In the Northern Hemisphere, the growing season typically starts between late April and early May. But this seasonal shift doesn't necessarily mean your grass will grow and flourish.
Sometimes, spring doesn't bring out the best in lawns without a little boost. It all comes down to you and your ability to perform yard fertilization.
Need some help with that? Here are our five best tips for fertilizing your lawn.
1. Test the Soil
You can't fertilize your grass correctly without knowing how it needs to be fed. You can figure this out by testing the soil.
In most cases, you'll gather about a dozen samples from around your yard, then send them off for analysis. From there, a lab test will show what you need to enrich your particular type of soil. Or, you can test the soil on your own.
Perhaps it needs a more balanced pH or more nutrients — either way, a soil test can show you what type of fertilizer you need.
2. Time It Right
If you're thinking about fertilizing in spring, you're on the right track. But you have to time your soil application with more than just the season.
You'll want to make sure the soil temperature is at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This reading is different from air temperature, so you might want to invest in a soil thermometer to aid you in your grounds maintenance.
3. Choose a Granular Formula
When experts provide landscaping services, they breeze in and quickly fertilize the lawn. They're able to move quickly because they often opt for spray fertilizer.
You may be tempted to purchase the same, but you have to keep in mind that they're pros. They can factor in wind and other variables to ensure your entire lawn is evenly covered in fertilizer. Even handy homeowners might not be able to do the same.
That's why you should choose a granular fertilizer formula. You can see precisely where you put it and how much you drop. This characteristic will ensure an even application, even if you're a newbie.
4. Outline a Feeding Schedule
You won't just fertilize your lawn once. Most grass will need five feedings throughout the spring and summer months.
Once you get that 55-degree reading — which will happen around April — you'll apply the first layer. Then, lay down another layer in mid-May. After that, you'll spread fertilizer every six to eight weeks until the growing season ends.
When fall rolls around, don't skimp out on the last feeding — fall fertilization is essential for multiple reasons. Plus, you can choose a phosphorous and potassium-rich blend to stoke root growth for a healthy lawn that survives through to next spring and beyond.
5. Water It Too!
Your lawn-watering schedule goes hand in hand with fertilizing. The more you water, the more you need to feed your grass.
For example, if you have an automatic sprinkler system, then you should re-fertilize every six weeks. If you don't, then you can push your feedings to an eight-week interval.
Check the label on your chosen brand of fertilizer, too. It will tell you if you should apply it pre- or post-watering.
Yard Fertilization at Its Best
These are our five best tips for yard fertilization. If you still have questions or worry about the quality of your green thumb, don't hesitate to call in the experts. Contact us today to get started on your landscaping project.
