Don’t fall behind, jump start! Fall fertilization benefits extend throughout the year by strengthening your plant and lawn roots. Giving them a strong base in the fall to thrive in the spring is as important as planting the initial seed.
Early in September, the grass is recovering from a long, hot summer and maybe coming out of a drought-induced dormancy. While a September dose of fertilizer is important, an application at the end of October or early November is essential.
The final lawn fertilizer application should be made when the grass stops growing but before the ground freezes. Proper timing is essential—if applied too early, your lawn can become susceptible to disease and injury from winter weather.
Roots continue to grow even after evidence of top growth comes to a halt. These roots continue to utilize the available nutrients to enhance growth and to become more resistant to disease and drought.
In addition to fertilizing your lawn, perennials, shrubs, and trees also need fertilization before winter sets in to help promote root growth. These nutrients will still be in the soil in the spring when plants start to grow. If you have a tree or shrub that does not flower well, this could make all the difference.
As you can tell, the basic goal of fall fertilizing is to promote root growth. When you have strong roots, you have healthy plants producing numerous flowers and grass that grows lush, green, and healthy.
Fertilizing can be confusing—what plant needs what, when does it need it, and which type should be used. These are all common questions. At Epling Landscaping and Lawn Services, Inc., we’ll make sure all fertilization is done the right way at the right time, so you don’t need to worry.
