LESCO Starter Fertilizer 18-24-12 with NOS is a specialized nutrient blend designed to kickstart the growth of newly planted seeds. This premium fertilizer contains a carefully balanced mix of Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K), essential nutrients crucial for strong root development and robust seedling growth.
What is the Nitrogen Optimization System (NOS)?
LESCO NOS (Nitrogen Optimization System) is an advanced nitrogen source that prevents nitrogen loss from denitrification and leaching through exclusive DCD (dicyandiamide)-infused stabilized nitrogen technology. DCD, a nitrification inhibitor, is fully infused into the urea while in molten phase prior to the granulation process. In the soil, this homogeneous infusion of nitrogen stabilizer slows the nitrogen conversion from ammonium to nitrate. Since ammonium is positively charged and soil is negatively charged, this compound bonds to soil longer and releases nutrients at a rate that matches the uptake of plants. By keeping nitrogen in the ammonium state longer, it reduces the potential for nitrate to be lost through leaching and denitrification.
It provides increased nutrient uptake, maximizes nitrogen efficiency, and improves greening longevity. By reducing nitrogen loss for up to 72 days, NOS delivers a 60% increase in nitrogen uptake by the turf. NOS fertilizer delivers consistent, lasting performance compared to all other stabilized nitrogen products. NOS nitrogen stabilization system is fully incorporated to ensure that every dollar you invest in nutrition is maximized.
Key Benefits for New Lawns
- Enhanced Seed Germination: Lesco Starter Fertilizer is your secret weapon for a faster and more robust seed germination process. Watch as your grass sprouts quicker and more vigorously, turning your lawn into a lush paradise.
- Extended Nutrient Availability: Thanks to the Nitrogen Optimization System (NOS), the nitrogen in this fertilizer is released gradually, ensuring your lawn receives a consistent supply of nutrients over time.
- Strong Root Development: The 18-24-12 ratio is tailored for seeding and early root development, ensuring robust turf establishment. High phosphorus content promotes the formation of a strong root system, so turf can more easily find water and nutrients in soil.
- Formulated to support new sod or seed and is safe for new seedlings, making it perfect for seeding and sodding applications.
Coverage and Application
50 pounds of LESCO 18-24-12 Fertilizer covers approximately 12,000 sq ft at the application rate of one pound of phosphate (4.2 pounds of fertilizer) per 1,000 sq ft. Apply 1 lb of phosphate (4.2 lbs fertilizer) per 1,000 sq ft for new seed establishment. For best results, apply evenly and incorporate into the top 1-2 inches soil before planting. Water thoroughly after application.
Application is easy! Simply spread the fertilizer evenly over your lawn using a spreader, following the recommended application rate on the package. Water thoroughly after application for best results. Apply during actively growing periods, especially as a starter for new turf or soil phosphorus deficiency; water in immediately; avoid mowing to minimize pickup.
When to Apply
Spring and fall are the ideal times for application. Apply in early spring and early fall depending on the growing season. Spring applications promote strong growth, while fall applications prepare your lawn for winter dormancy.
Suitable for Multiple Regions
Ideal for use in Southern, Mid-South, Midwest, and Northeast regions, ensuring broad applicability. Suitable for multiple climate regions.
Compatible Grass Types
Ideal for turf establishment—new lawns, overseed, athletic fields, golf tees/fairways during establishment phase. Safe for use on Annual Ryegrass, Bahiagrass, Bentgrass, Bermudagrass, Buffalograss, Carpetgrass, Centipedegrass, Chewings Fescue, Colonial Bentgrass, Fine Fescue, Hard Fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass, Kikuyu Grass, Perennial Ryegrass, Red Fescue, St. Augustinegrass, Tall Fescue, and Zoysiagrass.
Product Specifications
- Analysis: 18-24-12 (18% Nitrogen, 24% Phosphate, 12% Potash)
- Container Size: 50 lb bag
- Coverage Area: 12,000 sq ft
- Contains 4.50% Urea Nitrogen Stabilized with Dicyandiamide
- 8.61% Urea Nitrogen, 9.39% Ammoniacal Nitrogen
- Form: Granules
- Fertilizer Type: Synthetic
About LESCO
The LESCO story began in 1962, when James Fitzgibbon and Robert Burkhardt founded Lakeshore Equipment & Supply Company in Cleveland, Ohio. Starting with only five employees, they recruited former golf course superintendents that had a deep understanding of turf care—who delivered a level of expertise that other distributors couldn’t match. In 1974 the company hit a major milestone by formulating its first proprietary fertilizer at a facility in Wellington, Ohio. The company’s brand name later became synonymous with dozens of high quality, high performance fertilizer blends. In 1978, the company opened the first sulfur coated urea plants in the United States in Martins Ferry, Ohio. LESCO continues to raise the bar for professional turf care with decades of turf innovation and is trusted by pros across sports fields, golf courses, and premium landscapes.
What Real Users Are Saying
Thomas Clements from Zone 5 shared: “We have a new home in Zone 5. The lawn area was seeded last early fall, so it was sparse. After application of Lesco 18-24-12 and a couple of rainy days it is coming around nicely. I do not expect it to look great this year but it has a great start.”
Bruno Olvera reported: “Quick delivery and used the fertilizer on 3/30. Looking forward to seeing the results in a week or two. Fertilizer was shipped unharmed…great job and thank you.”
Kevin Smith noted: “Grass is already starting to germinate after 9 days.”
Important Usage Notes
LESCO Starter Fertilizer 18-24-12 with NOS Technology is an excellent choice for homeowners and professionals who want to promote healthy growth of lawns at the time of seeding. Its balanced formulation of essential nutrients, combined with the unique benefits of Nitrogen Optimization System (NOS), helps to ensure that newly planted grass seeds receive the nourishment they need to establish strong roots and develop into lush, green lawns.
I would only use a starter fertilizer once. After the lawn is established you can get a soil test to find out exactly what type of fertilizer you would need after that. Starter fertilizer might not contain all the required nutrients for continued growth and good health. It won’t hurt the grass but might lack the needed nutrients that a well-balanced fertilizer for continued lawn maintenance contains.
Safety Information
Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with skin and eyes. If ingested, seek medical help immediately.
