When is the Best Time to Fertilize Your Lawn? Learn Today!
Know the Schedule
Fertilizing your soil is always an imperative task in maintaining its health and vibrancy. However, knowing the best time to apply fertilizer can be challenging. So, when is the best time to fertilize your lawn? The timing of fertilization plays a significant role in how well your grass absorbs nutrients and thrives throughout the year. Learn more about the schedules below:
Early Spring: Awakening from Dormancy
When is the best time to fertilize your lawn? Check the seasons first. Early spring is one of the most critical times to fertilize your lawn, especially for cool-season grasses like fescue. As the weather warms and your grass emerges from winter dormancy, it needs a nutrient boost to kickstart growth. Fertilizing in early spring provides the necessary nutrients to strengthen roots and promote healthy, green blades. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer as soon as the soil temperature reaches around 55 degrees Fahrenheit, which is typically when lilacs start to bloom.
Late Spring: Encouraging Vigorous Growth
By late spring, your lawn is in full growth mode, making it an ideal time for the second round of fertilization. This application supports vigorous growth and helps the grass withstand the upcoming summer heat. For warm-season grasses like Bermuda, St. Augustine, and zoysia, late spring is the perfect time to apply fertilizer, as these grasses thrive in warmer temperatures. Use a high-nitrogen fertilizer to fuel blade growth and enhance the lawn’s overall resilience.
Summer: Maintaining Health and Color
Summer lawn fertilization is essential for maintaining your lawn’s health and color during the hottest months. However, be cautious with the type and amount of fertilizer you use, as high temperatures can stress your grass. Opt for a slow-release, balanced fertilizer to provide a steady supply of nutrients without overwhelming the lawn. For cool-season grasses, a light application in early summer can help sustain growth, while warm-season grasses may benefit from a midsummer feeding to keep them lush and green.
Fall: Preparing for Winter
Fall is arguably the most important time to fertilize your lawn, as it prepares the grass for winter dormancy and sets the stage for a healthy spring. Fertilizing in the fall helps strengthen root systems, making the grass more resilient to cold temperatures and frost. Apply a slow-release fertilizer high in potassium and phosphorus to encourage root development and improve the lawn’s overall hardiness. For cool-season grasses, late fall fertilization is particularly beneficial, while warm-season grasses should receive their final feeding in early fall.
When is The Best Time to Fertilize Your Lawn? Hire Us to Find Out!
Hiring Serene Surroundings Landscaping will help you fertilize your lawn on schedule. We offer our professional services in Hillsboro, OR. Dial (971) 309-3369 today!