Fertilizing and Treating Lawns

Every year you should fertilize your lawn if you want it to grow well and stay healthy. A properly fertilized lawn will provide a thick, soft lawn. Fertilizing your lawn yourself will only require a few tools and will be a good weekend project.

Pre Fertilizing

Wait for your lawn to grow enough to mow it a couple times before planning on fertilizing it. The best time to fertilize your lawn is during the spring, which is the beginning of the growing season. Research what type of fertilizer you need by first figuring out what type of grass you have. You might need to talk with an expert at a local home and garden store to help you figure out if your grass is all one type or a mixture. Certain types of fertilizer will help lawns grow better than others. 

Fertilizing Process

You'll need a spreader to properly fertilize your lawn. You shouldn't have to purchase a fertilizer spreader, a lot of stores will allow you to rent them or you could borrow one from a neighbor or friend. Purchasing a fertilizer spreader might be a good investment if you plan on fertilizing your lawn annually.

Apply the fertilizer evenly over your entire lawn. Be careful not to overlap the fertilizer because it could cause grass to grow unevenly. Make sure you wear goggles when applying the fertilizer. Some fertilizers could cause eye irritation and discomfort. Also make sure you're moving at a decent walking pace when applying the fertilizer so you don't over fertilize certain areas.

Try to fertilize your lawn once more later in the growing season. Your grass will start to burn out in some spots during the summer because of the heat. Fertilizing your lawn during this time will help give it another kick start. You might just need to fertilize spots that look a little brown, but it wouldn't hurt to sprinkle a little over your entire lawn.

Also try to remember to apply a winter fertilizer early in the fall to help your grass survive the winter months. Consult with an expert about winter formulas become some types of grass might not need this.