Lawn Care Programs

Application Times

• A lawn care program includes fertilizer applications during the course of the year. Lawns benefit from fertilization once in August or September and then again in October, November or December. A light application can be applied in the spring, but over fertilization can harm more than help.

Nitrogen

• Plants require nitrogen to make chlorophyll, proteins, enzymes and amino acids. In lawn care, nitrogen promotes dense, thick lawns in a rich, green color. Water-soluble nitrogen is a quick-release nitrogen; it produces rapid growth that requires frequent lawn mowing. Slow-release nitrogen spreads growth over a longer period. Ideal nitrogen fertilizer contains both forms.

Soil Care

• Prime watering time is in the early morning hours when evaporation is less of an issue. During dry, hot spells, the soil requires approximately 1 inch of water per week to avoid the dormant stage. Leave the sprinkler in one spot for one to two hours to allow the soil to soak moisture to a depth of 6 to 8 inches. Aerate the turf, which removes plugs of grass and soil to allow air to reach the roots. Clay soil benefits from aeration twice a year, in spring and fall; other soil types need only fall aeration.