Lawn Fertilizer Schedule

Maintaining a healthy, green lawn requires proper fertilization at the right times of the year. Here is a general lawn fertilizer schedule tailored for cool-season and warm-season grasses:

Cool-Season Grasses (e.g., Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, ryegrass)

1. Early Spring (March to April):
   • Type: Balanced fertilizer (e.g., 20-5-10)
   • Purpose: Encourages early growth and recovery from winter dormancy.
2. Late Spring (May to June):
   • Type: Slow-release, balanced fertilizer
   • Purpose: Supports ongoing growth and prepares the lawn for summer.
3. Early Fall (September):
   • Type: Balanced fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content (e.g., 24-0-10)
   • Purpose: Encourages growth and helps the lawn recover from summer stress.
4. Late Fall (October to November):
   • Type: Higher potassium fertilizer (e.g., 10-5-10)
   • Purpose: Enhances root development and prepares the lawn for winter dormancy.

Warm-Season Grasses (e.g., Bermuda, St. Augustine, zoysia)

1. Late Spring (April to May):
   • Type: Balanced fertilizer (e.g., 20-5-10)
   • Purpose: Promotes green-up and strong growth as the grass comes out of dormancy.
2. Early Summer (June):
   • Type: Nitrogen-rich fertilizer (e.g., 25-0-10)
   • Purpose: Supports vigorous growth and color during peak growing season.
3. Mid-Summer (July to August):
   • Type: Slow-release, nitrogen-rich fertilizer
   • Purpose: Maintains growth and resilience against heat stress.
4. Early Fall (September):
   • Type: Balanced or high-potassium fertilizer (e.g., 10-5-15)
   • Purpose: Prepares the lawn for the transition to dormancy.

General Tips:

• Soil Testing: Conduct a soil test to determine specific nutrient needs and pH adjustments.
• Application Rates: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for application rates.
• Watering: Water the lawn lightly after fertilizing to help the nutrients penetrate the soil unless using a liquid fertilizer where instructions may vary.
• Mowing: Don’t mow the lawn immediately before or after fertilizing to avoid stress on the grass.
• Environmental Considerations: Avoid fertilizing right before heavy rain to prevent runoff into waterways.

Additional Seasonal Care:

• Aeration: Aerate the lawn in the fall for cool-season grasses or in late spring/early summer for warm-season grasses to alleviate soil compaction.
• Overseeding: For cool-season grasses, overseed in the fall. For warm-season grasses, overseed if needed in late spring or early summer.

Remember, these are general guidelines. Local climate conditions, grass types, and specific lawn needs can influence the best times and types of fertilizer to use. Always consult with local extension services or lawn care professionals for advice tailored to your area.