Question:
How do I fertilize my lawn?
Use the Right Fertilizer
Most grasses, like all living things, do best when their nutritional requirements are met "completely." This has given rise to the formulation of so-called "complete" fertilizers. Such products will contain four times as much Nitrogen as Phosphorous and twice as much Nitrogen as Potassium. This 4-1-2 formulation is often sold in a 16-4-8 analysis, and includes trace minerals and nutrients, such as Iron and Zinc. Avoid the heavy, repeated use of high Nitrogen fertilizers, which contain 5, 6, even 7 times as much Nitrogen as anything else in the bag. Applying these will get the desired short term results--the grass will develop a lush green canopy. But overdoing it will have predictable long term results. The grass will not be able to develop the root system it needs to support that canopy, so the grass will be more susceptible to drought. The grass will also not be able to develop a capable immune system, so the lawn will be more susceptible to disease. Diseased, drought stressed turf is then a favored target of insect pests. Two applications of 16-4-8 per year--once in spring, once in early fall--will provide very good color and growth for your St. Augustine, Bermuda or Zoysia lawn (Centipede needs a special fertilizer). If additional color and growth is desired, light applications of high Nitrogen fertilizers can be made through the growing season.
Centipede Fertilizer
Unless a soil analysis has recommended the application of another fertilizer, you should only use 15-0-15 on Centipede. Why? Because Centipede does not need Phosphorous (the middle number) in more than trace amounts. If your soil is slightly alkaline, the Phosphorous can lock Iron up in the soil, causing the grass to suffer Iron chlorosis and turn yellow. You should not use high Nitrogen fertilizers on Centipede, either. It thrives under low fertility conditions and will do just fine with a moderate amount of Nitrogen. If you try to push it with too much Nitrogen, it will develop a lush green canopy that cannot be supported by the rest of the plant. The lawn then becomes a target for pests and disease.
Lawn Frequently Asked Questions
What are the DOīs and DONTīs of Lawn Care?
What kind of grass should I plant?
What is the best way to mow the lawn?
How do I get stripes like ballparks do?
What kind of weed is this? How do I get rid of it?
Why has my well manicured lawn has been invaded by disease?
What are some common lawn problems?
Do you have any tips for professionals?
What kind of bug is this? How do I get rid of it?
What are some common lawn problems?
Why is my grass not doing well?
How do I start a new lawn using seed?
How do I get rid of mushrooms?
How can I make the transition between driveway and entry more pleasant
How do I permanently rid my lawn of weeds?
How do I treat a lawn disease?
What are some common lawn problems?
Can I use Weed and Feed on my lawn?
How can I control the growth of my lawnīs grass?
What is the best way to mow the lawn?
Why did my grass turn brown after I fertilized?
Whatīs the best way to mow the lawn quickly?
Why is my grass not doing well?
Can I fertilize without adding a lot of chemicals?
How can I put a waterfall in my rock garden?
How do I treat a lawn disease?
Can I analyze the soil with a kit?
When is the best time to plant trees?
Why should I mulch my clippings?
Which existing plants should I keep?
Can my property be too wet for a good lawn?
Is it best to plant trees before or after shrubs?
Can I fertilize without adding a lot of chemicals?
What are guidelines for where to plant a tree?
What seed should I plant for the best results?
Where do I start to prune a garden?
What does too much pruning do?
Where should I put my water garden?
What are the benefits of pruning?
Whatīs the best way to prune spruce trees?
Where can I get a soil analysis?
How do you remove soft growth from fruit trees?
How thick a branch will pruners trim?
What should I look for when buying loppers?
What tools do I need for pruning?
How can i reduce landscape maintenance?
What material should I use for my pond?
What can I do about sandy soil?
How can I prevent fungus in a shady garden?
Why did my grass turn brown after I fertilized?
Should I build a large or small pool?
Why are there more fungi in the shady parts of the garden?
How much should I water a shade garden?
How can I prevent plant fungi?
How does pruning keep trees healthy?
What soil should I use for shade gardening?
What advantages are there to shade gardening?
What is next after planting cedars for a hedge?
