Fertilising your garden or crop field correctly can be the difference between a lush, productive season and a disappointing one. Choosing the right fertiliser isn’t always straightforward; it depends on your soil, crop type, nutrient deficiencies, and growth goals.
Among the trusted names in Australian agriculture, the Crop King range particularly CK88, CK55, and the newer CK77S, stands out for performance and reliability. Each of these blends is suited for different conditions and crop needs.
In this article, we’ll explore:
Understanding Crop King Fertilisers
CK88 – The High-Sulphur Powerhouse
CK55 – The Balanced All-Rounder
CK77S – The Slow-Release Specialist
Comparing CK88, CK55 and CK77S
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fertiliser
Application Tips for Best Results
Conclusion
Understanding Crop King Fertilisers
Crop King fertilisers are granular blends designed to meet the demands of Australian soils and crops. Developed by trusted fertiliser manufacturers, these blends provide a combination of macronutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) and secondary nutrients like Sulphur, and in some cases, micronutrients for balanced growth.
They are widely used in:
Tree crops (avocados, citrus, macadamias)
Vegetable fields
Lawns and turf
Ornamental gardens
Pasture and forage crops
CK88 – The High-Sulphur Powerhouse
Nutrient Profile (NPKS): 15–4–11–14
CK88 is one of the most popular fertilisers in the Crop King line. Its standout feature is the high sulphur content, making it ideal for crops grown in sulphur-deficient soils or where strong root and protein development is needed.
Best For:
Tree crops like avocados and citrus
Summer lawns (couch grass)
Vegetable crops on phosphorus-rich soils
Pasture where sulphur is a limiting factor
When to Use:
Use when soils are already high in phosphorus, as CK88 supplies only moderate amounts of P.
Ideal for boosting nitrogen and potassium uptake for vigorous vegetative growth and yield.
Apply 3 times a year (e.g. March, September, December for turf).
Why Choose CK88:
If your focus is on leafy growth, turf performance, or tree crops with strong sulphur needs, CK88 is a great choice. Its fast-acting nutrients make it excellent for in-season growth boosts.
CK55 – The Balanced All-Rounder
Nutrient Profile (NPKS): 14–15–13–1
CK55 is a well-balanced, general-purpose fertiliser for a wide range of agricultural applications. It delivers strong levels of nitrogen and potassium with moderate phosphorus and low sulphur.
Best For:
Pulse crops, vegetables, and lawns
Tree crops not requiring high sulphur
Ornamental gardens
Suitable when the soil already has some sulphur and doesn’t require extra
When to Use:
As a planting fertiliser for soils with existing phosphorus
Great during active growth phases in spring and summer
Can be used as a maintenance fertiliser across crop cycles
Why Choose CK55:
CK55 is ideal when you need a reliable, no-fuss fertiliser for mixed crops or ornamental gardens. It’s a favourite among landscapers and gardeners for its versatility and ease of application.
CK77 (S) – The Slow-Release Specialist
Nutrient Profile (NPKS): 13–2–13–20
CK77S is a premium, slow-release fertiliser that combines the benefits of balanced nutrition with long-term feeding. It contains both macro- and micro-nutrients, delivering complete nutrition over an extended period.
Best For:
Vegetable gardens
Fruit orchards
Ornamentals and flowering plants
Soils with varied nutrient needs
Commercial crops needing reliable, steady feeding
When to Use:
Apply before planting, or around established plants
Ideal for consistent growth throughout the season
Use in containers, beds, or in-ground crops
Key Benefits:
Complete nutrient profile including micros
Controlled nutrient release = less leaching, fewer applications
Encourages healthy root growth, strong stems, and vibrant foliage
Improves soil structure and long-term fertility
Why Choose CK77S:
CK77S is the smart choice if you want low-maintenance fertilising with reliable, season-long results. Whether you’re a home gardener or a commercial grower, this fertiliser offers maximum efficiency with minimum effort.
Comparing CK88, CK55 and CK77S
Here’s a side-by-side breakdown to help you choose the right Crop King fertiliser:
Feature | CK88 | CK55 | CK77S |
---|---|---|---|
N-P-K-S | 15-4-11-14 | 14-15-13-1 | 13-2-13-20 |
Nitrogen (N) | Very High | High | Moderate |
Phosphorus (P) | Low | Very High | Low |
Potassium (K) | High | High | High |
Sulphur (S) | High | Low | Very High |
Micronutrients | No | No | Yes (in some blends) |
Nutrient Release | Fast | Fast | Slow-release |
Ideal Use | Lawns, tree crops | New plantings, flowers | Sulphur-deficient soil, long-term growth |
Application Frequency | 2–3x yearly | As needed | Fewer applications |
How to Choose the Right One
Here’s a simple decision guide:
If you need… | Choose |
---|---|
Rapid leafy growth (lawns, tree crops) | CK88 |
Strong root development, flowering & fruiting | CK55 |
Long-lasting nutrition & sulphur boost | CK77S |
High phosphorus for poor soils | CK55 |
Low-maintenance feeding | CK77S |
Turf maintenance with high nitrogen needs | CK88 |
Soil lacking sulphur | CK88 or CK77S |
Note: Always consider your soil test results, crop type, and season when choosing.
Application Tips for Best Results
- Always water in after application
This helps dissolve the fertiliser and deliver nutrients to the root zone. - Don’t overapply
More fertiliser doesn’t mean more growth — it can burn your plants or disrupt soil balance. - Use a spreader for lawns or large beds
This ensures even distribution and prevents patchy results. - Match timing with growth cycles
Apply fertiliser when plants are actively growing — usually early spring and summer. - Store fertilisers in a cool, dry place
Granular fertilisers can absorb moisture from the air and degrade if not stored properly.
Where to Buy in Gold Coast?
Making the right fertiliser choice sets your garden or farm up for success. Whether you’re growing veggies, maintaining turf, or managing a large orchard, Crop King has a formula that fits.
At Garden Nursery Products, we sell Crop King fertilisers, pesticides, fungicides, and landscape and garden supplies. Visit us for expert advice to help you choose the best fertiliser for your needs. Drop by our store or shop online.