A well-fertilized lawn is better armed to fight heat, cold, drought, mowing and foot traffic. In addition, you will see a decrease in the amount of weeds and bugs. Follow these simple guidelines for a greener lawn you can enjoy all season long.
What Type Should I Use?
Understanding what type of fertilizer you need is easier when you know wht all of the ingredients do. Nitrogen (N) is important for the growth and greening of your lawn. Phosphorus (P) promotes root development. Potassium (K) aids in the overall health of plants and increases their tolerance to cold. Each bag of fertilizer prominently displays three numbers on the label outlining the exact percentage of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.
Keep in mind that some counties require the use of phosphorus-free fertilizers. In these areas, surface water already contains excessive levels of phosphorus and additional sources may lead to water quality issues.
When Should I Fertilize?
The answer to this question depends on what part of the country you live in, how you want your lawn to look, and the type of grass you have. As a rule of thumb, it is best to aply fertilizer when your lawn is actively growing. However, each type of grass has its own growing season and thus its own schedule to fertilize. Check with your local Ace to determine the optimal schedule for your lawn type.
|
Lot Size |
Square Footage |
Number of Bags |
|
1/4 acre |
10,890 sq. ft. |
1 large |
|
1/2 acre |
21,780 sq. ft. |
1 large and 2 small |
|
3/4 acre |
32,670 sq. ft. |
2 large and 1 small |
|
1 acre |
43,560 sq. ft |
3 large |
How Much Do I Need?
Every bag of fertilizer states how many square feet of lawn it covers. A small bag coves 5,000 square feet and a large bag covers 15,000 square feet. Use the chart above to determine how much fertilizer you will need based on your lawn size. Any leftover fertilizer can be stored and applied next year. Just seal the bag and store it in a dry location.
When Should I Water?
It all depends on what type of fertilizer you spread. If you spread fertilizer only, water immediately after applying or at least within 24 hours. The water begins the fertilizer release process, and it will also help avoid burning your grass. Most mixes contain some fast-release nitrogen to green up your lawn right away. Water carries this nitrogen to the roots where it's needed.
If you're spreading weed and feed, water your lawn right before application to keep the product stick to your grass. Don't water again for at least 24-48 hours. As always, check the bag for specific instructions.
What is the Best Way to Apply Fertilizer?
The most important thing to keep in mind when applying fertilizer is to spread it evenly. Uneven fertilizer application results in color and growth variation. There are a few techniques for applying fertilizer.
Drop spreaders are considered the more efficient, most precise tool for applying fertilizer. If you use this method, carefully overlap each pass through the lawn to avoid missing sections and causing a striped pattern as the lawn grows out. Broadcast spreaders are the best method for spreading fertilizer over a larger area. Broadcast spreaders distribute fertilizer in a much larger path, up to five or six feet wide.
What Other Tips Should I Keep in Mind?
- Check local regulations to see what products are allowed in your area.
- Mow a few days before application.
- Apply when the wind is calm.
- Apply when the grass is wet from dew or rain; poor results will occur if applied to dry lawns.
- Do not apply to plants or shrubs as damage may result; if you get some onto plants, immediately brush or wash it off.
- Delay mowing for three days after application.
- If your lawn has been seeded recently, wait until after the third mowing before fertilizing; don't seed or overseed the treated area for 10 weeks after application.