Lawns need varying amounts of fertilizer depending on the soil content, type of grass grown, location, and other factors. If you have a fertile lawn with lush growth and proper drainage, you don’t need as much fertilizer as those whose lots have been depleted of nutrients. You can use a professional lawn fertilizer service to help you determine the ideal amount for your yard. Here’s how to determine your lawn’s fertilizer type and amount:
Get a Soil Test
A soil fertility test allows you to determine the status of your lawn’s nutrients. You can get multiple tests a year if you have a lawn fertilizer service provider or schedule one whenever you need. The test checks the pH level of your soil and nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Some tests check the cation exchange capacity, base saturation, and lime requirement index.
You can also get additional tests for iron, zinc, manganese, nitrates, and soluble salts. The test allows you to determine deficiencies and how much fertilizer and pH-modifying agents are needed to restore optimal levels. If your soil is poor and deficient in many nutrients, the lawn care team can perform frequent tests. The tests help to inform adjustments for fertilizer types and application schedules to achieve the required results.
Choose Quality Fertilizer
Fertilizer labels feature the ratios of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which promote stem growth, root development, and disease resistance. The nutrients come in varying qualities, depending on the source and brand. You can also find organic fertilizer and compost. Choosing quality fertilizer gives your grass access to premium nutrients that support growth and overall health.
Look for balanced fertilizers that address specific needs. If you have soil with nitrogen deficiency, choose a fertilizer with higher nitrogen content. Other ingredients used to balance soil pH should also be of good quality. Ask the lawn service company about their ingredients, sources, previous results, and chemical exposure to find high-quality fertilizer. You can also use compost and organic alternatives to reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers.
Determine Application Timing
The amount of fertilizer, application rate, and timing depend on the type of grass, soil, and nutrients available in your lawn. Lawn service professionals usually apply a calculated amount of fertilizer per square foot per year. The amount of fertilizer added to your lawn is divided into multiple applications during different stages and seasons. Growing seasons feature more frequent applications, usually in spring and early summer.
Cool seasons see reduced application frequency because the plants absorb less. Rainy seasons also see less application to prevent the nutrients from being washed away in the water runoff. Lawn care professionals also use both fast-release liquid fertilizers and slow-release granules during different seasons. Application timing allows you to maintain an optimal nutrient profile for different stages of growth.
Adjust Based on Needs
Fertilizer and other soil amendments help to improve the chemical, biological, and physical balance of your lawn. If you already have a thriving lawn, you only need minimal amendments and monitoring to maintain the lush growth. For poor lawns with bald patches, browning, stunted growth, and other issues, more aggressive application may be necessary. Your lawn care team can test your soil and identify the grass and nutrient profile required to sustain it.
Some species, such as bluegrass, require more nitrogen, while others thrive in soils with more potassium. Lawn care professionals use sophisticated machines and broadcast spreaders for even distribution. They also use regular testing and adjustments to adjust your soil quality for your lawn’s needs.
Find a Lawn Fertilizer Service Today
Fertilizers feature varying nutrients, ratios, and application types. You can work with a professional lawn and tree company to help you determine the type and amount of fertilizer your plants need. Get a lawn fertilizer service today to provide your grass with the nutrients to enhance growth.