Guaranteed Analysis
Nutrient Breakdown
N · Nitrogen0%
N/A — Contains no nitrogen. Pair with a nitrogen source like 46-0-0 Urea or 21-0-0 Ammonium Sulfate if nitrogen is also needed
P · Phosphorus0%
N/A — Contains no phosphorus. Use alongside 0-46-0 Triple Phosphate if phosphorus levels are low
K · Potassium60%
Delivers a concentrated 60% potassium (K₂O) that strengthens plant cell walls, improves drought and disease resistance, enhances root growth, regulates water uptake, and boosts photosynthesis for vigorous overall plant health
Derived from: Potassium Chloride (KCl), also known as Muriate of Potash (MOP)
Overview
What It Is
Muriate of Potash (MOP) is the most widely used potassium fertilizer in the world, accounting for approximately 95% of all potash fertilizer production. The term 'muriate' is an older chemical term meaning 'chloride,' so muriate of potash is simply potassium chloride (KCl). It is mined from underground deposits of ancient evaporated sea beds and processed into the familiar pink, red, or white granules.
The 0-0-60 analysis means the product contains 0% nitrogen, 0% phosphorus, and 60% potassium oxide (K₂O). This makes it the most concentrated and cost-effective source of potassium among common fertilizers—roughly 40-50% less expensive per unit of K₂O than sulfate of potash (0-0-50).
Potassium functions differently from nitrogen and phosphorus in plants. Rather than becoming part of plant structures, potassium acts as a regulator and activator. It controls the opening and closing of stomata (leaf pores) to manage water loss, activates enzymes that drive photosynthesis and protein synthesis, and helps transport sugars from leaves to roots and fruits. Plants with adequate potassium are visibly more robust—thicker stems, deeper green color, better cold tolerance, and higher quality produce.
Crop Fit
Best For
PotatoesCarrotsOnionsTulipsLiliesTomatoesRoot VegetablesFruit Trees
Root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions are heavy potassium feeders because potassium drives the transport of sugars to storage organs underground. Tulips, lilies, and other flowering bulbs benefit greatly from potassium for strong stem formation and vibrant blooms. Tomatoes require potassium for fruit quality, flavor development, and disease resistance. Fruit trees need potassium for fruit set, size, and winter hardiness. Note: Avoid using MOP on chloride-sensitive crops like tobacco, strawberries, and some citrus varieties—use sulfate of potash instead.
Application Rates
How Much to Use
| Garden & beds | 0.5 lbs per 100 sq ft, worked into the soil and watered thoroughly |
|---|
| Lawn | 3-5 lbs per 1,000 sq ft; apply based on soil test results to avoid salt burn |
|---|
| Trees & shrubs | 0.25-0.5 cups per inch of trunk diameter, applied around the drip line and watered in |
|---|
| Containers | 0.5 teaspoon per gallon of soil, mixed into the potting medium before planting |
|---|
| Frequency | 1-2 times per year based on soil test results. Apply in spring before planting and optionally in early fall for perennials. |
|---|
Step by Step
How to Apply
1Soil Test
Get a soil test to confirm potassium deficiency before applying. Without testing, you risk over-application which can cause salt burn and nutrient lockout.
2Calculate Rate
Calculate the amount needed based on your area. Standard rate is 0.5 lbs per 100 sq ft for gardens. Adjust based on soil test recommendations.
3Broadcast
Broadcast evenly over the soil surface using a calibrated spreader or by hand. Ensure uniform coverage to avoid hot spots.
4Incorporate
Work the granules into the top 4–6 inches of soil using a rake, tiller, or spade to place potassium in the root zone.
5Water In
Water thoroughly after application to dissolve granules and carry potassium into the root zone. Aim for at least 0.25 inches of irrigation.
6Avoid Contact
Do not apply directly to plant roots, stems, or foliage. Muriate of potash contains chloride which can burn tender plant tissue.
7Reapply
Reapply based on soil test results, typically once or twice per year. Heavy-feeding crops or sandy soils may need more frequent applications.
Start with a soil test—potassium applications should always be based on confirmed need rather than guessing. For garden beds, broadcast 0.5 lbs per 100 sq ft evenly over the soil and incorporate into the top 4-6 inches with a rake or tiller. For row crops, apply 0.5 lbs per 100 linear feet of row, banded 2-3 inches to the side and below the seed at planting. For established plantings, top-dress around the plant base but keep granules away from direct root contact. Water thoroughly after every application—potassium chloride has a high salt index (116) and can cause root burn if left concentrated near plant tissue. For commercial agricultural use, apply 100-200 lbs per acre based on soil test recommendations, either broadcast and incorporated before planting or banded at planting. Avoid foliar application—the high chloride content and salt index make MOP unsuitable for spraying on plant leaves.
Handling & Timing
Safety & Season
Safety & Storage
Wear gloves when handling to avoid skin irritation from the salt content. Avoid contact with eyes. Store in a cool, dry place in a sealed container to prevent moisture absorption and clumping. Keep away from water sources, ponds, and storm drains. Do not apply directly to plant roots or foliage to avoid salt burn. Safe around pets and children once watered into the soil.
