Fertilizer is an integral part of lawn care for anyone who wants their lawn to stand out from the crowd. We have a short growing season with big changes each month, and applying the right fertilizer at the right time will give the grass plants stores of the nutrients they need to get optimal performance until the next feeding.
We plan our rounds of fertilizer to supply the most important nutrients for the UPCOMING seasonal changes. Spring and Fall fertilizer rounds focus on growth above ground so that a lawn can fill in, while Summer and Winter fertilizer rounds focus on growth below ground and fortification to prepare the turf for harsher conditions.
Timing is important too. For example, even though it is called a “Summer” application, this round is applied usually in early June. We avoid application of fertilizer during the heat of summer, beginning around Mid June and ending around Mid August, since nutrient uptake is not very high (especially if a lawn has gone dormant or partially dormant).
We currently use element based fertilizers, similar to what you can purchase at your hardware store. It is crucial to remember to “water in” this type of fertilizer usually within 48 hours for best results. A good soaking of 1 inch or more is ideal. Whether you use generic fertilizers to do-it-yourself, or hire a service company for fertilization, it is up to you to make sure this happens.
Help your lawn live it’s best life out there this summer.