7 Grass Fertilizer Mistakes to Avoid (and What to Do Instead)

4cae5160db83a42fff878bd4c2129df7
Share This Article

The most frequent adage is “some is good, but more is better,” and this relates to one of the numerous blunders new gardeners make while fertilizing. At first, nobody is a flawless gardener, and mistakes are a normal part of life. We wouldn’t ever learn if we did not make errors.

The benefit of fertilizing errors is that you discover what works for you and have a better grasp of what does not. Read on to learn about seven common mistakes to avoid when applying grass fertilizer.

1. Not Doing Your Homework

There is no universal fertilizer for all soil types, yard conditions, and various climates.

Thus, before purchasing fertilizer, you need to do your homework to determine the correct one for your lawn. By doing so, you will avoid using the wrong fertilizer application formula that can kill your grass.

For instance, you can do a soil test to determine which nutrients might be deficient in your yard. You will know which nutrient ratio needs to be the highest. A soil PH test can also help you know whether to use organic or synthetic formula and also the time to feed your grass.

It would help if you also read the label before applying any product. The strategy is not to overdo or underdo the application.

2. Going With Whatever Is On Sale

You probably would like a good offer. But when it comes to fertilizers, this is the last thing you should consider.

Low-priced fertilizer is more likely to have filler content and fewer nutrients. Thus, you will need to purchase more to match the needed nutrient content.

Thus, choose a reliable, high-quality fertilizer worth spending the extra dollars on. Also, read product labels to know whether the nutrients match the recommended amount. Professionals in lawn care can also help you find the right product.

3. Not Checking Weather Forecast Before Fertilizing

Before applying fertilizer to your yard, you need to listen to the weather forecast. Too much rain after fertilizing your grass will only wash it away.

Thus, don’t let downpour wash your fertilizer. Avoid applying fertilizer after a heavy rainstorm as many nutrients may leach into the soil. You can also consider using slow-release fertilizer, which will provide nutrients in the long run.

If you are using fast-release fertilizer, apply small amounts, and more frequently, too much of it can also burn your lawn. Also, make sure the grass blades are completely dry before applying fertilizer to ensure that the fertilizer does not burn your grass.

4. Not Aerating The Lawn Prior Fertilizer Application

Lawn fertilizer should be applied to well-aerated soil.

Your lawn will benefit from soil aeration, which literally creates holes in the soil. These holes allow the fertilizer and air to reach the grass root system.

To aerate your lawn soil, you can use a core aerator that simply pulls lawn soil plugs. If you have a small lawn, you can use digging folk, plunge it into the soil, and you will accomplish the task quickly and inexpensively.

You also need to consider lawn maintenance services like dethatching any dead grass laying over your lawn. You can dethatch by using a lawn rake.

Finally, the fertilizer application will be effective since the soil is already aerated.

5. Overwatering After Fertilizer Application

Well, you need to water the lawn after applying fertilizer.

Watering will keep water off the blades and protect them from burning. Additionally, water will help the fertilizer from sinking into the soil and start working.

However, overwatering your grass will cause water to pool on the surface. Too much water will also wash away nutrients and even drown your grass. It will also prevent your soil from taking in air and thus promote a shallow root system.

So, after applying fertilizer, you should just apply enough water to soak the soil about 5 inches.

6. Bad Timing

Do you know when to fertilize grass?

The fertilizer application should be determined by the kind of grass you have. For instance, if you have warm-season grass, common in southern regions, you should apply fertilizer during late spring or early summer.

If you have cool-season grass like bluegrass, you should apply fertilizer in early fall. This is usually in October or November, just before the grass starts to discolor with cold weather’s arrival. The feeding will also be helpful for quick green-up in spring.

Also, avoid fertilizing your lawn during the hottest part of summer; that is the time your lawn should be thriving. Check with your local garden center to know the proper fertilizer application time.

7. Not Rotating Active Ingredients

When you use a specific type of fertilizer for a lengthy period, your grass will get used to the active ingredients. It will then develop some resistance and will not respond to its application.

Thus, sometimes you can consider using natural nitrogen sources like clover, which can convert nitrogen in the air into nitrogen nutrients for grassroots. Clover also resists common diseases and pests like lawn grubs.

Avoid Grass Fertilizer Application Mistakes

You must follow the right strategies when applying grass fertilizer. This will ensure you get more effective results and avoid ruing your lawn. However, you can still seek the help of a lawn care company to ensure you have all the information you need.

One Two Tree is a company you can trust to keep your lawn and trees healthy. We have over 30 years of experience maintaining trees’ lawns and controlling pests in Florida. We strive to use the most eco-friendly and effective solutions to keep your lawn green.

Contact us today to get a free quote.

Scroll to Top