FORGETTING TO FERTILIZE YOUR LAWN IN THE FALL COULD LEAD TO A SURPRISE THIS SPRING

Kalamazoo, Mich.- Summer is nearing its end. Soon boats and docks will be making their way back into storage, and we will begin to brace ourselves for six months of cold weather. As we prepare for winter, keep in mind that your lawn also needs help. Proper lawn care year-round can help decrease your water usage and improve the quality of your lawn and garden.

Depending on your commitment level, choose a fertilizer program that works best for you. What type of lawn are you looking for? In order to know what your lawn requires, a soil sample should first be taken. Typically, a lawn requires 1 pound of Nitrogen per 1,000 square feet; however, knowing which nutrients and how much of each your grass specifically requires will save you time and money. Soil samples are easy to take, and can be sent to the MSU soil lab through your local MSU Extension office.

By continuing your fertilizer schedule into the fall, your turfgrass will have stronger roots to survive the winter. One application in the fall will lead to a lawn in the spring with fewer bare patches, denser turf, and stronger root systems for the warm weather. Applications at the correct rate should be made between Labor Day and the end of October. To remember when to fertilize year-round, just think of the three major holidays from May to September; Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day. Also keep in mind that applying fertilizer before a heavy rain or during a hot day will decrease the chances of turfgrass taking in essential nutrients, so always watch the weather.

For more information regarding proper lawn care practices and the environment, please contact Melanie Stoughton at 383-6429 or email at szewczy5@msu.edu. If you would like more detailed information about fertilizer schedules and other turfgrass research, check out Michigan State University’s Turfgrass Science Program at www.turf.msu.edu. To submit your soil for testing through the Kalamazoo County MSU Extension office, visit www.kalcounty.com/msue for soil sample instructions and fees.

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MSU Extension is an Affirmative-Action Equal-Opportunity Institution. Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, or family status.

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