When should I fertilize my lawn?

To ensure optimal health, fertilize heavily in the fall and lightly in early spring. You can choose either slow- or quick-release fertilizer types, but be sure to apply the treatment before the temperatures peak in summer and/or dip in winter when grasses will most likely go dormant.  

Even though it's lighter, spring fertilization is still key. Winter is like a long slumber for lawns, and in the spring they wake up hungry. Fertilizing your lawn in the early Spring (February -April) strengthens the root system and gives the grass a healthy start before the heavy growing season.

If you see crabgrass, apply a combination fertilizer with a pre-emergent selective herbicide to control it. In late spring (April -June), the grass is busy growing and using up stored energy, which requires a fertilizer designed for this time of year. However, broadleaf weeds are growing as well, so you may want to combine fertilizer applications with broadleaf weed control (click here to learn why SoilKit does not recommend “weed-n-feed” products).

Feeding your lawn just once a year will improve its condition, but feeding it on a regular annual/semiannual schedule will make it even healthier. To ensure you know exactly WHAT to feed your lawn, make sure you test your soil with SoilKit.