Fertilizing Your Lawn For Fall
As the leaves begin to change and the temperatures start to drop, many homeowners start to think about preparing their lawns for the colder months ahead. One of the most important steps in fall lawn care is fertilizing, as this can help to promote strong root growth and prepare the grass for winter.
But with so many different fertilizers on the market, how do you know which one is right for your lawn? In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best fall fertilizers available and provide tips on how to choose the right one for your needs.
Why Fertilize in the Fall?
It’s time to fertilize now that fall has arrived. Why should you fertilize your grass in the fall? Fertilizing your lawn in the fall will strengthen its roots, giving them a solid foundation on which to flourish next spring and help you get through the winter. Fertilizing your yard in the fall is also a great preventative measure against insect infestation, which can easily ravage your lawn during the colder months of the year.
| Fertilizer | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food | Contains a high level of nitrogen for strong root growth | May require more frequent applications than slow-release fertilizers |
| Milorganite 0636 Organic Nitrogen Fertilizer | Made from organic materials, eco-friendly | May take longer to see results compared to synthetic fertilizers |
| Espoma Organic Fall Lawn Food | Can improve soil health and microbial activity | May not be as effective for quick growth or damaged areas |
| Safer Brand Ringer Lawn Restore | -Safe for pets and children and Contains no phosphates, safe for waterways and aquatic life | May be more expensive than some other organic fertilizers |
American Lawn’s Best Fall Fertilizers:
Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food
One of the most popular fall fertilizers on the market is Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food. This fertilizer is specially formulated to provide your lawn with the nutrients it needs to stay strong and healthy throughout the winter.
Some of the benefits of using Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food include:
- Contains a high level of nitrogen for strong root growth
- Helps to protect your lawn from harsh winter weather
- Provides a long-lasting, time-release feeding
Pros:
- Contains a high level of nitrogen to promote strong root growth
- Provides quick results
- Can be used on all types of grass
Cons:
- May require more frequent applications than slow-release fertilizers
- Can be more expensive than other options
Milorganite 0636 Organic Nitrogen Fertilizer
If you’re looking for an organic option, Milorganite 0636 Organic Nitrogen Fertilizer is a great choice. This fertilizer is made from heat-dried microbes and is designed to provide your lawn with the nutrients it needs without the use of synthetic chemicals.
Some of the benefits of using Milorganite 0636 Organic Nitrogen Fertilizer include:
- Contains slow-release nitrogen for long-lasting feeding
- Helps to promote healthy soil microbes
- Safe for use around children and pets
Pros:
- Made from organic materials, making it an eco-friendly choice
- Contains slow-release nitrogen, providing a steady stream of nutrients over time
- Can be used on all types of grass
Cons:
- May take longer to see results compared to synthetic fertilizers
- May not be as effective in promoting quick growth or repairing damaged areas
Espoma Organic Fall Lawn Food
Another great organic option is Espoma Organic Fall Lawn Food. This fertilizer is made from natural ingredients like feather meal, bone meal, and sulfate of potash, and is designed to provide your lawn with the nutrients it needs to thrive in the fall.
Some of the benefits of using Espoma Organic Fall Lawn Food include:
- Contains a blend of slow-release nitrogen, phosphate, and potash for balanced feeding
- Helps to promote strong root growth
- Safe for use around children and pets
Pros:
- Made from all-natural ingredients, making it an eco-friendly choice
- Contains slow-release nitrogen, providing a steady stream of nutrients over time
- Can help to improve soil health and microbial activity
- Can be used on all types of grass
- Safe for pets and children
Cons:
- May take longer to see results compared to synthetic fertilizers
- May not be as effective in promoting quick growth or repairing damaged areas as some other options
- May be more expensive than some other organic fertilizers on the market
Safer Brand Ringer Lawn Restore
For those looking for an eco-friendly option, Safer Brand Ringer Lawn Restore is a great choice. This fertilizer is made from a blend of natural ingredients like feather meal and soybean meal and is designed to provide your lawn with the nutrients it needs without harming the environment.
Some of the benefits of using Safer Brand Ringer Lawn Restore include:
- Contains a balanced blend of nutrients for healthy growth
- Helps to improve soil health
- Safe for use around children and pets
Pros:
- Made from all-natural ingredients, making it an eco-friendly choice
- Contains slow-release nitrogen, providing a steady stream of nutrients over time
- Can help to improve soil health and microbial activity
- Can be used on all types of grass
- Safe for pets and children
- Contains no phosphates, making it safe for waterways and aquatic life
Cons:
- May be more expensive than some other organic fertilizers on the market
- May take longer to see results compared to synthetic fertilizers
- May not be as effective in promoting quick growth or repairing damaged areas as some other options
How to Choose the Best Fall Fertilizer
When it comes to choosing the best fall fertilizer for your lawn, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
- Consider your soil type: Different fertilizers work better with different soil types, so it’s important to choose a fertilizer that is compatible with your soil.
- Look for slow-release options: Slow-release fertilizers are a great choice for fall, as they provide a steady stream of nutrients over time.
- Think about your lawn’s needs: Consider the specific needs of your lawn when choosing a fertilizer. For example, if you have a lot of foot traffic, you may want to choose a fertilizer that contains a high level of nitrogen to promote strong root growth.
- Check the nutrient content: Look for a fertilizer that contains the right balance of nutrients for your lawn. In general, you’ll want a fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as these are the three main nutrients that lawns need to thrive.
- Consider the time release: Some fertilizers release nutrients quickly, while others release them slowly over time. For fall fertilization, slow-release fertilizer is typically the best choice, as it will provide your lawn with a steady stream of nutrients throughout the colder months.
FAQs
Q: When is the best time to fertilize my lawn in the fall? A: It’s generally recommended to fertilize your lawn in the fall when the grass is still actively growing. This is typically around late September or early October, depending on where you live.
Q: Can I use the same fertilizer in the fall as I did in the spring? A: It’s best to use a fertilizer specifically formulated for fall in order to provide your lawn with the nutrients it needs to prepare for winter.
Q: How much fertilizer should I use on my lawn? A: The amount of fertilizer you’ll need depends on the size of your lawn and the specific product you’re using. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer label carefully.
Conclusion
By choosing the right fall fertilizer for your lawn, you can help to ensure that it stays healthy and green throughout the colder months. Whether you choose a traditional fertilizer like Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food or an organic option like Milorganite 0636 Organic Nitrogen Fertilizer, be sure to consider your lawn’s specific needs and choose a product that is compatible with your soil type. With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy a lush and healthy lawn all year round.
