The How’s Why’s And When’s Of Fertilizing Your Lawn

A green and healthy lawn is a thing of great beauty. It is the foundation for spending some quality time with friends and family. in fact there can be very few more joyous sights than children playing on a well manicured lawn.

The challenge for the homeowner is just how to keep that lawn looking spectacular – and this is where good fertilizer practice comes in.

There are a lot of choices when it comes to fertilizing a lawn – from just when to fertilize and what equipment to use, as well as the type of fertilizer that is required.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the choices that face the avid gardener.

1. Timing is Everything.

Just when to fertilize your lawn depends on what type of climate you enjoy and the types of grass. for instance in the warmer parts of the United States such is in the South warm season grasses are prevalent. To take advantage of the growing season lawns should be fertilized in late spring or the early days of summer. A second round of fertilizer should be applied as summer draws to a close.

In cooler temperatures fertilizer should be applied when the fall season comes around (October to November). Professional lawn care specialists are often of the opinion that one application per year is sufficient to keep the lawn in tip top shape. The combination and ratio of the components is indicated by a set of numbers on the package. For instance a ’10-10-10′ is a balanced mixture of the three components. A good Garden center consultant will be able to advise on which is best for your lawn.

2. Types of Fertilizer.

Many lawn care specialists swear by the application of compost as a fertilizer. There are a variety of reasons for this – but the primary motivation seems to be the organic nature of compost. The nitrogen in compost slowly feeds the lawn’s root system which makes for a healthier lawn. Rake in the compost so that it is spread between the grass plants.

There are also fertilizers which feature man made granules which are formulated to release nutrients on a time release basis. The release schedule may vary from slow to medium period. These fertilizers consist of a combination of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium for optimum lawn health over time.

3. How to get the most out of fertilizing.

Fertilizer should be spread after aerating the soil as this provides the fertilizer with a way of getting down to the root system of the grass.

Remember to water your lawn thoroughly – at least 24 hours before fertilizing. Apply the fertilizer and then lightly water once more.

There are numerous ways in which fertilizers can be spread. These include rotary spreaders, drop spreaders, handheld broadcast spreaders and even battery powered hand held spreaders. the right choice for your lawn will depend on its individual characteristics including the size of the lawn.

A great looking lawn is not only a sense of pride. It adds value to the home and provides the ideal surface for just having fun. Keep fertilizing and enjoy all these benefits.