It may not look like it, but Fall is the best time for lawn care!

From NEWS CANADA

You know that using a fertilizer can promote a lush, healthy lawn all year, but do you know how best to apply it?

There’s no doubt that there’s some confusing advice out there when it comes to preparing your lawn for the long, cold days of winter ahead.

These simple steps will not only reward you with a lawn that looks and feels great in the spring, but you will be contributing to a greener world.

Like all living things, lawns need food to stay healthy.

To fertilize properly and ensure the fertilizer is used by the grass and not lost to waterways, sidewalks or otherwise, follow the 4Rs: the right source at the right rate, the right time and the right place.

Right source. Buy the right fertilizer for your lawn. Review your options at your local home and garden centre by reading the bag or testing your soil; this can be done by a professional or with a home kit. The three numbers on the bag indicate the ratio of three key nutrients included in all fertilizers: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, listed in this order. Meaning, if a bag reads 21-4-3 it contains 21 per cent nitrogen, four per cent phosphorus and three per cent potassium. Look for a fertilizer with higher nitrogen (N) and potassium (K), the first and last numbers on the bag. These are the nutrients that help promote a stronger root structure, disease resistance and hardiness to not only withstand drought in summer, but also to survive the winter and bounce back in spring.

If in doubt, just read the bag.

Right rate. Know the size of your lawn. Buy only what you need, follow the instructions on the bag and remember that more is not always better. Use a good-quality lawn fertilizer spreader or a handheld model to distribute the product evenly across your lawn.

Right time. Before winter rolls around, keep in mind that plant roots tend to go dormant in the driest parts of summer and in winter, when the ground is frozen. So, it’s important to focus on fertilizing in the spring and fall when plants need nutrients the most and avoid applying fertilizer if heavy rain is expected, or if the ground is frozen.

Right place. After fertilizing, sweep any stray fertilizer on driveways, patios and sidewalks back onto your lawn where it can do its job. Because too much phosphorus in the water can promote algae growth, select a phosphorus-free fertilizer if you live near a pond, lake or stream. Take care to prevent fertilizer from running off into sewers.

After you are done fertilizing, store any leftover fertilizer sealed in its original container in a dry place for use next season or share by giving it to a neighbour or relative, or donating it to a community group.

More info at greenerworld.ca.