Granule Fertilizing Do’s and Don’ts

Are you a pro at spreading fertilizer? Check your knowledge of the do’s and don’ts of granule fertilizer applications.

Granule Fertilizing Do’s:

• Do read fertilizer labels.
• Do calibrate your spreader.
• Do use a hand-held spreader for lawns less than 2,500 sq. ft.
• Do use a drop spreader for lawns with lots of landscape beds or tight turns.
• Do use a broadcast spreader for medium to large lawns without tight turns.
• Do water the lawn 1-2 days before the application.
• Do fertilize the perimeter of the lawn first.
• Do spread fertilizer by walking back and forth in straight lines, slightly overlapping with each pass.
• Do turn off spreader when turning or stopping, excessive fertilizer could damage the turf.
• Do fertilize after aeration.
• Do store leftover fertilizer in a cool, dry place for later use.

Granule Fertilizing Don’ts:

• Don’t fill a spreader with fertilizer on the turf.
• Don’t leave fertilizer granules on sidewalks, driveways, and patios.
• Don’t fertilize during a drought.
• Don’t fertilize a brown or withered lawn.
• Don’t fertilize before a downpour.