Fertilization!
It is smelly, can be very dirty but it is the cheapest and easiest way to impact a lawn.
How do you go about doing this, you ask.
First - Calculate the size of your lawn. For a rectangular space, multiply the length by the width (A=LxW) so a area 50 feet by 60 feet contains 3,000 square feet.
The best time to do this work is early in the morning, while the breeze is light and a dew is heavy on the ground. The spreader leaves tracks in the dewy grass so you can see where you have been - which of course means we highly recommend using a spreader.
Spreaders basically have two options - Drop OR Rotary.
What is the difference?
Drop spreaders are more precise. They are best used if you have areas near where you are fertilizing that you may not want to treat.
Rotary spreaders use what is refered to as a broadcast which allows you to cover a larger path. Be careful to overlap each pass so you don't leave gaps.
NEXT - your going to want to test your soil.
Really you should test your soil about every 3 to 5 years or when you lawn is not looking healthy.
1. Collect several soil samples at different locations in your lawn. Take samples 3 inches deep.
2. Mix all samples and then measure out one cup and send off to testing location.
Soil sample boxes and information sheets are available at your local Cooperation Extension office.
Once you get the test numbers back it might be a little tricky understanding the numbers.
Nitrogen (N) - Boosts growth and green color
Phosphorus (P) - Feeds seedlings and aids root growth.
Potassium (K) - Strengthens resistance to drought and disease
You will want N- 29, P - 4, K - 4.
The best fertilizers are high in nitrogen.
We'll have more next on when and how often to fertilize.
See you next week!
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