Many aspects of caring for a lawn are seasonal, like using lawn fertilizer in spring. However, in most climates, fertilizing multiple times a year is the key to a healthy lawn. To help you accomplish your lawn goals, here are some tips for applying lawn fertilizer at the right time:
What’s the best fertilizing schedule?
Many homeowners follow a basic fertilizing schedule suggested by various lawn companies. Here is a basic example:
In early spring, use a lawn fertilizer containing a crabgrass preventer. Crabgrass is one of the most problematic lawn weeds, and stopping the seeds from germinating early in the season can save you time and effort later in the year.
In the early summer, fertilize again with a more general weed control fertilizer. Alternatively, use a herbicide to prevent ground ivy, clover and other common lawn weeds.
Late summer is the perfect time for a “summer-proof” lawn fertilizer. These formulas strengthen the grass against periods of drought and hot temperatures.
Apply a winterizing fertilizer in the fall to prepare your lawn for cold temperatures. Not only will it help keep the lawn healthy during the winter, it can provide essential nutrients to help promote a green lawn in the springtime
Using compost
Compost has excellent advantages as a lawn fertilizer, and maintaining a compost pile means you have a constant supply. It’s worth using compost to help feed your lawn if you have it available. Not only will compost provide a wide range of essential nutrients, it can help improve soil texture.
Many homeowners prefer using compost and other organic fertilizers instead of commercial fertilizers and achieve great results. A hybrid approach is also an exceptional strategy for saving money and growing a more sustainable lawn.
Other lawn fertilizer considerations
Is it necessary to fertilize your lawn so often throughout the year? Many lawn experts argue such heavy feeding can hinder root development and disease resistance of some grass varieties. However, lawn fertilizers also can feed the weeds, potentially increasing the amount of maintenance needed to keep the grass healthy.
Regardless of your ideal lawn fertilizing strategy, it’s important to follow any included instructions and consult local regulations regarding chemical use. The more you know about lawn fertilizers and their use, the better you can care for your lawn.
About the Author
Kyung Kim
Hi, I'm Kyung Kim. I immigrated from South Korea to the United States in 1968 when I was 7 years old. I have seen my mom struggle with the English language and work hard to raise her four kids by herself. Still to this day, I don't know how she pulled it off, but she bought her first home in 1979 for $70,000 and because of that decision, she was able to live without worrying about her financial future. I want that for everyone, to feel the pride of home ownership and to build their financial wealth using real estate as part of their financial portfolio. I feel so blessed to play a small role in helping others reach this goal.
I live in Beaverton with my husband, Richard. My mom, who lived with us for several years, passed away in our home in February 2022. Her first home purchase in 1979 made it possible for her to live to the very end, without worrying about her finances. As of August 2022 with a little downpayment assistance, our four children own their own homes. Being in real estate, I quickly realized that if they didn't buy now, they may be priced out of the market in the future. Whether that would have been the case, we will never know, but what we do know is that they are all realizing some good, healthy appreciation in their home values.
As passionate as I am about people owning their homes, I'm also passionate about giving back to our community. I support Compassion First, a non-profit organization that provides aftercare for sex trafficked girls in Indonesia. My husband and I also feel called to financially support social injustice organizations.
I'd love to assist you. Whether you're in the research phase at the beginning of your real estate search or you know exactly what you're looking for, you'll benefit from having a real estate professional by your side. I'd be honored to put my real estate experience to work for you.
