Fertilizer Basics

Understanding the basics of fertilizer is essential for effective lawn care. Fertilization helps develop dense, healthy grass, making the grass green and improving the overall health of the lawn. Here is a breakdown of the fertilizer basics you should know to maintain a healthy lush lawn.

What Fertilizers Are and Key Nutrients

Each bag of fertilizer has its contents specified by a three number ratio that indicates how much nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) make up the fertilizer. For example a 32-5-7 fertilizer indicates 32% nitrogen, 5% phosphate, and 7% potassium.

Nitrogen is the most important element in developing a dense attractive lawn. Nitrogen is essentially what makes a lawn green. Many lawns lack nitrogen and it is important to supplement that nitrogen with fertilizer containing nitrogen.

Phosphorus is the next element in order of importance. It helps establish strong roots and stems.

Potassium is the final element included in fertilizers. It also promotes strong root and stem growth. The soil type largely determines how much Potassium is needed. Sandy soils will typically need potassium more often than clay soils.

Types of Fertilizers

There are two most common types of fertilizer Quick-release and Slow-release. A simple way to think about these options is that Quick-release is a liquid fertilizer and Slow-release is a granular fertilizer.

Quick-release Fertilizer

Quick-release fertilizer is more rapidly available to the plant meaning that the grass will get green faster and grow more quickly. It is generally less expensive however it has a higher chance of causing leaf burn and can make grass look uneven if applied unevenly. There is also a higher chance of leaching so it is important to follow all guidelines during application.

Slow-release Fertilizer

Slow-release Fertilizer provides the nutrients to the lawn at a slower rate. One single application can supply nutrients for a longer period of time. There is a lower chance of burn and reduced leaching. Slow-release fertilizer is usually more expensive because many consider it more effective and longer lasting than liquid fertilizer.

Application Tips

Time of year - Application of the right fertilizer at the right time is critical. Fertilizer should be applied from early spring to late fall adjusting the N, P, K combinations for the time of year and type of grass.

Dry grass blades - Lawn should be dry during the application and watered soon after fertilizer has been applied. Check the bag of fertilizer for timing.

Uniform application - Make sure to apply fertilizer uniformly throughout the lawn in order to avoid burn or leaching.

Leave grass clippings - Leave grass clippings on your lawn after mowing to provide additional nutrients to the lawn.