Fertilizing Lawns: Understanding How Grass Grows

Fertilizing Lawns: Understanding How Grass Grows

Determining how much and when to fertilize is as simple as understanding the importance of how your grass grows.

For most low-maintenance lawns, a single application in the fall about two weeks after the last mowing will be sufficient. Apply approximately one pound per 1,000 sq. ft. For best results, use a fertilizer that is about 70 percent slow-release.

Although higher maintenance lawns require similar applications, avoid early-spring applications. Research shows that these applications do not really enhance spring green-up compared with late-fall applications. For optimum results, at least 50 to 75 percent of the nitrogen applied to any lawn should come between the months of August and November.

Fertilizing healthy lawns in spring tends to increase top growth at the expense of root growth. This lush, succulent growth encouraged by spring fertilization makes the plant more susceptible to insects and diseases. Plants with smaller roots are also more vulnerable to drought later in the season.

Lawns that did not receive fall fertilizer applications or have suffered from winter injury may benefit from spring nitrogen applications. For best results, wait until soil temperatures have warmed to at least 55 F before applying.

A local grounds care specialist, such as The Grounds Guys® can offer assistance in determining what your lawn needs and applying the right fertilization regimen.