How to Remove Fertilizer Rust Stains From Concrete

As you’re working hard to improve the curb appeal of your home, did your efforts cause more work elsewhere? Many people find this to be the case after giving their lawn a healthy boost with a granular fertilizer, which is a fertilizer that comes in pellet form you can spread across your lawn. While the right one can give your grass the macro- and micro-nutrients it needs to thrive, you might see the impacts of application elsewhere and not always in a good way. Learn if granular fertilizer leaves stains on hard surfaces.

Does Granular Fertilizer Leave Stains on Hard Surfaces?

Yes, unfortunately, granular fertilizer can leave stains on hard surfaces like concrete. It provides the macronutrients nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, but it’s one of the still-essential micronutrients that can cause the staining: iron. Iron helps plants make chlorophyll, which is what causes grass to develop that vibrant green color and helps absorb sunlight so plants can have enough food and energy to stay alive during the trying summer months.

If you think back to science class, you probably learned about how iron can cause rust when exposed to water. These orange granular fertilizer stains you might find a day or two after fertilizing are essentially rust stains caused by the iron content.

How to Remove Fertilizer Rust Stains From Concrete

Unfortunately, these stains won’t go away on their own. There are two proven methods you can use to get rid of them for good:

1. Water and Vinegar. Simply combine equal amounts of water and vinegar in a container. Either spray or pour it onto the stained concrete. Because vinegar is acidic, it will help to break down the stain. You will need to help along the process by scrubbing the stains. Then, simply use a hose to spray water across the concrete to rinse it off. Check back after the surface dries to see if you need to repeat the cleaning process.
2. Concrete Rust Remover. Sometimes, the water and vinegar method doesn’t do a thorough enough job of removing the stain. You can also find a concrete rust remover at your local home improvement store. This chemical mix has potentially harmful ingredients, so make sure you follow the directions carefully to keep yourself and your family safe.

How to Prevent Granular Fertilizer from Staining Concrete

Fortunately, it’s easy to prevent granular fertilizer stains from blemishing your concrete in the first place. If you get any fertilizer on your driveway or walkway while spreading it, simply sweep it away once you’re finished before any water or moisture can touch the granules.

If you want to make your life even easier, hire a professional to do the fertilizing for you like Green Lawn Fertilizing. Our Green Lawn Program provides everything your lawn needs to be healthy, including fertilizer applications. Call us today at 855-469-0692 to learn more.