How Often Do You Fertilize Your Lawn?

Why Fertilizer Matters

Fertilizing your lawn is an important part of lawn care. Fertilizer helps replenish essential nutrients to the soil, which helps promote healthier, stronger grass that can better withstand disease and pest damage. Fertilizer also helps the lawn absorb sunlight, water, and air more efficiently, resulting in a lush, green lawn.

How Often Should You Fertilize?

The frequency at which you should fertilize your lawn depends on several factors, including the type of grass, the climate, and the amount of wear and tear the lawn receives. Generally speaking, you should fertilize your lawn at least once or twice a year, but more if necessary. For cool-season grasses like rye and fescue, the best times to fertilize are in the late summer and early fall. For warm-season grasses like bermuda and st. Augustine, the best times to fertilize are in the spring and early summer.

What Type Of Fertilizer Should You Use?

When choosing a fertilizer, it’s important to select one that’s suitable for your type of grass. Look for a fertilizer with a balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Nitrogen helps promote green growth, while phosphorus helps promote root growth. Potassium helps promote overall plant health and helps protect plants from disease and pests. Additionally, look for a fertilizer with added micronutrients like iron, sulfur, and zinc for an added boost of nutrients.

Applying Fertilizer

Once you’ve chosen the right fertilizer for your lawn, it’s time to apply it. Start by mowing your lawn and removing any debris. Then, spread the fertilizer over the entire lawn with a fertilizer spreader. Make sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the appropriate amount to use. After applying the fertilizer, water the lawn thoroughly to help the fertilizer soak into the soil.

Other Tips For A Healthy Lawn

In addition to fertilizing your lawn, there are other steps you can take to help keep your lawn healthy. Mow regularly and leave the grass clippings on the lawn to help fertilize the soil naturally. Aerate the soil regularly to help promote air and water circulation. Water your lawn deeply but infrequently. Finally, make sure to regularly treat your lawn for weeds and other pests.