Our previous post shared a few lawn tips for a healthy lawn. This next chapter introduces a variety of basic fertilizers to promote good soil and/or plant growth, especially for lawn care.
Many homes are built on lots where the land is cleared and leveled with sand. Sadly, only a thin layer of soil accompanies your sod that sits on top of the sand (unless you have a thoughtful home builder that supplied a healthy level of organic soil).
Overtime, nutrients get lost and require replenishment. One option is cut your lawn low, aerate it, and spread an organic top soil that introduces lost nutrients. Another option requires fertilizers. I prefer a combination of both.
Shout-out: Down here in the South, my go-to local garden expert Randy Lemmon has a great fertilization and weed prevention schedule to supplement your soil.
Organic vs. Synthetic
There are two schools of thought: organic vs. synthetic fertilizers. Organic fertilizers like Milorganite feed the soil with microbes. The result takes time, but can promote a healthy lawn without a significant environmental impact. Synthetic fertilizers contain a specific ratio of Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) to be applied throughout the year (Milorganite also contains a lighter ratio of N, P, K). Granules require a spreader and proper application from manufacturer recommendation.
When you pick up a common fertilizer from Scotts, you may read a label with the numbers 15-5-10. Basic math, this is a ratio of 3-1-2 (also known as Texas Turf meant to be applied from April to August).
- Nitrogen, the first number, is used by plants to promote leaf growth. If you recall from biology, chlorophyll is green and nitrogen helps.
- Phosphorous, the second number, helps deepen the roots. A well established lawn can fight most diseases.
- Potassium, the third number, strengthens the blades or stems.
The Schedule
From spring to summer we apply a higher concentration of Nitrogen to promote growth. As we get closer to winter, the lawn turns dormant. We want to ensure the right nutrients are applied to strengthen the root system for next Spring during the lawn cycle.
In February, usually after the last freeze, we apply a green up formula, as previously mentioned: 15-5-10.
From March to April, we apply a slow release formula and then another round from June to July: 19-4-10
From October to November, we apply a fall mix: 8-12-16.
Additional trace minerals can be applied depending on your lawn status. For example, Iron in August. (In case you’re wondering, my favorite brand is Nitro-Phos. Check your local shops or garden centers.)
Weed Control
To prevent or minimize weed growth, apply a pre-emergent herbicide (Barricade) three times a year: February, May, and October.
Most garden experts have cautioned against applying fertilizers that contain Weed and Feed or quick-release fertilizers. With such a heavy dose, rain or water can wash away the chemicals into storm drains and into our water table that could contaminate other bodies of water and wildlife.
Storage
Most of these products are stored in a special, sealed, stackable container that I found on Amazon. It’s toddler proof (at least my toddler) and difficult to open without a special lid opener that only costs a few bucks.
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