As summer winds down, you might be wondering if it’s worth giving your lawn a final boost. Your mind might not be focused on lawn food as we inch closer fall, but September is an important month when it comes to transitioning our lawn — especially those with warm-season grasses. The right fertilization strategy can set your lawn up for a robust fall and prevent winter injury.
Start by evaluating your lawn's current condition. Look for signs of stress or nutrient deficiencies, such as yellowing grass, slow growth, or thinning patches. A soil test can also provide valuable insights into pH levels and nutrient needs, helping you select the appropriate fertilizer.
When it comes to fertilizer, opt for a product that supports the transition from summer to fall. Look for a balanced formula or one with a higher potassium content. Potassium helps strengthen your lawn's root system and enhances its resilience against cooler temperatures and potential winter stress. Lots of nitrogen? Even slow-release nitrogen could be doing more harm than good as we transition into a cooler weather forecast (but we do love nitrogen for late spring fertilization).
Start By Preparing Your Lawn
Before applying fertilizer, make sure your lawn is in good shape:
- Mow the grass. Keep it at a medium height to ensure the fertilizer reaches the soil.
- Clear debris that might prevent essential nutrients from reaching the grass root. Remove leaves, sticks, and grass clippings to prevent interference with nutrient absorption.
Then, Apply the Fertilizer
- Timing matters. The best time for lawn fertilization is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Avoid fertilizing during the hottest part of the day to prevent potential burning of the grass due to intense sunlight and high temperatures. Morning applications allow the fertilizer to settle before the heat of the day, while late afternoon applications give the fertilizer time to absorb before evening dew or rain.
- Pay attention to the application rate. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the amount of fertilizer to use, typically measured in pounds per 1,000 square feet. A common dose for lawns is to apply around 1 to 1.5 pounds of fertilizer per 1,000 square feet, but this can vary depending on the specific product and your grass type. Accurate measurement is crucial to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive growth, thatch buildup, and increased susceptibility to diseases and pests.
- Weather conditions matter — choose a calm, dry day for fertilizer application. Apply lawn fertilizer in the late summer when the weather is calm and dry. This helps ensure that the fertilizer stays where you apply it rather than being washed away by rain or blown away by wind. Ideally, you should apply it before a light rain or when rain is expected within a day or two. This will help the nutrients penetrate the soil and reduce the risk of burning your grass. Avoid applying extra lawn fertilizer before a heavy rain to prevent runoff and potential nutrient loss.
- Focus on achieving an even application. Use a broadcast spreader for even coverage. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to issues like excessive growth or disease susceptibility.
Water the Lawn, and Monitor the Results
- Make sure you water the lawn thoroughly after fertilizing. After application, water your green grass deeply. This helps the fertilizer penetrate the soil and prevents burning your grass.
- See how your lawn reacts for a few days. Watch how your lawn responds to the September feeding. Healthy grass should show improved color and vigor. Adjust your watering and mowing routine based on your lawn's needs and growth patterns.
- Consider soil aeration. If your lawn has compacted soil, fall is a good time for aeration. It enhances nutrient absorption and root growth.
Additional Tips For Your September Lawn
- Water your lawn only when necessary. "An easy way to check if your lawn needs water is to walk on the grass; if your footsteps leave prints, it's time to water," recommends Ruben Rodriguez, Senior Director, External Communications at American Water.
- Practice weed management. Keep an eye on weeds that might compete for nutrients. Manual removal or targeted weed control can help.
- Don't cut your grass too short. Keep the lawn mower on a higher setting.
- Avoid over-fertilizing. Stick to recommended application rates to prevent problems like thatch buildup and increased pest issues.
- Store the leftover fertilizer properly. Keep any leftover granular fertilizer in a cool, dry place to maintain its effectiveness for future use.
FAQ
Why is fertilizing my lawn in September important?
Fertilizing in September helps your lawn recover from summer stress and prepares it for the fall and winter months. It supports strong root growth and disease resistance and ensures a healthy lawn as temperatures cool.
Can I use leftover spring fertilizer for September feeding?
Spring fertilizers typically have higher nitrogen levels, which might not be ideal for September. Choose a late-season formula that meets the current needs of your lawn.
How can I tell if my lawn needs fertilization in September?
Signs of stress or nutrient deficiencies, such as yellowing grass or slow growth, indicate that your lawn care program might be failing. In that case, consider a fall lawn feeding. If you want to get more granular with the issues in your soil, a soil test can also provide precise information on your lawn’s nutrient needs.
