Best way to fertilize my lawn

Home Lawn Fertilization

Early fall is an important time for fertilizing home lawns. Fertilization is one of the primary lawn care practices. If done properly has a major positive impact on lawn appearance, but if done improperly can lead to lawn problems. This month’s Lawn FAQ feature reviews some of the common questions and concerns related to fertilizing home lawns.

• What is the best fertilizer to choose?
• I don't want to burn my grass with high percent nitrogen fertilizer, so can I just use a 10-10-10 garden fertlizer?
• Are organic fertlizers better than conventional fertlizers?
• Are dry fertilizer products better than liquid?
• How do I know how much fertilizer to apply?
• What about weed control and fertilizer products?

Proper fertilization is a major reason this lawn looks healthy.

How exactly do I fertilize my lawn?

There are actually 3 parts to this answer. First, choose a quality fertilizer, then apply the right amount (rate) and apply at the right time of the season. Quality nitrogen fertilizers should contain controlled-release nitrogen (see next question for more on this). The amount or rate of nitrogen to apply is about one pound of actual nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of lawn area (see question below for more on this). Finally, some suggested times in the season for northern Illinois would be early may, early September, and late fall (about Halloween).