Requirements for New Sod Fertilizers

Starter Fertilizers Types

• Numerous types of starter fertilizers are available that have different NPK percentages. NPK stands for nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. You can look at the label of your fertilizer back to get an idea of the percentage in the fertilizer. Gardeners may distribute 20 lbs. of starter fertilizer that has a NPK amount of 5-10-5 or 5-20-10 per 1,000 square feet, according to the University of California. You can also spread 6 lbs. of a starter fertilizer that has a NPK amount of 16-20-0 per 1,000 square feet.

Starter Fertilizer Application

• Starter fertilizer must be spread after the weeds have been removed from the lawn. Fertilizer spread over weeds will give you an awful weed problem by the time you install your sod. Distribute the fertilizer over the lawn using a rotary fertilizer spreader. Till the fertilizer into the first 2 to 4 inches of topsoil, as suggested by the University of California. Plan to install sod as soon as the starter fertilizer has been applied to prevent weed growth.

Second Fertilizer Types

• A second application of fertilizer should be applied after the sod has been installed that has a higher percentage of nitrogen. A complete fertilizer will give your new sod the nutrients it needs without encouraging a flush of new growth. Grass can become stressed when it has been given too much nitrogen. Stressed out lawns are more susceptible to fungal diseases and pests. Use a fertilizer that has a NPK amount of 2-1-1 or 4-1-3, as recommended by the University of Rhode Island.

How to Fertilize

• Spread your fertilizer at a rate of 1 lb. of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet, according to the University of Rhode Island. Pour half of the amount you need into a rotary spreader and apply horizontally over the lawn. Fill the spreader with the rest of the amount and apply vertically over the lawn in order to achieve an even spread. Water the lawn after spreading the fertilizer so that it is absorbed into the soil.