5-Step Guide to Fertilizing Your Grass with the Perfect Numbers

1. Determine the Nitrogen Content of Your Fertilizer

Nitrogen is a key nutrient for grass growth, but too much can lead to problems like burning and thatch buildup. The ideal nitrogen content for your fertilizer will depend on the type of grass you have and the time of year.

• Cool-season grasses: Fertilize with a fertilizer that has a nitrogen content of 0.5 to 1 pound per 1,000 square feet in the fall and spring.
• Warm-season grasses: Fertilize with a fertilizer that has a nitrogen content of 1 to 1.5 pounds per 1,000 square feet in the spring and summer.

2. Calculate How Much Fertilizer to Apply

The amount of fertilizer you need to apply will depend on the size of your lawn and the nitrogen content of your fertilizer.

• To calculate how much fertilizer to apply, use the following formula:

Amount of fertilizer (in pounds) = Size of lawn (in square feet) x Nitrogen content of fertilizer (in pounds per 1,000 square feet)

• For example, if you have a 5,000-square-foot lawn and you are using a fertilizer with a nitrogen content of 0.5 pounds per 1,000 square feet, you would need to apply 2.5 pounds of fertilizer.

3. Divide the Fertilizer into Three Applications

It is best to divide the fertilizer into three applications, one in the fall, one in the spring, and one in the summer. This will help to prevent the grass from getting too much nitrogen at one time.

• Fall application: Apply half of the fertilizer in the fall, after the grass has stopped growing for the season.
• Spring application: Apply one-quarter of the fertilizer in the spring, when the grass is starting to green up.
• Summer application: Apply one-quarter of the fertilizer in the summer, when the grass is actively growing.

4. Apply the Fertilizer Evenly

It is important to apply the fertilizer evenly to prevent the grass from getting too much or too little nitrogen in one area.

• Use a spreader to apply the fertilizer.
• Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package.
• Avoid applying the fertilizer to the sidewalk or driveway.

5. Water the Fertilizer In

After you have applied the fertilizer, water it in thoroughly. This will help the fertilizer to reach the roots of the grass.

• Water the lawn deeply, so that the water penetrates to a depth of 6 to 8 inches.
• Allow the lawn to dry completely before mowing.

6 Tips for Choosing the Right Grass Fertilizer

1. Consider the type of grass you have. Cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass and fescue, require less nitrogen than warm-season grasses, such as Bermuda grass and zoysia grass.
2. Choose a fertilizer that has a slow-release formula. This will help to prevent the grass from getting too much nitrogen at one time.
3. Avoid fertilizers that contain weed killers. These can damage your grass if they are not applied properly.
4. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package. This will help to ensure that you are applying the correct amount of fertilizer.
5. Water the fertilizer in thoroughly. This will help the fertilizer to reach the roots of the grass.
6. Mow your lawn regularly. This will help to keep the grass healthy and prevent thatch buildup.

7 Benefits of Fertilizing Your Grass

Fertilizing your grass has many benefits, including:

• Improved growth and appearance: Fertilizer provides the nutrients that grass needs to grow healthy and strong. A well-fertilized lawn will be thick, green, and lush.
• Reduced weed growth: Fertilizer helps to crowd out weeds by giving grass the nutrients it needs to grow strong and healthy.
• Increased resistance to pests and diseases: Fertilizer helps to strengthen the grass's immune system, making it more resistant to pests and diseases.
• Improved water retention: Fertilizer helps to improve the soil's water retention, which can help to reduce watering costs.
• Increased curb appeal: A well-fertilized lawn is a beautiful addition to any home.

8 Frequently Asked Questions about Grass Fertilizer

Q: How often should I fertilize my grass?

A: You should fertilize your grass three times per year: in the fall, spring, and summer.

Q: How much fertilizer should I apply?

A: The amount of fertilizer you should apply will depend on the size of your lawn and the nitrogen content of your fertilizer. For most lawns, you will need to apply 1 to 1.5 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per year.

Q: What is the best type of fertilizer for grass?

A: The best type of fertilizer for grass is a slow-release fertilizer that contains a balanced blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Q: How do I apply fertilizer to my grass?

A: You can apply fertilizer to your grass using a spreader. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package.

Q: What are the benefits of fertilizing my grass?

A: Fertilizing your grass has many benefits, including improved growth and appearance, reduced weed growth, increased resistance to pests and diseases, improved water retention, and increased curb appeal.