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Grass Fertilizer for Spring: What Type to Choose & When to Apply

Landscaping|Organic / Sustainable Landscaping|Landscape Design Ideas|Landscape Materials

Introduction

Whether your goal is to achieve a lush, green lawn early in spring or to improve the health and resilience of your grass during the hot summer season, applying fertilizer in early spring is essential. At Lyngso, we understand that selecting the right grass fertilizer for spring and choosing the best time to apply it can be a challenge, especially considering factors such as soil type, grass species, and local conditions. In this guide, we will explore the key aspects of spring fertilization and provide tips on choosing and applying the best fertilizer for your lawn.

Pro Tip:

For faster results, combine fertilization with lawn aeration. This process works very well with compost. Water the lawn, and aerate the following day by using an aerator or pushing down with rake tines to open up deeper pores in your soil surface, apply a ½”-1” layer of compost across your lawn surface, lightly rake to settle the compost and expose existing grass blades, and water again. This approach can significantly improve both the available organic matter, drainage, and oxygen levels for your grass , ensuring a more dense and healthy turf with deeper root systems as the weather warms.

Is It Important to Fertilize Your Lawn In Spring?

A well-fertilized lawn promotes a dense, uniformly green turf that withstands foot traffic better and provides an inviting space for outdoor activities throughout the growing season. However, keep in mind that your fertilization needs will vary based on the desired appearance of your lawn, soil type, grass species, and personal maintenance preferences.

What Are the Benefits of Applying Grass Fertilizer In Spring?

Faster Growth:

Applying grass fertilizer in spring offers several key benefits for maintaining a lush, healthy lawn:

The immediate visible benefit of a well-fertilized lawn is enhanced growth and a deeper green color due to increased chlorophyll production.

Increased Resistance

A lawn that receives adequate nutrients in spring is healthier, and better equipped to cope with the heat of the summer season, as well as resist pests and diseases.

Root Development

Spring is a crucial time for lawn care, and proper fertilization promotes root growth, essential for efficient water and nutrient absorption.

Weed Prevention

A robust root system enables a well-fertilized lawn to naturally outcompete weeds, reducing the need for chemical herbicides.

Fertilizer Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time to Apply Spring Lawn Fertilizer?

The best time to apply spring lawn fertilizer depends on the type of fertilizer, soil type, and local soil temperatures. Generally, you should begin fertilizing when your grass starts to green up, indicating that it is awaking from it’s dormant period and resuming growth.

How Much Fertilizer Should I Apply?

It’s crucial to follow the recommended application rates for whichever product you choose. There is no golden rule that will apply to all fertilizer choices.

What Kind of Grass Fertilizer Should You Use In Spring?

When choosing a grass fertilizer for spring, it’s important to select one that will best address your plants needs.

Some fertilizer options such as compost or manure are great to cover all bases and refresh your lawn with fresh organic matter to feed both the plant and soil.

Most fertilizer options will list their available nutrients with a string of three numbers, these are Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium. Most grass fertilizer will have higher available nitrogen to promote faster and more lush green growth. Phosphate is usually low or omitted entirely, as this is used to promote larger blossoms and fruit in flowering plants. Potassium increases your plant’s overall health and resistance to both diseases and stress, so it is especially important during dry summers like the ones we receive in California. Down to Earth’s Organic Bio-Turf Fertilizer is a great example of this desired balance as a 8-3-5.

Organic vs Synthetic Fertilizers

Organic fertilizers, such as compost, animal manures, biosolids, and granular blends, release nutrients slowly, thus providing a steady supply over an extended period. They are generally safer to use and work in partnership with your plant’s natural abilities, creating a healthier environment, better root systems, and pose less risk of burning your lawn through overapplication. Synthetic fertilizers, on the other hand, are typically less costly and offer quick greening responses, however these reactions aren’t usually sustained and will require more frequent application to maintain. These effects are outside the plants normal abilities and can place more stress on the plant’s system and as such can burn the lawn if not applied correctly, so pay close attention to application rates and times if using synthetic products. A good comparison would be humans using energy drinks for a fast but short lived increase in performance.

Granular vs Liquid Fertilizers

Most granular fertilizers have a slower release time, they are easier to spread and maintain correct application rates. Since it takes time for your plant to break them down, application times are usually fewer and further apart, and the risk of damage to your plant is very low since granular fertilizers are broken down by the plant as they need it. Liquid fertilizers are considered quick release as your plants roots can absorb them quickly. They are typically a cost-effective way to provide a quick nutrient boost. Liquid fertilizers are more challenging to apply evenly, but when used properly they can produce results that can be seen even on day 1. However, they will quickly deplete since liquid will not remain suspended for long, require more frequent reapplication, and improper use and overuse can easily damage your lawn. Both types can have their advantages, which depend on your lawn’s specific needs and maintenance schedule.

Final Thoughts

Applying grass fertilizer in the spring is a crucial step in maintaining a healthy, resilient, and visually appealing lawn. At Lyngso, we offer a comprehensive range of biologicals, minerals & liquid fertilizers to help you achieve your lawn care goals, whether you’re looking to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space or to strengthen your grass for the summer heat. Visit our showroom and landscaping yard in San Carlos for expert advice and inspiration and contact us today to learn about delivery options for your SF Bay area home.

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