It is used to give plants the main nutrients they need.

Because it contains all three macronutrients, it works for most plants, but there are limitations.

Key Takeaways

What Is in 10-10-10 Fertilizer?

10-10-10 fertilizer in front of strawberry plants

The Spruce / Jason Donnelly

Other micronutrients and ingredients added can include iron for deep greening.

Read the product label or product sheet for details on the sources of the plant nutrients.

Liquid vs. Granular 10-10-10 Fertilizer

A 10-10-10 fertilizer is available as liquid or granules.

Back of 10-10-10 fertilizer label showing NPK breakdown

The Spruce / Jason Donnelly

Both forms have their pros and cons.

Liquid 10-10-10 Fertilizer

Granular 10-10-10 Fertilizer

Which Plants Benefit from 10-10-10 Fertilizer?

It does not have to be done yearly; every two to three years is sufficient.

Liquid and granular 10-10-10 fertilizer bags next to each other

The Spruce / Jason Donnelly

It might be that 10-10-10 fertilizer is not the best option for your plants.

Spread the fertilizer evenly between the two circles and confirm the fertilizer does not hit the trunk.

Water the fertilizer deeply into the soil.

Hand applying 10-10-10 fertilizer to the base of a plant

The Spruce / Jason Donnelly

For all other plants, follow the label directions.

Always apply the fertilizer in a circle away from the trunk or stem of the plant to prevent burning.

Unlike lawns and ornamentals, many vegetables are heavy feeders so you dont have to worry about overfertilization.

Conducting a soil test to determine what nutrients are lacking

The Spruce / Jason Donnelly

Always follow the label instructions for amounts and frequency.

Water after applying the fertilizer.

Best Fertilizing Tips

Use 10-10-10 as a lawn starter fertilizer.

However, a fertilizer higher in nitrogen is preferred for a new lawn.

A 10-10-10 fertilizer can be slow-release depending on whether you use a liquid or granules.

Granular products are usually slow-release fertilizers while liquid 10-10-10 has a quicker effect.

Look up theplant profile of a specific plant.

The fertilizer section usually tells you about specific nutrient needs.

Colorado State University Extension.