INTEND to fertilize in the fall

When the weather gets cooler (between 55 and 65 degrees), your lawn concentrates on growing new roots and grass plants. Fall is the best time to apply fertilizer, so you’ll have strong roots and more shoots in spring.

Most homeowners focus on the traditional springtime fertilizer application. Early spring applications of nitrogen cause a surge of top growth in the plants. This makes the lawn look nice in the spring, but it actually depletes the plants’ energy reserves.  This causes the grass to weaken, making it less likely to survive periods of stress in the summer. Plus, you’re creating more work with increased mowing.

Applying fertilizer in early September will give your lawn adequate nutrition to overcome any summer stresses. In addition, an application in late October or early November will ensure earlier green-up in the spring without stimulating excessive shoot growth.

Check out our fertilizer chart for detailed recommendations on when to apply fertilizer.