Seasonal Notes
Spring: Apply before planting gardens and when soil has thawed for best incorporation. Ideal time for root vegetables, flowers, and garden prep. Summer: Side-dress heavy-feeding crops mid-season if soil tests warrant additional potassium. Fall: Apply to perennial beds, fruit trees, and lawns to boost winter hardiness and cold tolerance. Winter: Do not apply to frozen ground or dormant plants.
In Context
How It Compares
Muriate of potash (0-0-60) is the most economical potassium source at roughly 40-50% less cost per unit of K₂O than sulfate of potash (0-0-50). However, MOP contains chloride which can be harmful to chloride-sensitive crops like tobacco, strawberries, and some citrus. Sulfate of potash provides 50% K₂O plus 17% sulfur without chloride, making it the preferred choice for sensitive crops and saline soils. Compared to greensand (0-0-3), MOP delivers 20 times more potassium per pound and acts immediately rather than over months or years.
Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 0-0-60 fertilizer?
0-0-60 fertilizer is muriate of potash (MOP), a concentrated source of potassium containing 60% potash (K₂O) with zero nitrogen and zero phosphorus. It is one of the most widely used potassium fertilizers in agriculture and home gardening. Potassium strengthens plant cell walls, improves drought and disease resistance, and enhances root development. Because it contains no nitrogen or phosphorus, 0-0-60 is ideal for soils that already have adequate levels of those nutrients but are deficient in potassium. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Growth 0-0-60 Fertilizer delivers a powerful, targeted dose of potassium for lawns, gardens, and crops.
What is the name of 0-0-60 fertilizer?
The common name for 0-0-60 fertilizer is muriate of potash, often abbreviated as MOP. The chemical name is potassium chloride (KCl). The numbers 0-0-60 refer to the NPK ratio — 0% nitrogen, 0% phosphorus, and 60% potash. It is the most economical and widely available form of potassium fertilizer used in both commercial agriculture and home gardens. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Growth 0-0-60 Fertilizer is a premium-grade muriate of potash suitable for a wide range of crops and soil types.
What are the benefits of 0-0-60 fertilizer?
0-0-60 fertilizer provides several key benefits for plants and soil. It strengthens plant cell walls, improving resistance to drought, disease, and cold temperatures. Potassium also enhances root growth, improves water uptake efficiency, and boosts photosynthesis for more vigorous plant development. For fruiting and flowering crops, potassium improves fruit size, flavor, and color. It also helps regulate the opening and closing of stomata, reducing water loss. Because it contains no nitrogen or phosphorus, 0-0-60 allows you to correct potassium deficiency without affecting other nutrient levels. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Growth 0-0-60 delivers these benefits in an easy-to-apply granular formulation.
When should I apply 0-0-60 fertilizer?
Apply 0-0-60 fertilizer based on soil test results that indicate potassium deficiency. For lawns, the best times are early spring and fall to strengthen root systems and improve winter hardiness. For vegetable gardens, apply before planting or as a side-dress during the growing season when plants are actively developing fruit. For field crops, apply in spring before planting or split between pre-plant and mid-season applications. Always water thoroughly after application to move potassium into the root zone. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Growth 0-0-60 Fertilizer is versatile enough for use on lawns, gardens, and farms year-round.
What is 0-0-60 fertilizer used for?
0-0-60 fertilizer is used to supply potassium to plants when soil tests show a deficiency in this essential nutrient. Common uses include strengthening lawns against drought and winter stress, improving fruit quality in vegetable gardens and orchards, boosting disease resistance in crops, and enhancing root development in newly established plantings. It is especially beneficial for potassium-hungry crops like potatoes, tomatoes, corn, and fruit trees. Turf managers also use it as a fall hardener for lawns. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Growth 0-0-60 Fertilizer is a targeted potassium solution for home gardeners, landscapers, and farmers.
How do I apply potassium fertilizer to my garden?
To apply potassium fertilizer like 0-0-60, first conduct a soil test to determine the level of deficiency. For garden beds, broadcast 1–2 pounds per 100 square feet and work it into the top 4–6 inches of soil before planting. For established plants, side-dress by sprinkling the granules around the base of plants, keeping it a few inches from stems. For lawns, use a broadcast spreader for even coverage at 2–4 pounds per 1,000 square feet. Always water deeply after application. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Growth 0-0-60 Fertilizer comes in an easy-to-spread granular form for precise, even application.
Can I use 0-0-60 fertilizer on my lawn?
Yes, 0-0-60 fertilizer is excellent for lawns, particularly when soil tests show low potassium levels. Potassium helps turfgrass develop stronger root systems, improves cold and drought tolerance, and increases resistance to diseases like brown patch and dollar spot. Apply 2–4 pounds per 1,000 square feet in early fall to help your lawn prepare for winter, or in spring to support vigorous growth. It pairs well with nitrogen-based fertilizers when your lawn needs both nutrients. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Growth 0-0-60 Fertilizer is a trusted choice for building resilient, healthy turf.