How to Apply Fertilizer to Your Lawn

Applying fertilizer is a key step in maintaining a healthy, green lawn. To achieve an even, effective application, proper technique is essential.

Steps for Applying Lawn Fertilizer

Applying granular lawn fertilizer typically involves a few key steps, from preparation to post-application care.

1. Preparation is Key

• Choose the Right Fertilizer: Select a fertilizer suited to your lawn type, soil conditions, and the season. Soil testing can help determine nutrient needs.
• Check the Weather: Avoid applying fertilizer before heavy rain, which can wash it away, or during extreme heat, which can stress the lawn. A calm day is ideal to prevent granules from blowing.
• Prepare Your Spreader: Use a broadcast spreader or a drop spreader. Calibrate the spreader according to the fertilizer package instructions to ensure you apply the correct amount.
• Dress for Safety: Wear gloves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Eye protection is also recommended, especially when using a broadcast spreader.

2. The Application Process

Loading the Spreader: Carefully fill your spreader on a hard surface like a driveway or sidewalk. This makes cleanup easier if you spill any product.

Applying the Fertilizer: Walk back and forth across your lawn in parallel lines, slightly overlapping each pass to ensure full coverage.

• Walk at an even pace to ensure an even spread across your entire yard. As highlighted in lawn care guides, maintaining a consistent speed prevents some areas from receiving too much fertilizer (leading to burning) and others too little (resulting in uneven growth or color).
• When using a broadcast spreader, note that it throws granules outwards. Overlap your passes based on the spreader's throw width.
• With a drop spreader, the granules fall directly below the hopper. Line up passes carefully to avoid gaps or heavy overlaps.

3. Post-Application Care

Clean Up Spills: Sweep any fertilizer that landed on sidewalks, driveways, or patios back onto the lawn or into a bag. This prevents runoff into storm drains and staining.

Watering In: Once the product is fully applied water it. Watering after application helps move the fertilizer granules from the grass blades down to the soil and roots. This activates the nutrients and reduces the risk of burning the lawn, particularly in hot conditions. Water thoroughly, aiming to moisten the soil about an inch deep.

Tips for Success

• Measure Your Lawn: Knowing the square footage of your lawn helps you calculate the correct amount of fertilizer needed according to the product label.
• Edge Carefully: When using a broadcast spreader, consider using the edge guard (if available) or making a perimeter pass first to avoid throwing fertilizer into garden beds or onto hard surfaces.
• Store Properly: Keep unused fertilizer in its original packaging in a cool, dry place away from moisture.

By following these steps and paying attention to the application technique, like maintaining an even pace and watering afterward, you can effectively fertilize your lawn for optimal health and appearance.