How much to use?
Depending on the fertiliser you have selected, you should follow the directions included on the packaging. You will want to encourage top growth of your lawn without endangering the root growth below. Fertilisers will have 3 major nutrients : Nitrogen (N), Phosphorous (P), and Potassium (K) along with other nutrients.
These nutrients will have a number which will represent the mix of ingredients by percentage. Percentages of these key ingredients will appear in the N,P, K order respectably. You will also be able to see the complete analysis of the fertiliser specifications on the bag.
Grass needs Nitrogen (N) more than other nutrients due to its being an essential part of the chlorophyll molecule. Nitrogen (N) is what will cause your lawn to get that deep green colour. However, Nitrogen (N) will cause top growth at the expense of root growth.
Phosphorus (P) is needed in the energy transfer system of the plant and is needed in a lesser quantity than Nitrogen (N) and Potassium (K). Especially in an already established lawn. However Phosphorus (P) is essential to a newly planted lawn.
Finally, Potassium (K) will help make your lawn insect and disease resistant. Mainly aiding in cell wall development of the plant.
Choose a Slow Release mix
When looking at lawn fertilisers, you should look for a slow release fertiliser with a Nitrogen (N) mix. There are two types of Nitrogen (N) generally found in most fertilisers, organic and inorganic.
An established lawn of either Cool Season or Warm Season grasses will do well with a 3-1-2 or 4-1-2 mix of N, P, K. Among the analysis numbers that fit that ratio you will find: 12-4-8, 15-5-10, 16-4-8, 21-7-14 and 20-5-10.
Lawn Solutions Fertiliser has a NPK mixture of 16-0.7-4.
Read the label before use
When figuring out how much to use. First look at the recommended application rates on your bag. You will want to apply as little as possible to achieve good growth. As over fertilising your lawn will cause excessive leaf growth and weaken your lawn.
Measuring your space
Measuring your space is crucial for getting the correct application rate for your lawn. We recommend using a measuring tape to get an accurate measurement of your area.
Find how to measure your space in this handy article: https://www.jimboombaturf.com.au/turf-calculator/
How to apply fertiliser
You can apply fertiliser a variety of ways. These methods can vary from spreading by hand, using a handheld fertiliser spreader, battery spreader or broadcast spreader. We recommend using either a handheld spreader or a battery spreader. These will ensure you have an even coverage of your space and will be easier to measure out.
When all applied make sure to water in well immediately after application.
To get more advice on fertilising call our team on (07) 3114 8281. You can also to pop in and order in person at our sales office on 1/243 Bradman Street, Acacia Ridge. The office opens Monday to Friday 7am to 5pm and Saturday 7am to 12pm.
For more great turf, tips keep an eye on our website and all our social media channels.
