Use our free lawn fertilizer calculator tool to determine the exact amount of fertilizer your lawn needs. Save time, avoid waste, and grow a greener, healthier yard.
Recommendation: Based on your grass type and lawn size, we recommend using a slow-release granular fertilizer for best results.
Calculate exactly how much fertilizer your lawn needs, avoiding waste and ensuring optimal growth.
Tailored recommendations for different grass types to ensure the best results for your lawn.
Get advice on when and how often to fertilize based on your grass type and local climate.
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about lawn fertilization, grass types, and maintaining a healthy yard.
Most lawns benefit from fertilization 3-4 times per year during the growing season. Cool-season grasses should be fertilized in early spring, late spring, early fall, and late fall. Warm-season grasses do best with applications in late spring, early summer, late summer, and early fall. Always follow the specific recommendations for your grass type and local climate conditions.
The ideal time to fertilize your lawn is in the morning, after the dew has dried but before temperatures get too hot. This allows the fertilizer to be absorbed properly without the risk of burning your grass.
Avoid fertilizing during the hottest part of the day or in direct sunlight. If you must fertilize in the afternoon, wait until temperatures begin to cool down.
Signs that your lawn may need fertilizer include:
1. Slow growth or thinning grass
2. Yellowing or pale green color
3. Weeds taking over your lawn
4. Poor recovery after foot traffic or damage
5. Soil test showing nutrient deficiencies
For best results, conduct a soil test every 2-3 years to determine your lawn's specific nutrient needs.
Synthetic fertilizers are chemically manufactured and provide nutrients to plants immediately. They are typically less expensive and offer precise nutrient ratios, but they don't improve soil structure and can cause nutrient runoff if over-applied.
Organic fertilizers are derived from natural sources (plant, animal, or mineral). They release nutrients slowly, improve soil structure over time, and promote microbial activity. However, they are usually more expensive and take longer to show results.
Choosing the right fertilizer depends on your grass type and its specific needs:
Cool-season grasses (Fescue, Bluegrass, Ryegrass) typically need higher nitrogen fertilizers in spring and fall, with a balanced formula in summer.
Warm-season grasses (Bermuda, Zoysia, St. Augustine) benefit from nitrogen-rich fertilizers during their peak growing season (late spring to summer).
Always check the N-P-K ratio (Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium) on fertilizer bags. Nitrogen promotes leaf growth, phosphorus supports root development, and potassium enhances overall plant health.
Yes, watering after fertilizing is generally recommended. Light watering (about 1/4 inch) helps move the fertilizer off grass blades and into the soil where it can be absorbed by roots. This also prevents fertilizer burn on your grass.
However, avoid heavy watering that could cause runoff. The best practice is to fertilize just before a light rain, or water gently if rain isn't expected within 24-48 hours.