Brunnings’ sulphate trick makes beginners feel like lawn-care legends overnight—without breaking a sweat.

September 3, 2025

Waking up your lawn in winter? This South Aussie fertiliser shortcut can feel like cheating.

How sulphate of ammonia gives your garden the green-light

One weekend it looked scruffy, patchy, and downright sad. The next? Lush, vibrant green like something out of a glossy garden mag. All thanks to a handful of humble sulphate of ammonia.

This fast-acting fertiliser is a game-changer for local lawns and leafy plants needing a quick dose of nitrogen. In less than a week, you’ll see your garden turn from dull to dazzling. No mystic moon planting or complicated feeding schedules required.

“I thought I’d just give it a sprinkle. Four days later—bam! Green as envy. I actually got compliments on my front lawn, which has never happened before.” – Local customer

What is sulphate of ammonia, anyway?

Sulphate of ammonia is a nitrogen-rich fertiliser that’s been around for donkey’s years. It’s not trendy. It’s not complicated. But it works. Especially for South Australian soils, which often miss out on enough nitrogen to keep leafy greens and lawns thriving.

Here’s the good news: nitrogen is what plants use to grow stems, leaves, and that lush green top growth. If your garden’s looking pale, tired, or like it’s had one too many scorching summer days, think of S.O.A (as the old-timers call it) as a shot of espresso for your plants.

Signs your garden might need it

Yellowing leaves, especially on veggies or citrus
Grass that’s growing slowly or has bare patches
Leafy greens (like spinach or silverbeet) that look stunted or pale
Winter lawns that need a pre-spring boost

It’s not magic – but it feels close. Sprinkle this fine white powder on early morning before a soak or a gentle water-in, and you’ll give your garden a powerful pick-me-up. But be mindful – this stuff doesn’t muck around. More isn’t better. Always follow the label, and if in doubt, pop into your local garden centre and ask.

Old school? Yes. Still brilliant? Absolutely.

Gardeners have been using sulphate of ammonia for generations. The only thing that’s changed is how quickly beginners are catching on – because here’s the truth:

You don’t need years of gardening knowledge to look like you know what you’re doing. You just need the right help, and clever, proven tools.

Today’s fast-moving garden hacks and glossy Pinterest pics often forget to mention the basics. Good soil. A decent hose. And yes, the right fert at the right time. That’s where sulphate of ammonia earns its spot.

How to use sulphate of ammonia safely

If you’re giving it a try, here’s the simple rundown:

Pick your spots: Use it on established lawns, leafy greens, or plants with a clear nitrogen need. Avoid sensitive or flowering plants unless advised.
Apply carefully: Light sprinkle across soil (not directly onto leaves), then water it in well.
Don’t overdo it: A little goes a long way. Overuse can burn roots or upset soil balance.

And here’s a little local tip: applying in the cooler early morning or just before a light rain works wonders and reduces the impact on soil microbes.

Before and after: the satisfaction is real

We’ve seen first-timers who swore they’d never get the hang of lawn care walk out grinning like Cheshire cats, stunned at how one feed flipped the script. Think dry, straw-like patches to lush green in under a week. One neighbour said he thought they’d hired a turf team. Nope. Just a ten-minute job and the right bottle.

If you’ve got a “meh” backyard that’s quietly judging you, this plant pick-me-up is worth a go. Proof that sometimes, the quickest wins come from the simplest steps.