Fertilizing 101: Preparing Your Grass For Summer
Getting your lawn to look lush and healthy during peak growing season takes more than just regular mowing. With the right summer lawn fertilizing tips, homeowners in East Brookfield, MA can help their grass thrive through heat, foot traffic, and dry spells. Timing, technique, and the right products all play a role in giving your lawn the boost it needs before the summer sun kicks into high gear.
Know Your Grass Type
Before diving into fertilizers, it’s important to know what kind of grass you’re working with. Cool-season grasses like fescue or Kentucky bluegrass have different needs than warm-season varieties. In the Northeast, cool-season types are most common, and they benefit from a late spring to early summer feeding to maintain color and density through the heat.
Choose the Right Fertilizer
Finding the best fertilizer for summer grass depends on what your lawn needs. A balanced slow-release fertilizer (look for an N-P-K ratio like 10-10-10 or 20-10-10) can feed your lawn gradually without burning it during high temperatures. If your lawn is already healthy, a nitrogen-rich fertilizer can promote growth and green color without overdoing it. Some formulas even include weed prevention to save you time.
How to Fertilize Your Lawn
When it comes to how to fertilize your lawn, there are a few steps to follow. Check out these tips for fertilizing your lawn:
· Mow First: Trim the lawn a day or two before you fertilize so the granules can reach the soil more easily.
· Apply Evenly: Use a spreader to distribute fertilizer across your yard. This helps prevent streaks or patches.
· Water It In: Lightly water your lawn after applying fertilizer to help it soak in and activate. Be careful not to overwater, especially during hot weeks.
· Avoid Heatwaves: Try to fertilize when the weather is mild. Fertilizing during extreme heat can stress your grass and waste product.
Lawn Care for Summer Heat
Keeping your lawn healthy through the summer isn’t just about fertilizing—it’s about overall care. Proper lawn care for summer heat includes mowing high (around 3 inches), watering deeply but infrequently, and avoiding over-fertilization. Overfeeding your lawn can cause quick growth that’s more vulnerable to drought and pests.
If you notice bare spots or uneven growth, a soil test can help identify nutrient deficiencies or pH imbalances. Early summer is also a good time to spot-treat weeds and monitor for insect damage before issues get out of hand.
Keep It Green With Howe Lumber
From choosing the best fertilizer for summer grass to finding the right spreaders and tools, Howe Lumber has what you need for grass maintenance for summer. We’re here to help you prep, feed, and care for your lawn so it stays green and strong all season long. Stop by our East Brookfield, MA location for trusted products and friendly advice—your lawn will thank you.