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How to Choose the Right Fertilizer for Your Lawn

Understanding NPK ratios and choosing the perfect fertilizer for your grass type.

Grandpa RonApril 2, 20246 min read31 views
How to Choose the Right Fertilizer for Your Lawn
FertilizingProfessional TipsBeginner

# How to Choose the Right Fertilizer for Your Lawn

Fertilizer is essential for a healthy lawn, but with so many options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Let's break it down.

Understanding NPK Ratios

Every fertilizer has three numbers on the bag (like 10-10-10 or 20-5-10). These represent:

  • **N (Nitrogen)**: Promotes green, leafy growth
  • **P (Phosphorus)**: Supports root development
  • **K (Potassium)**: Helps with overall plant health and stress resistance

    • Types of Fertilizer

    Quick-Release (Synthetic)

  • Fast results
  • Lower cost
  • Requires more frequent applications
  • Risk of burning lawn if over-applied

    • Slow-Release (Controlled)

  • Steady feeding over 6-12 weeks
  • Less risk of burning
  • More convenient - fewer applications needed

    • Organic

  • Improves soil structure over time
  • Environmentally friendly
  • Takes longer to see results
  • Often more expensive

    • When to Fertilize

    | Season | Goal | Recommended NPK |

    |--------|------|-----------------|

    | Spring | Green up | Higher nitrogen (25-5-10) |

    | Summer | Maintenance | Balanced (10-10-10) |

    | Fall | Root growth | Higher phosphorus (10-20-10) |

    Tips for Application

  • Always water your lawn before and after fertilizing
  • Apply in the morning or evening to avoid burning
  • Use a spreader for even coverage
  • Follow package directions - more is not better!

    • ---

    *Not sure what your lawn needs? Our experts can help! Schedule a free lawn assessment today.*

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