Fertilizer Schedule
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If you want a lush, green, and healthy lawn, the secret isn’t just mowing and watering—it’s timing your fertilization correctly! We have a very nice climate in Central MA, where winters are long and summers can be unpredictable, cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, fescues, and perennial ryegrass need a specific nutrient schedule to thrive.
But don’t worry—we’ve made it super simple for you! Follow this easy-to-use fertilizer schedule, and your lawn will stay strong, vibrant, and weed-free all season long.
🌱 Spring (April - May) — Wake Your Lawn Up
Winter takes a toll on your lawn, so early spring is all about root development. A slow-release balanced fertilizer (like 20-5-10) gives your grass the nutrients it needs to bounce back from dormancy.
Best Time to Apply:
✔ When soil temperatures reach 55°F (usually when forsythia blooms or lilacs start budding).
✔ Water it in to help absorption.
🌿 Late Spring (May - June) — Strengthen Growth
As temperatures rise, your lawn enters its peak growth phase. A high-nitrogen fertilizer (like 30-0-10) will help thicken the grass and keep it looking lush.
Best Practices:
✔ Apply before summer heat kicks in.
✔ Avoid over-fertilizing—too much nitrogen in hot weather can stress your lawn.
✔ Want deeper green color? Add iron supplements for an extra boost.
🍂 Early Fall (September - October) — Recovery Mode
After a hot summer, your grass needs help recovering. This is the most important feeding of the year! A balanced or high-phosphorus fertilizer (like 24-4-12) strengthens roots and repairs summer damage.
Best Time to Apply:
✔ Around Labor Day when temperatures start cooling down.
✔ Water in thoroughly to ensure deep root absorption.
❄️ Late Fall (October - November) — Winter Protection
Your final feeding before winter is crucial. A winterizer fertilizer (like 32-0-10) helps your grass store nutrients for stronger spring growth.
Best Time to Apply:
✔ After the last mow of the season, but before the ground freezes.
✔ Helps your lawn green up faster in the spring.
💡 Bonus Lawn Care Tips:
✔ Skip summer fertilization (July - August) to prevent burning the lawn.
✔ Water within 24 hours after applying fertilizer for best results.
✔ Consider a soil test every 2-3 years to fine-tune your lawn’s nutrient needs.
✔ Go organic! Compost and slow-release fertilizers are great eco-friendly options.
📌 The Takeaway
By following this seasonal schedule, you’ll keep your lawn healthy, green, and resilient all year long—with minimal effort! Whether you’re a seasoned landscaper or just getting started, a well-fed lawn means fewer weeds, stronger roots, and less maintenance in the long run.