Fertilizing your Lawn

Fertilizing your lawn is the best way to ensure that it is free from weeds and remains healthy, lush, and vibrant green. However, to ensure that you provide the right nutrients, you must take the time to make certain that you choose the best fertilizer for your lawn’s needs. In addition to choosing the best fertilizer for your lawn, you will also need to pay close attention to when you fertilize. Many people are unsure about what time of year they should fertilize as well as how many times per year. Understanding the type of fertilizer to use, when to apply it to your lawn, and how many times per year you should fertilize will ensure that you provide your lawn with the best care possible.

The United States is divided into eleven hardiness zones, to ensure that your lawn will thrive you must make certain that you have selected a type of grass that is suitable for your hardiness zone. Once you have determined your zone, you will choose from either warm season grasses or cool season grasses. Warm season grasses should be fertilized during the months of May, June, September, and October. It’s best not to fertilize them during the hot summer months such as July and August, or the cold months, ranging from November through April. If your grass is a cool season, then you should fertilize during the months of March, May, September and October. You don't want to fertilize during the cold winter months or during the heat of the summer.

If your lawn is beginning to look yellow or a mixture of colors, doesn't grow like it used to, and continually has a number of pests then you most likely need to fertilize. In addition to knowing what type of grass you have and the best time of year to apply fertilize, you will need to choose the best type of fertilizer for your lawns needs. Fertilizers contain a mixture of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium. If you aren't sure which type of fertilizer is best suited for your lawn, you can always ask your local nursery or garden center. Also, the fertilizer will have instructions that detail the best types of grass for which it is suited, as well as the best application methods.

When you apply fertilizer you will need to follow the directions on the package. It is also important to dispose of fertilizer in the recommended manner as well as store it in a safe place as it is hazardous to both pets and humans. You can choose from either liquid or granular fertilizer. The one you pick is based upon your personal preference. Liquid fertilizer has the advantage of acting faster than granular. You can apply liquid fertilizer with a garden hose and a sprayer attachment. There are two types of granular fertilizers. These are slow release and quick release. Granular fertilizers are applied by using a spreader followed by a light watering of the lawn to encourage the fertilizer to absorb into the soil.