Most landscaping experts would tell you that one of the best ways to maintain a healthy, lush lawn is with good fertilization. Being consistent in feeding your plants and grass ensures your vegetation is receiving the nutrients necessary to thrive.
While many of us have fertilized before, we often don’t consider what we can do to increase our chances of success. In fact, there are many different ways we can either help or hurt our lawns when it comes to fertilization. How you approach this outdoor chore can mean the difference between a flourishing, beautiful backyard and one that is just so-so.
Here are some of the DOs and DON’Ts for better lawn fertilization:
DO
– DO consider a slow-release fertilizer. This type of formula breaks down nutrients more slowly allowing you to space out applications.
– DO check out your fertilizer package label. Each bag of fertilizer will have three numbers – one represents the percentage of nitrogen, one for phosphate and one for potassium.
– DO follow the directions for watering. Watering is essential for allowing the fertilizer to penetrate the soil. Make sure to include a good soaking.
– DO overlap your application strips slightly so you have an even application.
DON’T
– DON’T fertilize too often. If using a regular fertilizer, every four weeks is sufficient. If using a slow-release formula, you can space it out to 6-8 weeks.
– DON’T go with the cheapest fertilizer you can find. Like most things, you get what you pay for when it comes to your lawn care needs.
– DON’T over or under water your lawn before or after fertilization. The right amount will provide the moisture necessary to break down the granules.
– DON’T miss any areas of the lawn during application. This could result in “dead spots”.
There are few things more important to a healthy lawn than the benefits of a good fertilization. For help in taking care of your property’s landscaping needs, contact the team at Martin John Company. We provide both our residential and commercial customers the expert care they are looking for. Let us help give your grass, garden beds, and flowers the attention they deserve!