Tips for Spreading Lawn Fertilizer

Why is Fertilizing Important?

Fertilizing your lawn is an important part of keeping it healthy and looking its best. Fertilizer helps to replenish lost nutrients in the soil, providing essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium to your lawn. Without adequate fertilizing, your lawn can become sparse, patchy, and prone to weeds, insects and disease.

When to Fertilize?

The best time to fertilize your lawn is in the spring and fall, when temperatures are moderate and the soil is moist. During the summer months, fertilizer can cause the grass to become scorched or burned, so it is best to wait until temperatures cool down. It is also important to water your lawn after applying fertilizer, as this will help the nutrients to be absorbed by the soil.

Types of Fertilizer

There are two main types of fertilizer: granular and liquid. Granular fertilizer is the most common type, and is available in bags at your local garden center. It is applied by spreading the granules over your lawn with a spreader. Liquid fertilizer is less common, but is easier to apply as it is simply sprayed onto the lawn. Both types of fertilizer are equally effective, so it is a matter of personal preference which one you use.

How to Apply Fertilizer

Once you have chosen the type of fertilizer to use, it is important to apply it correctly. Start by setting the spreader to the recommended setting on the label. Then, walk in a pattern over the lawn, making sure to overlap each pass by about 50%. This will ensure that the fertilizer is distributed evenly across the entire lawn. Once the fertilizer has been applied, water your lawn to help the nutrients to be absorbed.

Keeping Your Lawn Healthy

In addition to fertilizing your lawn, it is important to keep it healthy by mowing regularly and removing any weeds. Make sure to mow your lawn at the recommended height, and to sharpen the blades of your mower to ensure a clean cut. If you notice any weeds, use an appropriate weed killer to remove them, as this will help to keep your lawn looking its best.