How often you need to fertilize your lawn depends on its health. A healthy lawn might only need fertilizing once a year, while one in poor condition could benefit from fertilization every six weeks. Look for signs like poor growth or discoloration to determine if your lawn needs more nutrients.
You can fertilize your lawn right after mowing, and professionals often recommend it. Fertilizing right after a fresh cut gives the fertilizer time to absorb before the next cut or watering. Just make sure to collect any grass clippings before you begin so they don't block the fertilizer from reaching the soil.
Over-fertilizing your lawn can put it at risk of “fertilizer burn.” Too much fertilizer can cause brown or yellow patches to develop, scorch grass blades, and damage the roots. It's important to follow the recommended application rates to keep your lawn healthy. If you’re unsure, contact a local lawn care professional to determine the right amount of fertilizer for your property.
You can use compost instead of fertilizer. Compost adds natural nutrients to your soil and can be used alongside or instead of traditional fertilizers. While fertilizers provide a quick nutrient boost, compost helps build long-term soil health and fertility. Using compost in your lawn is a great way to improve soil health and support strong root growth.