What is the Best Time of Year to Fertilize my Lawn?

There is nothing that makes your property look as good as a lush, green lawn. Taking care of your lawn and making it look great is no small task, though. You may water it daily and mow it regularly, but you can enhance your lawn’s appearance even more by using fertilizer.

Fertilizer gives your grass the essential nutrients that it needs to grow strong and healthy. Fertilizing your lawn helps to promote lush, green growth. A well-fertilized lawn is less likely to be damaged by pests and diseases.

The best time to fertilize your lawn depends on the type of grass you have and the climate in your area. Generally, all lawns should be fertilized at least once a year. If you choose to fertilize just once, September is an excellent time for it. If you plan to fertilize your lawn in the spring as well, it should be done in early to mid-April. Multiple fertilizer applications in the fall may eliminate the need for a spring application. September and October are the best times for fall fertilization.

Before fertilizing, it is a good idea to test your soil to understand its nutrient levels and pH balance. This will help you choose the right type of fertilizer. Also, avoid fertilizing just before heavy rainfall, as the nutrients may wash away. Here are some other guidelines based on the type of grass you have.

Cool-Season Grasses

These include Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, and ryegrass. Early spring is a good time for fertilizer. From March to April, as temperatures start to warm up, a light application of fertilizer can help the grass green up and recover from winter. From May to June, a more substantial feeding helps the grass build strength before the heat of summer.

However, early fall, from September to October,is the most important time for fertilizing cool-season grasses. The cooler temperatures allow the grass to recover from summer stress, and the nutrients help it store energy for winter and early spring growth.

Warm-Season Grasses

This category of grasses includes Bermuda, St. Augustine, and zoysia. You should fertilize from April to May when the grass is fully green and actively growing. This helps the grass establish strong roots and healthy blades. A midsummer feeding from June to August can be beneficial, but you should avoid fertilizing during extreme heat or drought conditions. A light application of fertilizer in September can help maintain growth as the temperatures begin to cool down.

Contact All Star Landscaping Today for Lawn Care & Maintenance

Fertilizing your lawn is important for its health and appearance. Make sure you use the right products and do it at the right times of the year for the best results.

Here at All Star Landscaping in St. Louis County, we bring you more than 30 years of experience in lawn care, maintenance, and landscaping. Our service really makes us shine. We offer a range of services that work for a range of budgets. Get a quote today by filling out the online form.