After a long winter, spring has finally sprung in northern Indiana. That means lawn fertilization season is upon us. You might wonder if your lawn even needs fertilizer (the answer is yes!) and, if so, how it will impact your yard. We answer those questions, and more, below so that you can gain a thorough understanding of fertilizer's importance to properties in Elkhart, Granger, South Bend, IN, and nearby areas.

Do I really need to fertilize my lawn?

Yes, you really need to fertilize your lawn! Fertilizer provides your lawn with nutrients critical to its health and growth. Without these nutrients, your lawn is more susceptible to weed growth, disease, and pests. It is also unable to fight off drought or disease as effectively. Fertilization enhances your lawn's long-term strength, resiliency, and appearance.

Think of fertilization as an investment in your lawn's future. It's a decision you won't regret.

What is NPK?

NPK refers to the three nutrients that are found in fertilizers: nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. All three play key roles in protecting your lawn and helping it reach its full potential.

  • Nitrogen encourages the production of chlorophyll, which gives grass its green color and increases growth.
  • Phosphorous enables grass to establish a strong root system, positioning it for dense, long-term growth.
  • Potassium improves the resiliency of your grass to withstand fluctuations in the weather and provides it with the strength needed to combat stress, drought, and disease.

Nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium benefit all types of grass and work as a team to maximize your lawn's health and appearance.

When should I expect my first treatment?

We start our fertilizer and weed control treatments in late spring. You will receive an estimate of your fertilization schedule upon signing up for service, but exact application dates could vary depending on the weather. Fertilization treatments usually occur in the late spring, early summer, late summer, early fall, and late fall. The timing and frequency of fertilization will ensure your lawn is at its peak throughout the year. Fertilizer jumpstarts and sustains lawn growth, in addition to preparing it for the winter months.

Is too much or too little fertilizer a bad thing?

Yes, too much fertilizer could burn your grass, turn it brown, and prevent it from absorbing the nutrients its needs to grow strong and healthy. In short, overfertilizing kills your grass. It can also take a negative toll on the environment when fertilizer runs off into nearby bodies of water.

On the other hand, too little fertilizer will not deliver the results you want for your lawn, leaving you disappointed and feeling like you wasted your money and time. Underfertilizing prevents your lawn from flourishing. It is important to apply the ideal amount of fertilizer to your lawn to maximize its impact. Determining the right amount of fertilizer to apply is a delicate task requiring precision and expertise.

When should I see signs of the fertilizer program working?

You will not have to wait long to see the benefits of a fertilization program. It starts working shortly after it is applied to your lawn. Liquid fertilizer absorbs directly into the soil and begins to enhance grass color and blade strength within 1 to 2 days. Granular fertilizer releases more slowly into the soil, with the help of water, and begins to have an impact within 2 to 5 days. Long-term fertilizer helps your grass look its best for months to come.

Let us fertilize your lawn!

Now that you know all about the benefits and intricacies of fertilizer, it's time to give your lawn a boost by scheduling a fertilization service with Grow Pros Lawn Care, LLC! We are lawn care experts who will ensure that your yard receives the perfect blend of nutrients to optimize its health and appearance. We proudly serve Elkhart, Granger, South Bend, IN, and surrounding areas. Call us today at (574) 326-3526 to find out more!