The turfgrass around your home is responsible for many necessary functions. It creates more oxygen-rich air, reduces runoff, and prevents soil erosion. To help the turfgrass continue to play this role, you need to perform regular maintenance. Luckily, the below guide will help you with adding turf fertilizer and other essential care steps. 

How to Care for Turfgrass

1. Use Nitrogen-Rich Turf Fertilizer

Proper fertilization helps grow lush turf that resists pests and environmental stresses. Start by selecting a complete turf fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Look specifically for a mixture that has a higher ratio of nitrogen. Nitrogen is essential for growth and is a major component of chlorophyll—a compound that allows the grass to use sunlight to make energy and amino acids. Without it, the turf would wither and die. 

2. Water Deeply 

The lawn needs at the minimum one to one-and-a-half inches of water each week, even during the winter. Instead of watering for a few minutes each day, schedule the irrigation system to run for 20 to 30 minutes two to three times a week. This will allow the root system to grow deeper and stronger, making it more drought resistant. 

3. Aerate the Soil

You need to make sure that the turf fertilizer, water, and air can adequately penetrate the ground to reach the roots—which means you should aerate the lawn. This process breaks up solid particles and allows nutrients to be absorbed. Aerate at least once a year, preferably in the spring or fall. This is when the grass is still growing and can fill in spotty areas. However, if the lawn gets a lot of use or is prone to drying out, consider aerating it only a couple times. 

When you need assistance taking care of your lawn, turn to Nelson Plant Food for all of your turf fertilizer needs. For over 35 years, they have provided plant and garden fertilizer and plant food products to Bellville, TX, and independently owned businesses throughout the Southwest. Their scientifically-balanced ingredients provide the best nutritional value for your lawn, and their knowledgeable sales team will help you select the right products to solve your unique problems. Speak to them today by calling (979) 865-8596 or visit their website to find a local retailer.