How Much Does Lime & Fertilizer Cost in the United States?

Lime and fertilizer costs can fluctuate significantly based on location, supplier, and the type of product purchased. Let's break down the costs associated with these essential lawn care products. Agricultural lime typically ranges from $5.00 to $16.45 per ton, with wet ag lime being slightly less expensive than bulk options. Pelleted lime tends to be around $7.25 to $14.00 per ton, while pulverized lime can be $6.25 to $22.00 per ton. The cost per 50lb bag can vary greatly, ranging from around $5.95 to $22.00. Fertilizer prices are influenced by the type and formulation. Dry granular fertilizer, like the 'Fast Acting Lime Plus AST Dry Lawn Fertilizer', sells for approximately $4.97 for a 30lb bag (pre-discount). Liquid fertilizers average around $826 per ton, although prices have recently risen to over $800 per ton, particularly for urea and UAN32. Single-application fertilizer bags typically cost between $10 and $30 depending on the brand and strength.

Here's a cost comparison table:

Labor Costs for application can add significantly to the overall expense. Applying lime manually is typically done for smaller lawns, costing around $75-$150 per acre. Professional lawn care services charging $40-$80 per application for smaller lawns. For larger properties, costs can escalate to $100-$250 per acre or more.

Key Cost Factors:

• Lime Type: Agricultural lime is cheaper than pelletized or pulverized.
• Quantity Needed: The amount of lime and fertilizer required depends on soil pH and lawn size.
• Application Method: DIY application is cheaper than hiring a professional.
• Fertilizer Type: Liquid fertilizers are generally more expensive than granular fertilizers.
• Location: Prices vary by region due to transportation and supply costs.

Tips for Hiring:

1. Get multiple quotes from different lawn care services.
2. Ask about their experience and equipment.
3. Clarify what's included in the price (e.g., spreader rental, disposal fees).