Test Your Soil
Start with a soil test, so you know your soil's pH and what nutrients it's deficient in, such as potassium and phosphorus. "Most lawn-care newcomers will just grab a bag of fertilizer, but it's crucial to understand what your soil needs," says Elworthy. "Otherwise you're wasting money and polluting the environment by adding excessive nutrients that will run off into the surrounding watersheds."
Test in early spring, just before your lawn comes out of dormancy, then choose a fertilizer to match its needs. Also, if your pH is not between 6.2 to 6.9, you'll need to apply either lime or elemental sulfur, says Elworthy. "Otherwise your grass won't accept nutrients well and your fertilizer application will have little to no effect," he says.
Choose A Fertilizer
Fertilizers come in either granular or liquid form. Granular requires a spreader, while most liquids attach to a garden hose. "It comes down to a matter of preference," says Elworthy. "I usually choose liquids because they're easy and it also irrigates the lawn."
Elworthy also prefers organic fertilizers, which are often more environmentally sound, plus less likely to burn the grass. It may take a bit longer for your lawn to respond to them, but in the long run, they stimulate greater microbial activity in your soil, which will make your lawn more resilient and eco-friendly.
Also choose a fertilizer based on the results of your soil test. Closely follow the instructions on the label and consider local ordinances. "For example, most communities near a body of water will limit the use of phosphorus to avoid upsetting the delicate ecosystem surrounding lakes and rivers," says Elworthy.
Apply The Fertilizer
"I bet at least three out of every five homeowners use way more lawn fertilizer than they should," says Churchill. That harms soil, burns grass, contaminates groundwater and causes algae blooms.
To ensure you're using the right amount, calibrate your spreader and dial back the rate of lawn fertilizer applications to half, says Churchill. Then make two passes with your spreader at right angles. "Many retailers promote a four-step lawn fertilizing schedule," he says. "Fertilizing more than four times a year is overkill. Most homeowners could get by with two."
Water Down Your Lawn
After each application, sprinkle at least 1/4 inch of water over your lawn, which helps get the product into the root zone, says Elworthy. "If you leave synthetic fertilizers on the lawn for too long they will gas off into the atmosphere and you will have wasted the application," he says. Also, have patience. "Nothing happens quickly in lawn care. It's ultimately a hobby, so enjoy it!"
Clean Up
After you're done fertilizing, sweep up what remains on hard surfaces, such as your driveway, sidewalk or street. If fertilizer is left on these surfaces, rains will eventually wash it into water features and storm sewers. "In short, be a good environmental steward," says Churchill.
FAQ
Can you over-fertilize your lawn?
Yes. Excessive nitrogen and other fertilizer components can harm your turf. Especially avoid quick-release fertilizer, which can burn a lawn, says Elworthy.
How do you choose the best lawn fertilizer?
It depends on your region and grass type, but in general choose a slow-release version.
