Lawn Service Fertilizer
Here is what you need to know about Fertilizer
The first number is the amount of Nitrogen (N) – Greens up the Grass
The second number is the amount of Phosphate (P2O5) – Stronger Roots
And the third number is the amount of Potash (K2O) – Tolerance
The biggest tip is to fertilize whether you use an organic nitrogen fertilizer like Milorganite or a traditional fertilizer. The best time of year to fertilize grass is fall to add protection to the harsh winter ahead. Fertilizer helps the roots become deeper which helps in case of freeze. The second best time to fertilize is spring. It’s critical to replenish the nutrients in the soil depleted during winter. If you’re afraid you will burn up your sod, you can use Milorganite. It’s fool proof. Milorganite is a non-burning organic nitrogen fertilizer that feeds your lawn for two months. It can be applied to lawns, trees, shrubs, flowers, & vegetables. It doesn’t even have to be watered in.
Spring is a great time to feed your lawn to protect it from the summer heat and pests. A reminder to apply fertilizer in spring due to the nitrogen ban in most counties in Summer. Fertilizer is taken off the shelves for several months.
Regardless of which fertilizer you use, be sure you understand the instructions.
All fertilizer labels have three bold numbers.
In a nut shell this is what they do-
The first number is the amount of Nitrogen (N) – Greens up the Grass
The second number is the amount of Phosphate (P2O5) – Stronger Roots
And the third number is the amount of Potash (K2O) – Tolerance
These three numbers represent the primary nutrients you yard needs.
Nitrogen
-Nitrogen is what gives the grass its green color. Nitrogen is important for new and established lawns.
Top growth occurs at the expense of root growth, so excessive amounts of Nitrogen can restrict root growth.
Phosphorus
-Phosphorus is what makes the roots stronger and helps with flowering for plants and flowers and especially important for young turf. The rapid growth associated with germination requires phosphorous, therefore it is essential in starter fertilizers. Less is required in established turf.
Potassium
-Potassium also helps with root development but it’s also known for its ability to withstand stress. When supplied to the plant along with adequate amounts of Nitrogen, potassium thickens the cell wall.
This makes the plant better able to withstand drought, insects, disease and tolerances of extreme temperatures both hot and cold.