Applying Step 3 Lawn Fertilizer: Timing Matters
Caring for Your Summer Lawn: A Guide to Applying Step 3 Fertilizer
Keeping your lawn lush and green during the summer months can be a challenge, but with the right care and maintenance, it's achievable. One essential step in this process is applying Step 3 fertilizer, a balanced nutrient blend designed to promote healthy growth and colour.
Understanding Step 3 Fertilizer
Step 3 fertilizer typically contains a balanced ratio of the primary nutrients nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), often expressed as N-P-K numbers. For instance, a fertilizer labeled 16-16-16 indicates 16% N, 16% P, and 16% K, providing balanced nutrients essential for healthy lawn growth.
Some formulations like Scotts Green Max Lawn Food also include additional micronutrients such as 5% iron to enhance greening and lawn colour quickly within days of application. This product is suitable for use in spring, summer, or fall on any grass type.
Calculating and Applying the Fertilizer
To determine the amount of Step 3 fertilizer to use, follow this formula:
For example, if the soil test recommends 3 lbs of nitrogen per 1,000 sq.ft, and you use a 16-16-16 fertilizer, for a 1,200 sq.ft lawn, you would apply approximately 22.5 lbs of fertilizer.
When applying the fertilizer, start from one side of the lawn, spreading it evenly side to side while walking backward to avoid walking on the fertilized grass. Take care to cover irregularly shaped areas without overspraying any spots to prevent uneven growth or burning.
Watering and Maintenance
After applying Step 3 fertilizer, do not water immediately to avoid washing away nutrients. Allow the fertilizer to dry (2–4 hours), then water the lawn thoroughly to help nutrient absorption.
Remember to clean up and store any leftover fertilizer properly, away from pets and children. If using spray equipment, rinse thoroughly before storing.
Additional Tips
- Using a fertilizer with added iron can accelerate greening.
- It is often recommended to use products and spreading equipment designed for the specific fertilizer brand to ensure the correct rate and distribution.
- Some fertilizers are non-burning and promote soil vitality to strengthen root systems, helping lawns withstand heat, cold, and drought stresses effectively during summer.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a beautiful, green lawn throughout the summer months. Happy gardening!
[1] Lawn Fertiliser Calculator [2] Scotts Green Max Lawn Food [3] Scotts Lawn Care: Fertilising [4] Scotts Lawn Care: Fertilisers
Expanding on the lawn care guide, implementing home-and-garden practices such as using fertilizers can significantly improve the lifestyle aspect of enjoying a lush, green lawn. For instance, Scotts Green Max Lawn Food, a home-and-garden product, includes iron to boost the greening and color of your lawn within days of application. Moreover, understanding the nutrient balance within home-and-garden products like fertilizers is crucial for optimal lawn growth. For example, a fertilizer labeled 16-16-16 provides 16% of each primary nutrient - nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium – essential for healthy lawn growth.
