Fertilize lawn

Fertilize your lawn to promote healthy growth and a lush, green appearance.

Why it matters#

Grass needs nutrients that soil alone can't provide. Proper fertilization builds a thick, healthy lawn that crowds out weeds and resists pests and disease.

What you'll need#

Tools#

Broadcast spreader or drop spreader
Measuring cup (for spreader calibration)

Materials#

Lawn fertilizer (select based on season and grass type)
Soil test results (optional but recommended)

Steps#

1. Test your soil (recommended)#

A soil test tells you exactly what nutrients your lawn needs. Skip this and you're guessing.

2. Choose the right fertilizer#

Fertilizer numbers (like 20-5-10) indicate nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium ratios. High nitrogen promotes green growth; phosphorus helps roots; potassium builds stress tolerance.

3. Check the weather#

Apply when rain is expected in the next 24-48 hours, or plan to water after. Don't apply before heavy rain (runoff) or during drought.

4. Mow the lawn first#

Cut the grass a day or two before fertilizing so the fertilizer reaches the soil more easily.

5. Calibrate your spreader#

Set the spreader according to the fertilizer bag's instructions for your spreader type. Each product and spreader combination is different.

6. Fill the spreader#

Pour fertilizer into the spreader on a hard surface (not the lawn) so you can sweep up any spills.

7. Apply in a pattern#

Walk at a steady pace in parallel rows. Use a half-rate in two perpendicular passes for more even coverage.

8. Clean up spills#

Sweep up any fertilizer spilled on sidewalks or driveways—it will stain and can wash into storm drains.

9. Water the lawn#

Water lightly after applying to move fertilizer into the soil and prevent burn.

10. Clean the spreader#

Rinse the spreader thoroughly—fertilizer residue causes corrosion.

Pro tips#

Fertilize cool-season grasses in fall and spring; warm-season grasses in late spring and summer
More isn't better—over-fertilizing burns grass and pollutes waterways
Slow-release fertilizers feed gradually and reduce burn risk
Follow local regulations—some areas restrict fertilizer use near waterways

Warnings#

Keep fertilizer off sidewalks and driveways—sweep immediately if spilled
Don't fertilize dormant or drought-stressed lawns—it won't be absorbed and may damage grass
Water after application to prevent fertilizer burn
Keep children and pets off the lawn until fertilizer is watered in and dry

Consider a lawn care service if: you want a comprehensive program (fertilizing, weed control, pest control), have persistent lawn problems despite fertilizing, or prefer not to handle chemicals. Professional programs typically cost $50-100 per application.