VERIFY how much fertilizer you need and how to apply it

Don’t use more fertilizer than necessary for the size of your yard. Too much fertilizer can weaken your lawn, making it more susceptible to pests, weeds, and disease. Be certain to read the instructions. Make sure you know what you’ve purchased and how and when to apply it. 

Getting started

First, carefully measure your yard to determine its square footage to avoid purchasing and applying too much fertilizer. You should apply three pounds or less of nitrogen to your lawn yearly, no more than one pound per application. This is a general guide. Your soil test results will tell you precisely what your lawn needs. 

Selecting fertilizer

When selecting fertilizer, you’ll find three numbers on the bag: the first number is the percentage of Nitrogen (N), the middle is Phosphorous (P), and the third is Potassium or Potash (K). Select a fertilizer that has no phosphorus unless your soil test recommends it. Many states are passing laws restricting the application of phosphorus fertilizer due to concerns about the impacts of excessive phosphorus in our waterways. 

Select a fertilizer that contains 50% or more nitrogen in a slow-release form. Slow-release nitrogen lasts longer, providing a steady supply of nutrition throughout the growing season. This information is in the “Guaranteed Analysis” section on the back of the bag.

Follow the steps in the video below to determine what fertilizer to use.

How and when to apply fertilizer

Most homeowners use a drop or rotary spreader to apply granular fertilizer. While either is sufficient, a rotary spreader is less likely to leave a striped pattern on the lawn showing missed areas. It’s wise to spread each fertilizer application in two directions. Check out our fertilizer chart to learn when to apply fertilizer.