Fall Fertilization Builds Strength For A Stronger Greener Spring Lawn

“The last application of fertilizer is the most important of the year” states John Steiner, central regional manager of NaturaLawn of America.  Fall fertilization is not for the above ground aspect of the lawn.  Steiner notes the application is for building up the food reserves so the grass will go into winter strong and “green up faster in the spring.”  The stored nutrients will also enable the roots of cool-season grasses, like Kentucky bluegrass, Fescue and bentgrass, to get off to a good start.  One suggestion is to not to use the slow release fertilizers that are recommended in spring and summer applications.  Steiner says “it’s important to use a quick-release fertilizer.  At this time of year, the soil is cooler and consequently there’s a lower  level of microbial activity in the soil to break down the fertilizer to enable plants to take in the nutrients.  You want to make the nutrients available the grass right away.”  It is suggested to provide one pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet and quick release fertilizers are usually applied at a higher rate.  Always follow the manufacturer’s instruction and application rates.  Time the nutrient boost just before the lawn goes dormant.  In the northwest region that could be as late as mid- to late November.