Wait to Fertilize Grass in the Spring

As the temperatures rise and the signs of spring emerge, many homeowners are eager to jumpstart their lawn care routine. One common mistake that is often made is applying the first round of fertilizer too early in the season. Getting a head start on achieving that lush green lawn may certainly be tempting. However, there are several good reasons to exercise patience and wait to fertilizer grass in the spring.

Here are four specific reasons to wait to fertilize grass in the spring so that they are not applied prematurely:

#1. Environmental Impact

When the ground is still frozen or the soil is too wet, applying fertilizer granules or sprays can lead to runoff. This runoff can carry excess nutrients into nearby waterways, causing pollution and harm to the environment. Wait for the ground to thaw and dry out first. In doing so, you can ensure that the fertilizer is effectively absorbed by the soil and your grass, minimizing environmental impact.

#2. Optimal Absorption:

Applying fertilizer to grass that is still dormant is a waste of money and resources. Whether you are using immediate release or slow-release nitrogen fertilizers, the nutrients will expire before the grass has a chance to absorb them. Wait for the grass to fully wake up and start growing to ensure that the fertilizer is utilized efficiently, maximizing its benefits for your lawn.

#3. Winterizer Effects:

If you applied a winterizer fertilizer treatment in the fall, rest assured that your lawn is still being nourished during the spring months. The nutrients from the winterizer treatment are stored in the grass roots. This winterizer is what is providing a steady supply of nourishment until the grass enters its active growth phase. When you wait to fertilize grass in the spring, it gives the existing nutrients more time to benefit your lawn.

#4. Lawn Preparation:

Before applying springtime fertilizer, it is essential to address other maintenance tasks such as lawn rolling, aerating, dethatching, and spring cleanup. These activities are crucial for preparing the soil and grass to receive the fertilizer effectively. Be sure to give yourself extra time to complete these tasks, so that you can set the stage for successful fertilization and overall lawn health.

For best practices, you should wait to fertilize grass in the spring to provide the opportunity for more effective results and a healthier lawn. By considering these four reasons to delay your treatment, you can make informed decisions that benefit both your lawn and the environment. Remember, good things come to those who wait – including a vibrant and thriving green lawn.