Starter Fertilizer for Sod: The 3-2-1 Rule

What is a starter fertilizer?

A starter fertilizer is a type of fertilizer that is applied to newly planted sod to help it establish a strong root system. Starter fertilizers are typically high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are the three essential nutrients that plants need for growth.

Why use a starter fertilizer?

Using a starter fertilizer can help sod to establish a strong root system more quickly, which can lead to a number of benefits, including:

• Improved drought tolerance: Sod with a strong root system is better able to withstand drought conditions.
• Reduced weed pressure: Sod with a strong root system is less likely to be invaded by weeds.
• Increased disease resistance: Sod with a strong root system is more resistant to diseases.
• Improved overall appearance: Sod with a strong root system is more lush and green.

How to apply a starter fertilizer

Starter fertilizers are typically applied to the soil at the time of sod installation. The fertilizer should be evenly distributed over the entire area to be sodded. The recommended application rate for starter fertilizer is 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet.

Types of starter fertilizers

There are two main types of starter fertilizers: granular and liquid. Granular starter fertilizers are applied to the soil in a dry form, while liquid starter fertilizers are applied to the soil in a liquid form. Both types of starter fertilizers are effective, but granular starter fertilizers are typically less expensive than liquid starter fertilizers.

When to apply a starter fertilizer

Starter fertilizers should be applied to the soil at the time of sod installation. The fertilizer should be evenly distributed over the entire area to be sodded.

Benefits of using a starter fertilizer

Using a starter fertilizer can help sod to establish a strong root system more quickly, which can lead to a number of benefits, including:

• Improved drought tolerance: Sod with a strong root system is better able to withstand drought conditions.
• Reduced weed pressure: Sod with a strong root system is less likely to be invaded by weeds.
• Increased disease resistance: Sod with a strong root system is more resistant to diseases.
• Improved overall appearance: Sod with a strong root system is more lush and green.

Tips for using a starter fertilizer

Here are a few tips for using a starter fertilizer:

• Use the correct application rate. The recommended application rate for starter fertilizer is 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet.
• Apply the fertilizer evenly. The fertilizer should be evenly distributed over the entire area to be sodded.
• Water the fertilizer in. After applying the fertilizer, water it in well. This will help the fertilizer to reach the roots of the sod.

Conclusion

Using a starter fertilizer can help sod to establish a strong root system more quickly, which can lead to a number of benefits. If you are planning to install sod, be sure to use a starter fertilizer to help your sod get off to a strong start.

Additional resources

• How to Apply Starter Fertilizer to Sod
• The Benefits of Using Starter Fertilizer
• Types of Starter Fertilizers