Fertilization & Aeration

The first application of fertilizer can be made from mid-to-late March, or more simply, when the lawn begins to green. Apply a good lawn fertilizer with approximately one pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. Apply fertilizer at least four times a year. A fungicide application at this time can help prevent lawn diseases, which occur later in the summer. Also, a pre-emergent weed control can be applied from late March to early May, or in late fall. This should be done before the germination of weeds such as crabgrass. Complete your lawn raking before applying a pre-emergent as raking after the application may disturb the chemical barrier created by the pre-emergent. Fertilize. Lush, fast-growing grass uses more water. Consider applying iron fertilizers moderately. Reduce nitrogen application rates. Fertilize in summer with a slow-release fertilizer and in fall at the rate suggested on the product label.

Aeration is an important part of healthy lawn maintenance, because it relieves soil compaction and allows better water, air and fertilizer penetration. The result is less water run-off and better plant health. Aerate in the spring and fall under moderate moisture conditions for best results.