As summer winds down and the heat of August takes its toll, your lawn might require extra care to prepare it for the cooler months ahead. Proper fertilizer applications can promote strong grass root growth that boosts its health into the fall, and gives it the strength it needs to pull through the winter months.
Late-summer fertilizing starts with understanding the specific needs of your grass. With the right approach, a little fertilizer can help you have a vibrant lawn right through the end of the season.
Start by Considering Your Lawn's Needs
- A soil test will determine the pH level and nutrient needs of your lawn. Testing the levels will help you choose the right fertilizer and make any necessary soil amendments.
- Remember: Different types of grass have varying nutrient requirements. Cool-season grasses (like fescue and bluegrass) and warm-season grasses (like Bermudagrass and zoysia) benefit differently from summer fertilization. Understanding your grass type will help you select the right types of fertilizer for your late summer lawn care program.
Then, Choose the Right Fertilizer
- Consider a late-summer formula. Select a fertilizer specifically designed for late summer application. Fertilizers for summer often have a ratio like 4-1-2 or 3-1-2, which provides essential nutrients without excessive nitrogen. The right mix supports root growth and overall lawn health without promoting too much top growth, which can be detrimental in the heat.
- We like a slow-release nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Opt for a fertilizer with slow-release nitrogen to ensure a steady supply of nutrients over time. Slow-release formulas minimize the risk of burning your grass and help maintain consistent growth and color throughout the month.
Prepare Your Lawn and Apply the Fertilizer
- Mow the lawn. Cut the grass to a medium height, and then make sure the grass is dry before applying fertilizer. This will help the vital nutrients reach the soil surface more effectively.
- Clear grass clippings, leaves, and sticks. Remove any debris to support optimal nutrient absorption.
- Spread the fertilizer evenly. Whether you're applying granular fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer, focus on even application. A broadcast spreader helps. Overlapping your passes slightly can help ensure thorough coverage and healthy growth, but be sure to consider the manufacturer's recommendation because there are side effects to over-fertilization, too. You want consistent coverage to prevent patchy growth and a uniform appearance.
Water the Lawn Immediately (and Regularly)
- Your initial watering after fertilization. To get a lush lawn, you'll need to soak those nutrients into the soil. Saturating the ground also prevents the fertilizer from burning the green grass. It'll activate the fertilizer and begin the nutrient uptake process.
- Don't forget to keep watering. A consistent watering schedule will keep the lawn hydrated, especially during the hot August days, but keep in mind that deep watering encourages deeper root growth. Deeper roots will strengthens your lawn’s resilience.
Monitor for Success and Adapt if Needed
- Watch for results. Monitor your lawn and see how it responds to your fertilizer choice. Healthy grass should show improved color and active growth. Keep an eye out for any signs of stress or over-fertilization, such as yellowing or burnt patches.
- Adjust as needed. Continue with regular mowing, watering, and maintenance to support the health of your lawn as it transitions into fall and dormancy. Adjust your mowing height and frequency based on your grass type and growth rate.
Additional Summer Lawn Care Tips
- Aeration: If your lawn suffers from soil compaction, consider aerating before fertilizing. Removing plugs of soil helps improve soil structure, increases nutrient uptake, and promotes healthier root growth.
- Weed Control: Keep an eye on weeds, including crabgrass and broadleaf weeds as they'll compete for nutrients and water. Applying a weed control product or manually removing weeds helps.
- Resist Over-Fertilization: More isn’t always better. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive growth, thatch buildup, and increased susceptibility to diseases and pests. Stick to the recommended application rates for the best results.
- Fertilizer Storage: Store any unused fertilizer in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Proper storage ensures that the fertilizer remains effective for future use.
FAQs
Why is it important to fertilize my lawn in August?
August is an ideal time to replenish nutrients lost during the hot summer months and prepare your grass for the cooler fall weather. This timing promotes strong root growth and overall resilience, ensuring a lush and healthy lawn heading into the next season. August fertilization also helps your grass recover from summer stress and maintain its vigor through the early fall.
Can I use any fertilizer I have left over from spring?
It's best to use a fertilizer specifically formulated for late summer. Spring fertilizers often contain higher nitrogen levels, which can promote excessive growth and stress your lawn in the heat. Late-summer fertilizers have a balanced nutrient ratio suitable for the season's needs.
How can I tell if my lawn needs fertilization in August?
Look for signs of nutrient deficiency such as yellowing grass plants, slow growth, or thinning areas. A soil pH test can provide precise information about your lawn’s nutrient levels and needs. If your lawn looks stressed from the summer heat, fertilization can help rejuvenate it, strengthen the root system, and prepare it for fall.
