Lawn fertilizer provides the nutrients your grass and groundcovers need to grow and fight diseases. A professional lawn fertilizer service can use soil testing and visual inspection to determine the health of your grass, allowing them to customize a fertilizer program for your yard. Here are several different types of services and programs available for lawn fertilization:
Seasonal Fertilizer Programs
A seasonal fertilization program is a comprehensive service that addresses your turf’s yearly needs. It is designed to meet the specific nutritional needs of plants at different stages of their growth throughout the year. Fertilizer can be applied in several steps throughout the season, depending on the climate, grass type, and nutrient needs. Cool-season grasses benefit from early spring and fall fertilization, while warm-season grasses benefit from late spring and early summer applications. Here are some of the applications included in a seasonal lawn fertilizer service:
Spring Applications
Spring applications occur early in the year to promote vigorous early-season growth and support the development of new shoots, leaves, and roots. They can help plants build nutrient reserves to be utilized during periods of increased stress, such as hot summer months. Spring application also includes post-emergent weed control to address weeds that begin to grow following fertilizer application.
Summer Applications
Summer fertilizer applications are designed to sustain healthy plant growth during the peak of the growing season. The primary goals of summer fertilization include maintaining overall plant health, supporting flowering and fruiting, and addressing potential nutrient deficiencies. Summer often brings environmental stress factors such as heat, drought, and increased pest activity. Fertilization supports plants in coping with stress and helps maintain their ability to resist diseases and pests.
Fall Applications
Fall applications focus on preparing plants for winter, strengthening root systems, and making sure they have sufficient nutrients for the following growing season. They take place as lawns begin to enter dormancy, slowing down their active growth. This service can also include aeration and overseeding to encourage deeper roots and a fuller lawn.
Winterization
Winterization helps promote resilience during cold weather. It is typically performed in late fall or early winter before the ground freezes. Regular monitoring, soil testing, and adjustments to fertilizer formulations contribute to the success of winterization efforts, promoting plant health and vitality during the dormant period.
Custom Fertilizer Programs
Custom fertilizer programs involve conducting soil testing to determine your lawn’s existing nutrient levels and deficiencies. This information helps lawn care professionals formulate their fertilizer recommendations. Different plants and grasses have varied nutrient requirements. Customized fertilizer programs are adjusted based on the type of crops, ornamental plants, or turfgrass being cultivated. Local climate conditions, including temperature, rainfall, and sunlight, influence plant growth. Fertilizer programs may be adjusted in response to weather patterns. Following a custom fertilizer program also helps avoid using too much or too little fertilizer, promoting a balanced and healthy lawn.
Organic Fertilizer Programs
Organic lawn programs are weed-and-feed services that combine organic-based fertilizer with traditional herbicides. The program allows you to boost organic matter content in your turf and keep weeds away. These lawn programs are suitable for turfs with poor soil structure. The program can rebuild soil structure without using synthetic fertilizers. Choosing organic fertilizers helps to reduce your lawn’s dependency on chemical input.
Herbicide-free Fertilizer Programs
Organic and herbicide-free programs utilize organic fertilizers only. Eliminating traditional herbicides allows you to minimize chemicals added to your lawn. Herbicide-free programs are ideal if your turf doesn’t have persistent weeds choking your grass and flowers. You can also opt for the program if chemical sensitivity is an issue for your lawn or family. Naturally organic and herbicide-free lawn programs can be part of a seasonal and customized fertilization plan.
Hire a Professional Lawn Fertilizer Service
Maintaining a healthy, green lawn often requires professional services and carefully selected fertilizers. State-certified fertilizer applicators can help with soil testing and treatment, pest and weed control, lawn maintenance, and other services. Contact a professional lawn fertilizer service today to learn more about their fertilization programs.