Spring finds many homeowners looking forward to enjoying a beautiful lawn. Routine maintenance, including raking leaves and dead grass, help it look its best. Fertilization should also be on the lawn care to-do list. Having your lawn fertilized keeps it thick and healthy, which suppresses weed growth. The following brief guide provides answers to common questions about the fertilization process. 

A Brief Guide to Lawn Fertilization 

What do the numbers on fertilizer bags indicate?

The numbers on fertilizers indicate the percentages of nitrogen, phosphate, and potash they contain, respectively. The type of product used should be based on the chemical makeup of your soil. You can purchase a soil test kit from a garden center or check with your local county extension office, as they may offer this service. 

Must I water the lawn after it's been fertilized?

It's best to water the turf a few days before fertilization, as the moisture will hydrate the soil and help the fertilizer seep into the ground evenly. Irrigate immediately after fertilization, too, ensuring nutrients in the fertilizer reach the roots, making fertilization highly effective.

How often should a lawn be fertilized?

While timing depends on the region and growing conditions, generally cool- and warm-season turfgrass should be fertilized every four to six weeks during ideal growing conditions. For example, cool-season varieties grow best when soil temperatures range from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, making spring the perfect time to schedule fertilizer applications, ensuring deep roots are strong and healthy going into summer. Warm-season grasses should be fertilized in hot, dry conditions when temperatures are between 80 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Fertilizing in fall adds nutrients to the soil to prepare lawns for winter dormancy. Each yard is different, and many factors, including a lawn's health and growing conditions, contribute to a proper fertilization schedule. Consulting with a local lawn care professional will ensure optimal results for your turf. 

Is it possible to over-fertilize the turf?

While fertilization is beneficial, it is possible to apply too much, damaging the root system of turfgrass. That's because fertilizer contains nitrogen, which causes roots to lose water when high levels are absorbed. The element also leaves behind salt that further dehydrates roots. Without enough water flowing through the grass, blades will turn yellow and wilt.

Ensure your Northern California turfgrass is adequately fertilized by relying on the professionals at Lawn Doctor of Walnut Creek-Concord. Serving clients in Contra Costa County for over 45 years, the knowledgeable staff provides fertilization to help grass thrive and aeration and weed control to keep the turf in top condition year-round. Visit them online to learn about their lawn maintainer program, or call (925) 294-0333 to start a lawn fertilization schedule.