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Read the BlogA lush, green lawn is the envy of any homeowner. But achieving that perfect lawn requires proper fertilization. Knowing how often to fertilize your lawn in each season can be the difference between a thriving lawn and one that's struggling to grow. In this blog post, we'll discuss how often to fertilize your lawn in the spring, summer, and fall.
Spring fertilization
Spring is the time when grass begins to come out of its winter dormancy and starts to grow actively. The first thing you should do is check your lawn for any signs of damage from winter, such as snow mold or dead patches. Once you have assessed the condition of your lawn, it's time to fertilize.
The best time to fertilize your lawn in the spring is when the soil temperature reaches about 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the optimal temperature for grass growth. Applying fertilizer too early can be a waste of time and money because the grass won't be able to use it until the soil warms up.
A good rule of thumb is to fertilize your lawn in the spring once or twice, about six to eight weeks apart. This will provide your lawn with the nutrients it needs to grow strong and healthy.
Summer fertilization
Summer is the time when grass grows the fastest and requires the most nutrients. However, it's important to be careful not to over-fertilize during the hot summer months, as it can stress the grass and lead to disease.
The best time to fertilize your lawn in the summer is early in the season, before the heat of summer sets in. Fertilizing too late in the season can cause excessive top growth, which can make the grass more susceptible to disease and pests.
If you fertilized your lawn in the spring, you may only need to fertilize once in the summer, about six to eight weeks after your spring application. However, if your lawn is in poor condition or receives heavy foot traffic, you may need to fertilize more frequently.
Fall fertilization
Fall is the most important time of year to fertilize your lawn. During the fall, grass grows slower, but its roots continue to grow and absorb nutrients. By fertilizing in the fall, you'll help your lawn store up nutrients for the winter and promote early spring growth.
The best time to fertilize your lawn in the fall is when the temperatures start to cool down, usually in late September or early October. This is usually about six to eight weeks before the first hard frost. Applying fertilizer after the first hard frost can be ineffective, as the grass is no longer actively growing.
A good rule of thumb is to fertilize your lawn once in the fall, about six to eight weeks before the first hard frost. This will provide your lawn with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy throughout the winter and grow strong in the spring.
In conclusion, fertilizing your lawn is an important part of lawn care. Knowing how often to fertilize your lawn in each season will help you achieve a healthy, lush lawn. Remember to always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package, and be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can damage your lawn. With the right care and attention, your lawn will be the envy of the neighborhood.
External links:
"When Should I Fertilize My Lawn?" by The Spruce
"Fertilizing Lawns" by University of Minnesota Extension
"Fertilizing Your Lawn" by Colorado State University Extension
Created: 6/28/2022