I have been told I need to fertilize my yard in Sep/Oct and again in Nov. What type fertilizer should I use as it relates to the Nitrogen/Phosphorus/Potassium content.
Thanks - Bill
Today's Photo
Tip of the Week: Fertilize lawn now before winter slumber
Click here for gardening help from Dennis Patton, Horticulture Agent.
November: November Garden Calendar
Fertilizer types and when
Extension recommends a September and November application of fertilizer for a healthy bluegrass and tall fescue lawn.
What type of fertilizer to use depends on the results of a soil test. If no soil test then use nitrogen sources of fertilizer with low or no P and K both times. Examples would be 27-3-3 or 25-5-5 or 30-3-3. P and K are only added when a soil test indicates the need.
Hope that helps. I have yet to do my September application but will do this weekend and then again in mid-November.
Dennis - Johnson County Extension
Yep, what Dennis said...
...but use a quick release nitrogen. Get the nitrogen to the roots right away so the turf can begin building its roots and tillers (the little nubs for new grass blades) for next spring's growth. The turf will continue to develop underground until the ground freezes, even after the grass stops growing, so get that nitrogen into the soil now and in November for a beautiful greenup next spring. We apply at a rate of 1 to 1.5 pounds of nitrogen (not fertilizer) per 1000 square feet. So if a 50# bag has 50% nitrogen, it contains 25# of nitrogen. And cheap works well here -- we use a urea fertilizer for our last application in November. Just be careful to not overapply it and to not use it on newly sprouted grass, as it can burn.