3 fertilizing tips to make a good lawn better

Lawn grasses vary in their appearance and most active seasons of growth, but all have several things in common. So if you want to make a good lawn better, here are three proven fertilizing tips to ensure you're on the right track.

[Image Credit: iStock.com/groveb]

All lawn fertilizers contain abundant nitrogen, so the first number in the fertilizer analysis should be high. Whenever possible, buy fertilizer formulated for your type of grass.

• Timed-release or organic fertilizers cost a little more, but they don't need to be applied as often.
• With most grasses a good feeding in spring, followed by the application of a "winterizer" fertilizer in late summer, provides ample nutrition – and sets the stage for a healthy start next season.

Beware of over fertilizing!

Turf-type tall fescue is okay to fertilize fairly often, however it is the exception.

• Turf-type tall fescue makes much of its strongest growth in fall, so the best time to feed it is in September or October. A second feeding in early spring is often beneficial.

However, don't over fertilize your lawn as a general rule of thumb. Why?

• Excessive fertilizing stimulates blade instead of root growth; promotes thatch buildup, and "addicts" the grass to nitrogen so that it requires ever-increasing doses.
• Overfed lawns also need to be mowed more often.

Grass clippings
Grass clippings contain nitrogen and the first clippings of spring are the richest of all.

• Even if you bag your clippings to use as garden mulch at other times of year, allow them to "grasscycle" back into the lawn in spring and early summer.
• Just as it does in your garden beds, grass clippings as compost work wonders on lawns.
• To help your lawn feed itself, spread about 1 cm (roughly 1/2-in.) of screened, weed-free compost over the grass each spring or fall.

Gypsum
Another way to help grass thrive in heavy soil is to spread gypsum each spring.

• Made from powdered rock, gypsum helps grass roots penetrate more deeply and aids drainage.
• Depending on soil type, apply two kilograms per nine square metres with a spreader or by hand. If you're unsure, follow the directions on the packaging to apply the correct amount on your lawn.

Fertilize when rain is coming, because fertilizer works best when it's washed down to the grass's roots within 24 hours.

• Prompt watering will also wash down any granules that come to rest on the grass blades and keep them from burning the grass.

Certain dry fertilizers, if left to sit on your grass too long, may actually burn the roots if conditions are very dry.

• To ensure maximum benefits from the type of fertilizer you intend to apply, read the spreading instructions on the bag as provided by the manufacturer.

A thorough application of fertilizer at the right time of year will not only help to address any issues you might have with your lawn right now, but provides your grass with the nutrients needed to grow lush and healthy the following season.