Fertilization is the key to making your yard a vibrant green space which makes your property presentable and inviting. Not only will fertilizing your lawn keep the grass healthy and attractive, but it will improve its resistance to disease and discourage weed growth. If you’re new to lawn care or interested in how fertilizers can benefit your property, have a look at the guide below for more information on the fertilizing process and whether your lawn needs it.

What Are Common Types of Fertilizer?

A fertilizer is any substance that supplies nutrients to your grass or other vegetation, but all consist of three primary ingredients: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Nitrogen promotes a healthy color and rapid growth, potassium enhances grass’ overall health and protects it from drought, cold, and disease, and phosphorus contributes to healthy root development.

Synthetic fertilizers typically come in liquid or granular forms. Liquid fertilizer can be applied in small amounts with the use of a handheld or backpack-mounted spray nozzle. More affordable fertilizers are called “all-mineral,” which release their nutrient content at the same rate and should be applied minimally to avoid harming grass.

Organic fertilizers include manure from animals such as chickens or cattle, as well as premium nitrogen-rich bat guano. Some forms of yard waste, such as grass clippings and mulched bark, can be affordable fertilizers, as can composted food waste.

What Are the Signs Your Lawn Needs Fertilization?

One of the most common signs of a lawn needing fertilization is yellow or yellow-green grass and slow or sparse growth. Applying a quick-greening fertilizer to the area should restore the grass to a healthy green. Alternatively, your grass may have a phosphorus deficiency, which will change its color from blue-green to purple or reddish hues. Add a phosphorus-rich fertilizer such as manure, hair, vegetable or mushroom compost, or bone meal to correct the issue.

Other indications of a need for fertilization are to do with fungal issues. For example, rust, a common fungal disease, can result in a reddish discoloration, small bumps on blades of grass, and eventual death. You may also notice fairy rings, patches of yellow, or dead grass occasionally surrounded by mushrooms. You can resolve these problems by aerating the lawn, allowing it to dry, and adding a nitrogen-rich fertilizer.

If your lawn needs fertilization, get in touch with the team at Kozy Lawn Care in Omaha, NE. This local company has provided first-rate lawn services to area residents and businesses since 1987, drawing on extensive experience and knowledge of the local climate to ensure lawns stay vibrant, healthy, and attractive. Call (402) 455-5296 to schedule a visit or find out more about their services online.