Fertilizing your lawn provides all the nutrients and minerals necessary to turn a so-so backyard into a gorgeous carpet of green. But in order to make your lawn look perfect year-round, a strict lawn fertilizing schedule is in order.
Tips for an Effective Lawn Fertilizing Schedule
To get the full benefit of a good lawn fertilizing schedule, your lawn should be treated with slow-release formulas. No matter the fertilizer you choose, a slow-release formula can give your lawn what it needs over time, making your fertilizing schedule more effective.
Keep in mind that your climate and the kind of grass you have might mean the fertilizing schedule should be adjusted a bit. With that said, here are the basics for a good schedule:
- February through April. Your grass is ready to start growing again, so give it a preemptive boost. Use a high-quality combination fertilizer with pre-emergent control for crabgrass.
- April through June. Your lawn is growing like crazy during this period, so encourage it to thrive. Use a combination fertilizer again, but this time use one with heavy-duty broad-leaf weed control.
- June through August. Your grass now needs strengthening in order to stand up to foot traffic, insects, and drought. Fertilize often now, and opt for insect control if necessary.
- August through November. This is the most important time of the year for fertilizing your lawn. Apply a final feeding right before winter hits, so your lawn has ample nitrogen storage for the coming spring.
If you have problems with your lawn or are concerned about which fertilizers are best for your climate, talk to a lawn care professional before you begin a fertilizing schedule.
