in the basement? ›
Moreover, it's also important to keep it away from areas that can be affected by excess humidity. The basement or the attic can be a good place for it, although the attic might be a little too warm during hot summer days. Get the best fertilizer at http://www.therichlawncompany.com/products/fertilizers/.
Can you leave fertilizer outside? ›Store the Trash Can Out of Direct Sunlight
You want to keep the fertilizer in a cool location if possible, and if this is impossible, at least in a location where the heat is minimized by not being in direct sunlight. Also be sure to keep the can away from any heat source such as a gas furnace or stove.
To safely dispose of your old Miracle-Gro plant food, contact your local solid waste company to inquire about the collection of chemical waste products.
Is lawn fertilizer considered a hazardous material? ›The chemicals in lawn and liquid fertilizer are definitely helpful for grass, but they are considered hazardous waste. Obviously, the trashcan isn't the best place for old fertilizer. The primary ingredients are nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Is fertilizer considered a hazardous material? ›Is Fertilizer Considered a Hazardous Material? The short answer is: yes, some fertilizers are considered hazardous materials, but not all of them. Certain fertilizers contain ingredients, like ammonium nitrate or sulfur, that makes them inherently dangerous.
Can I store fertilizer in my house? ›Provide adequate road access for deliveries and use, and in making the storage area secure, also make it accessible, to allow getting fertilizers and other chemicals out in a hurry. Never store fertilizers inside a wellhouse or a facility containing an abandoned well.
Is it safe to store fertilizer in the house? ›Indoor storage
The floor should have a level, dry and even surface, free from pot-holes. Limit the height of fertilizer stacks. High stacks of bagged fertilizer can be unstable and may collapse. Store at least 1 meter away from building eaves and beams and, in the case of bagged fertilizer, also from walls.
Ammonia smell in gardens and compost heaps is an indicator of inadequate oxygen for microbial activity. Organic compounds cannot compost without adequate oxygen, but the fix is a simple one by introducing more oxygen to the soil.
How do you store chemical fertilizers? ›Store fertilizers in dry and cool places, away from direct UV rays exposure. Keep them away from heat and with a temperature between 5 and 30°C. Closed, well-ventilated, tidy, secure, and free-of-dust room. Keep fertilizers well separated from other chemical substances and flammable materials.
How do you store nitrogen fertilizer? ›“First off,” Dowbenko explains, “Make sure you put cool, dry fertilizer in a cool, dry bin.” If warm fertilizer is put in a cool bin, it creates moisture, which lowers the quality of the fertilizer and can make it hard to use in the spring.” Moisture uptake is a serious challenge when it comes to storing N.
Can you store lawn fertilizer over the winter? ›
The answer is generally yes. Lawn fertilizer is a combination of the minerals nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. These minerals don't break down over time, so you can store lawn fertilizer from year to year without concern that it will lost its effectiveness.
How long does dry fertilizer last? ›Depending on the type, fertilizer can last for years in storage. Liquid fertilizers can last upwards of 10 years, and granular fertilizer has no finite expiration date.
How long does nitrogen fertilizer last? ›Liquid fertilizers that replenish nitrogen can last anywhere from two to six weeks. Granular fertilizers tend to be slow-release and can last anywhere from two to five months. The packaging should tell you how often the nitrogen fertilizer will last and when to reapply it.
What can you do with leftover fertilizer? ›Dry, granular fertilizers that do not contain pesticides or herbicides: put in the garbage. Dry, granular fertilizers that do NOT contain pesticides or herbicides may be put in the garbage.
Does DAP fertilizer expire? ›There is no expiry date of chemical fertilizers. However, in case of imported Fertilizers, the container (bag) has. indication regarding month and year of Manufacture/import.
Will heavy rain wash away fertilizer? ›Will heavy rain wash away fertilizer? Yes, heavy and prolonged rain can wash away recently applied fertilizer.
Does fertilizer need to be watered in? ›All fertilizers should be watered-in. This ensures that the product will be washed into the soil and become available to the grass through the roots. It's important to water-in with enough water—but not too much.
What time of day should I fertilize my plants? ›The best time to use pesticides or fertilizer is in the evening or early morning until 8 am. Both the time are perfect because the sun is not working during this time frame. It's the same phenomenon as above. The plants absorb the applied liquid fertilizer or pesticide best in the early morning.
How do I make my grass dark green? ›The number one way to increase the green color in your lawn is with Nitrogen. Nitrogen is one of the big three macronutrients needed in the greatest quantities for healthy turf. It promotes top growth in the lawn by pushing the production of chlorophyll in the plant.
How long does Miracle Gro fertilizer last? ›According to the Miracle-Gro representative that I spoke with, the liquid plant food is best used within three years after being purchased if stored properly. It is still viable for up to eight years.
How do I dispose of old Miracle Gro? ›
To safely dispose of your old Miracle-Gro plant food, contact your local solid waste company to inquire about the collection of chemical waste products.
Is lawn fertilizer considered a hazardous material? ›The chemicals in lawn and liquid fertilizer are definitely helpful for grass, but they are considered hazardous waste. Obviously, the trashcan isn't the best place for old fertilizer. The primary ingredients are nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Is fertilizer considered a hazardous material? ›Is Fertilizer Considered a Hazardous Material? The short answer is: yes, some fertilizers are considered hazardous materials, but not all of them. Certain fertilizers contain ingredients, like ammonium nitrate or sulfur, that makes them inherently dangerous.
Why are fertilizer prices so high 2022? ›Fertilizer prices have risen nearly 30% since the start of 2022, following last year's 80% surge. Soaring prices are driven by a confluence of factors, including surging input costs, supply disruptions caused by sanctions (Belarus and Russia), and export restrictions (China).
What is the difference between urea and DAP? ›Urea contains 46% nitrogen, and its share of nitrogen consumption is increasing. The majority of new and pipeline nitrogen capacity in the world is in the form of urea. Diammonium phosphate (DAP) contains 46% phosphate (measured in P2O5) and 18% nitrogen.
Why does my fertilizer smell like ammonia? ›Ammonia smell in gardens and compost heaps is an indicator of inadequate oxygen for microbial activity. Organic compounds cannot compost without adequate oxygen, but the fix is a simple one by introducing more oxygen to the soil.